This is a lab for developement of simulations. Also for me to learn in-depth about Linux/FreeBSD, Linux security, network security tools, etc w/o actually having to be connected to the internet. I support a group of engineers who may need various network setups to simulate environments for development of equipment. This is to help create test scenarios to see if different approaches would work on the connectivity side.
There will be no actual internet connection after installation and updating of the boxes initially.
{WS} = Workstation - One will be a linux box, one a XP box
{Router/NAT/DHCP} = D-Link DI-704P Router/Switch
{DNS} = a adhoc DNS server to allow the networks to talk to each other. I may install two different eth NICs in it so they both use a different IP for each side.
{FW} = Linux Firewall - currently looking at Firewall Builder, Sentry, Shorewall, m0n0wall, haven't decided on a firm firewall approach yet. I want a graphical interface if at all possible. Obviously the highest security that I can achieve as well.
Linux flavors = I'm looking at RH9 and/or FreeBSD currently as my Linux/Unix OSes.
The Firewalls only need to filter, no DHCP is needed from them.
I'll also be looking at hacking tools to test the firewalls and learn methods to protect against.
This will be my "education" through head-to-brickwall method of learning the ins/outs of this, to me, new operating system and many of it's facets - Desktop, DNS, FW, etc...