Hacking networks with Python (FREE CCNA 200-301 Course 2024)

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on hacking networks using Python, specifically through techniques related to the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP). It is designed for those preparing for the CCNA 200-301 certification, offering practical demonstrations and insights into network security. The methods discussed are for educational purposes only.

Step 1: Understanding Root Guard and BPDU Guard

• Root Guard is a feature that prevents external switches from becoming the root bridge of your VLAN.
• BPDU Guard protects the network by disabling ports that receive Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs) on ports configured as edge ports.

Practical Advice

• Familiarize yourself with how switches determine the root bridge through Bridge ID.
• Use Root Guard to maintain control over your network topology.

Step 2: Setting Up the Environment

1. Access the Lab:

   • Visit the free lab tutorial here.

2. Install Required Tools:

   • Ensure you have Python and Scapy installed on your machine.
   • For Linux users, using a distribution like Kali Linux can be beneficial.

Practical Advice

• Update your Python packages to the latest versions to avoid compatibility issues.

Step 3: Hacking the Root Bridge

1. Download the Scripts:

   • Access the GitHub repository for the scripts used in the video:
     • Spanning Tree Root Attack
     • Spanning Tree DOS Attack

2. Run the Scripts:

   • Open your terminal and run the script to execute a root bridge attack.
   • Example command:

     sudo python spanning-tree-root-attack.py
     

Common Pitfalls

• Ensure you have the correct permissions to run these scripts.
• Be aware of the ethical implications and legal boundaries when testing network security.

Step 4: Enabling Root Guard

1. Access Your Switch:

   • Use the console or SSH to connect to your switch.

2. Configure Root Guard:

   • Enter configuration mode and apply Root Guard to the relevant interfaces.
   • Example command:

     interface [interface_id]
     spanning-tree guard root
     

Practical Advice

• Monitor the interface status to ensure Root Guard is functioning correctly.

Step 5: Demonstrating Switch Advertising as the New Root

1. Run the Scapy Script:

   • Execute the appropriate script to simulate a switch advertising itself as the new root bridge.
   • Example command:

     sudo python spanning-tree-dos-root-port.py
     

2. Observe Network Behavior:

   • Check the switch logs to see how it reacts to the simulated attack.

Practical Advice

• Use packet capturing tools like Wireshark to analyze the traffic during the demonstration.

Step 6: Enabling BPDU Guard

1. Configure BPDU Guard:
   • Return to your switch configuration mode.
   • Apply BPDU Guard to the edge interfaces.
   • Example command:

     interface [interface_id]
     spanning-tree bpduguard enable
     

Practical Advice

• Regularly review your network topology to ensure all configurations are effective.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned about key network security concepts such as Root Guard and BPDU Guard, and how to implement them using Python scripts. You were guided through the process of hacking the root bridge, configuring security features, and understanding practical applications of these skills. As a next step, consider exploring more advanced network security techniques and continue practicing in a safe lab environment.