A mobile cybersecurity lab, built by students from SCTCC’s Cybersecurity and Network Administration program, is bringing hands-on learning to area high schools.
Funded by the Cyber Service Academy grant, awarded to St. Cloud State and SCTCC by the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Security Agency (NSA), this innovative lab is designed to demystify complex cybersecurity concepts for aspiring young tech professionals.
The mobile lab includes enterprise-level network infrastructure, featuring a Cisco 3421 Integrated Services Router (ISR), a Cisco Catalyst 1000 switch, two Wireless Access Points (WAPs), and an HP ProLiant server. This setup allows for the demonstration of real-world network scenarios, giving students a tangible understanding of cybersecurity principles. The server, currently hosting a webpage and other common network services, serves as a focal point for interactive learning.
The mobile lab recently made its debut at Wayzata High School when SCTCC instructor Brian Volkmuth and Erich Rice of SCSU brought it to their Cybersecurity classroom.
During the visit, 26 cybersecurity students were able to explore real-time network information and view the configuration of an enterprise-level switch through a web browser. Direct interaction with professional-grade equipment provides invaluable insights into network administration and security.
"Seeing the students engage with the equipment and grasp the concepts in real-time was incredibly rewarding," said Volkmuth. "This lab bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, which is crucial for their development."
Plans are underway to expand the lab's capabilities, including interactive elements such as web pages designed for security testing, packet sniffing tools, and other services that allow for deeper exploration of cybersecurity practices. These enhancements will provide even more opportunities for students to participate in learning and problem-solving.
This mobile cybersecurity lab represents a significant investment in the future of cybersecurity education, providing high school students with opportunities to explore and engage in this critical field. By bringing enterprise-level technology directly into high school classrooms, SCTCC and SCSU are cultivating the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.