Multifaceted Cybersecurity Analysis: Reconnaissance, Exploitation and Mitigation in a Controlled Network Environment

This report details a network penetration test in a simulated environment using GNS3, focusing on the configuration of routers, switches, and hosts. The project successfully identified and exploited network vulnerabilities, including FTP access, misconfigured sudo permissions, and SMB protocol weaknesses. The penetration testing process utilized tools like fping and nmap for reconnaissance and vulnerability scanning, revealing the importance of device configurations in network security. The project concluded with mitigation strategies, emphasizing the need for secure access, robust password policies, and security controls. The experience underscored the significance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. The project demonstrated the value of regular penetration testing in identifying and addressing network vulnerabilities, reinforcing the importance of proactive security measures in an enterprise environment