\subsection*{Practice Week 2: Network Types and Basic Topologies}

\begin{objetivopractica}
The student will install GNS3 and explore different network types and topologies by creating simple network diagrams. This practice will demonstrate how networks are classified by geographical coverage and how device arrangement affects network characteristics and performance.
\end{objetivopractica}

The practice starts with downloading and installing GNS3 from the official website. The student selects the free community edition and follows the installation process, which includes both the main application and virtual machine components. The installer may request permissions for network drivers and virtualization software.

\definicion{GNS3}{A network simulation software that allows creation of virtual network topologies for learning purposes}

After installation, the student opens GNS3 and completes the initial setup wizard. They accept default settings for their first experience and create a new project named "Network Types and Topologies Demo." The GNS3 interface shows a device library on the left and a workspace area in the center.

% \includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{figuras/captura02_gns3_interface.png}

To demonstrate network types, the student creates three separate sections in their workspace. For the \sigla{LAN}{Local Area Network} demonstration, they drag several PC icons and arrange them close together, then add a switch device and connect all PCs to this central switch using cable connections.

\definicion{LAN}{A Local Area Network that connects devices within a limited geographical area like a building or campus}

The student labels this network section as "Office LAN" and observes how all devices connect through one central point. This arrangement shows the typical characteristics of local networks: high speed connections, single administrative control, and devices located in close proximity.

For the \sigla{MAN}{Metropolitan Area Network} demonstration, the student creates multiple LAN sections in different areas of the workspace. They connect these LANs using router devices, representing connections between different buildings or campuses within the same city.

\definicion{MAN}{A Metropolitan Area Network that connects multiple locations within a city or metropolitan area}

The \sigla{WAN}{Wide Area Network} example involves connecting the metropolitan networks through additional routers that represent long-distance connections. The student draws these connections with different line styles to show they represent links between cities or countries.

% \href{https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXXXXXX}{Network types and topologies tutorial}

\definicion{WAN}{A Wide Area Network that connects devices and networks across large geographical distances}

The practice continues with topology demonstrations. The student creates a new workspace section for topology examples. First, they implement a bus topology by placing four PCs in a horizontal line and connecting them using a single cable that runs through all computers.

\definicion{bus topology}{A network arrangement where all devices connect to a single shared communication line}

For the star topology demonstration, the student places a switch device in the center and arranges four PCs around it. Each PC connects directly to the central switch, creating a star-like pattern that provides better fault tolerance than the bus arrangement.

\definicion{star topology}{A network arrangement where all devices connect to a central hub or switch}

% \includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{figuras/captura02_topologies.png}

The ring topology requires the student to arrange four PCs in a circular pattern and connect each device to its two neighbors, forming a closed loop. The student ensures that each PC has exactly two connections, creating a ring where data travels in one direction.

\definicion{ring topology}{A network arrangement where devices connect in a circular pattern, forming a closed loop}

For the mesh topology, the student creates the most complex configuration by connecting each of four PCs to every other PC in the network. This arrangement requires six cables to provide direct connections between all possible device pairs.

\definicion{mesh topology}{A network arrangement where each device connects directly to every other device}

The student documents the differences between network types by counting the number of intermediate devices between endpoints and comparing coverage areas, typical speeds, and administrative complexity. They also analyze topology trade-offs by examining factors such as fault tolerance, cost, performance, and complexity.

The practice concludes with the student saving their comprehensive network demonstration and creating a summary that compares network types and topologies. They understand how geographical scope and device arrangement influence network design decisions.

\begin{rubrica}
The student must submit a report containing clear evidence of completing the practice. The document should include screenshots, explanations of observations, and reflection on the learning achieved. The submission must demonstrate that the student understood the concept and was able to apply it with the indicated software.
\end{rubrica}

\subsection*{Suggested Report Format}

\textbf{Title:} Practice Week 2 - Network Types and Basic Topologies \\
\textbf{Objective:} Written by the student according to what they understood. \\
\textbf{Development:} Clear narration of actions performed. \\
\textbf{Evidence:} Screenshots or other data obtained. \\
\textbf{Conclusions:} Technical reflection on what was learned. \\
\textbf{Personal Opinion:} Student's free opinion about the usefulness or difficulty of the practice.