virtual test network

Hi guys

While I am studying network books at home, I would like to create a virtual test network in my computer where I can do all sort of networking practices and have a better understanding of cyber attacks, network security, etc. So, is it possible to create such environment with at least two users (more better) where one will act as the attacker and the other one as the target. I have only one computer with two internal and one external hdd.

Can I use vmware or virtualbox for that?

Thank you in advance.

 

indeed you could use vmware, vmlite or virtualbox, that if your hardware is upto it.as attacker you may deploy backtrack, even available as pre-configured appliance for vmware

else there a a few documents on the inet about the subject.

 

Thanks for the hand, appreciated.

 

I don't think VB or VMWare would be the best choice for network simulation. You can install Untangle or Smoothwall into a VM but not Cisco IOS.
DD-WRT has a x86 version that can be installed in a VM.
Maybe try GNS3, a virtualization simulator for networks.
It is more enterprise oriented and I haven't determined if you can input consumer router OS's into the simulations. I have checked their forums and no clear answer.
[thread]287208[/thread]

 

valid input/point. that would be way to go for the pro, to emulate enterprise routers

here are live CDs

 

IPCop Virtual Firewall/Router Appliance for VMware

open source virtual router (as alternative to Cisco) for VMware ESX

FREESCO - another open source free virtual router for VMware

 

Nice info indeed, thanks guys.