Multi-Branch Office Network Setup

Overview

This project involves setting up a scalable network for two office branches located in different cities using Cisco Packet Tracer. The setup includes subnetting, static routing, and Port Address Translation (PAT) to ensure seamless inter-branch communication and secure internet access.

Authors

• Somnath Shaw
• Debasis Patra

Network Configuration Details

1. Subnetting

• Each branch is assigned a unique subnet.
• The subnets are structured to optimize IP address allocation.
• The subnet mask is configured to accommodate the required number of hosts per branch.

2. Static Routing

• Static routes are manually configured to establish communication between the two branches.
• Each branch router has static routes pointing to the opposite branch network via a WAN link.

3. Port Address Translation (PAT)

• PAT is implemented to allow multiple devices within a branch to access the internet using a single public IP address.
• The router is configured to translate private IP addresses to a single public IP dynamically.

Implementation Steps

Step 1: Network Topology Setup

• Add required network devices (routers, switches, PCs) in Cisco Packet Tracer.
• Assign appropriate IP addresses to each device according to the subnetting scheme.

Step 2: Configuring Static Routing

On Branch 1 Router:

ip route [Branch2_Network] [Subnet_Mask] [Next_Hop_IP]

On Branch 2 Router:

ip route [Branch1_Network] [Subnet_Mask] [Next_Hop_IP]

Step 3: Enabling PAT

On the router connected to the internet:

access-list 1 permit [Internal_Network] [Wildcard_Mask]
ip nat inside source list 1 interface [Public_Interface] overload
interface [Internal_Interface]
 ip nat inside
interface [Public_Interface]
 ip nat outside

Step 4: Testing Connectivity

• Use the ping command to verify communication between branches.
• Test external internet access from internal devices.

Tools Used

• Cisco Packet Tracer

Conclusion

This project successfully establishes a multi-branch office network with inter-branch communication and secure internet access using subnetting, static routing, and PAT. The setup ensures efficient and scalable network management for business operations.