OSPF Implementation and ACL Application for Local Network Security Management

Brawijaya University is actively advancing vocational network education through its currently ongoing community engagement program, “Implementation of OSPF in Local Networks and Application of ACLs in Network Security Management.” Led by Reza Andria Siregar, Aswin Suharsono, and Achmad Basuki, the program aims to improve the networking knowledge and practical skills of Computer and Network Engineering students at a partner vocational school in Malang.

Building Efficient and Secure Local Networks

As computer networks grow more complex, static routing becomes increasingly difficult to manage because administrators must manually update routes whenever the network topology changes. OSPF addresses this limitation by allowing routers to exchange routing information and automatically calculate the most efficient path.

However, reliable connectivity alone does not guarantee network security. Without access control, users or devices may reach network segments and services that should be restricted. ACLs complement OSPF by allowing administrators to permit or deny traffic based on source addresses, destination addresses, protocols, and service ports.

By combining both technologies, students learn that effective network management involves not only connecting devices but also controlling how network resources can be accessed.

Key Training Components

Dynamic Routing with OSPF

Participants will learn the fundamentals of dynamic routing and how OSPF uses network topology information to select the shortest available path. They will configure OSPF on simulated routers, verify routing tables, test connectivity between networks, and observe how routing responds to topology changes.

This section helps students understand how dynamic routing improves network efficiency, scalability, and resilience compared with manually configured static routes.

Network Security with ACLs

The training also introduces standard and extended ACLs as basic mechanisms for network traffic control. Participants will create rules that allow or block communication based on specific network requirements.

Training scenarios may include restricting student networks from accessing administrative networks, limiting access to selected servers, and permitting only specific protocols or services. These exercises demonstrate how incorrect ACL placement or configuration can affect network connectivity.

Hands-On Network Simulation

The program combines interactive lectures, demonstrations, direct configuration practice, case studies, and troubleshooting exercises. Cisco Packet Tracer and/or GNS3 will be used so participants can build network topologies and test configurations without relying entirely on physical networking equipment.

Approximately 50 participants are expected to take part. They will receive a learning module containing OSPF and ACL concepts, configuration instructions, implementation examples, case studies, and evaluation exercises.

Measuring Training Effectiveness

The participants’ progress will be evaluated through pre-tests, post-tests, practical observation, and configuration assignments. The evaluation will assess their ability to configure OSPF, apply ACL rules, test network connectivity, and troubleshoot routing or access-control problems.

Pre-test and post-test results may also be compared statistically to determine whether the program produces a significant improvement in participants’ understanding.

Preparing Students for Networking Careers

Running from May to October 2026, the program includes preparation, module development, direct training, evaluation, documentation, and reporting. The main training session is planned for October 2026.

Through this initiative, participants are expected to gain practical skills that can support classroom learning, laboratory activities, networking certifications, and preparation for professional careers. The program also strengthens collaboration between Brawijaya University and vocational education institutions in developing students who are better prepared for the demands of computer networking and cybersecurity.