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Cisco-Based Enterprise Network Topologies

Gianfranco La Rocca�John Ciaramello�Ezequiel Leon Jr�Guiliano Cuna�Sebastian Neyra

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Cisco-Based Enterprise Network Simulation using CML

  • Purpose: Simulate enterprise-grade Layer 2 and Layer 3 environments
  • Tools: Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) and Ansible
  • Motivation: Reduce complexity and risk in physical setups using a visual, repeatable, and scalable lab platform
  • Outcomes: Hands-on validation of protocols like MST, HSRP, OSPF, BGP, and automation workflows

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Lab 1 – Layer 2 Redundancy and High Availability

Topology:

  • 2-Tier Campus Core with Distribution and Access layers

Features:

  • VLANs, Trunking, SVIs
  • MST (Multiple Spanning Tree)
  • EtherChannel (LACP)
  • HSRP for default gateway redundancy

Verification:

  • Failover tested via HSRP state changes
  • Loop prevention confirmed with MSTP

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Lab 2: Multi-Protocol Routing and Edge Connectivity

Focus:

  • Compare behavior of OSPF, EIGRP, and eBGP

Configured Features:

  • Route redistribution
  • PBR (Policy-Based Routing)
  • NAT and PAT

Validation:

  • End-to-end connectivity tested with ping and traceroute
  • Verified failover paths and protocol preference

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Lab 3: Configuration Automation via Ansible

Goal: Use Ansible to automate switch/router config tasks

Setup:

  • Created inventory of Cisco IOS devices in CML
  • Developed playbooks for VLANs, interfaces, routing

Execution:

  • Pushes config to live CML devices
  • Verified outputs before and after using Ansible logs

Benefit:

  • Fast, repeatable, and scalable deployment approach

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Key Takeaways and Future Use

  • CML provided a reliable platform to design, test, and verify enterprise-grade networks
  • Simulated real-world features: MST, HSRP, routing protocols, NAT, and Ansible automation
  • Reduced setup time and complexity while improving understanding of failover and protocol interaction
  • Automation via Ansible proved scalable and time-efficient