EVE-NG Networks | Clouds Explained

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide on using networks and clouds in EVE-NG for lab environments. It explains the purpose of virtual networks, including bridge, net, and host-only types, and demonstrates how to connect devices such as VPCs, routers, or Linux servers. The tutorial covers cloud-to-adapter mapping, IP range verification using DHCP, and accessing devices from the host machine or the internet. Viewers learn practical techniques to assign IPs, configure lab setups, and ensure connectivity, making it an essential walkthrough for efficiently managing EVE-NG labs and understanding how different network types serve internal communication and internet access.

Takeaways

• 😀 Networks or clouds in EVE-NG allow virtual lab devices to communicate internally and externally.
• 😀 Bridge networks function as unmanaged switches or hubs, primarily for internal connectivity and optionally internet access.
• 😀 Internal and private networks are available only in the Professional Edition for isolated internal lab use.
• 😀 Management clouds (Cloud0, Cloud1, Cloud2, etc.) correspond to physical network adapters on the host machine.
• 😀 Each cloud type has a specific purpose: Bridge and Net provide internet, Host-only allows access from the host without internet.
• 😀 DHCP or static IPs can be used within the cloud's IP range to configure devices.
• 😀 The virtual network editor in EVE-NG shows adapter types and allows verification of IP ranges.
• 😀 Cloud0 always maps to the first adapter, Cloud1 to the second, and Cloud2 to the third, defining network ranges.
• 😀 You can access devices like Linux servers or routers through the cloud IPs from the host machine, depending on cloud type.
• 😀 For lab setups, segmenting devices across different clouds allows controlled connectivity and proper internet access.
• 😀 Cloud ranges and connectivity can be verified quickly by connecting VPCs and checking assigned IPs via DHCP.
• 😀 Icons and names of clouds can be customized in EVE-NG to organize lab environments effectively.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of networks or clouds in EVENG?

Networks or clouds in EVENG provide virtual connections that allow lab devices such as firewalls, routers, and switches to communicate with each other or with the outside world, including the internet.

What is a Bridge cloud in EVENG and when should it be used?

A Bridge cloud acts like an unmanaged switch or hub, connecting multiple devices internally and to the host network. It is used for internal connectivity and can also provide internet access.

What is the difference between Bridge, NET, and Host-only adapters?

Bridge connects devices to the host network and provides internet access. NET provides internet access but uses a separate IP range. Host-only is used for connecting devices to the host machine without providing internet access.

How does EVENG determine the IP range for each cloud?

The IP range for each cloud is determined by the network adapter settings in EVENG. For example, the first adapter (Bridge) will use the host network's range, NET will use a configured subnet (e.g., 192.168.14.x), and Host-only will use a separate range (e.g., 192.168.159.x).

What are Management Clouds (Cloud0–Cloud9) used for?

Management Clouds provide connectivity based on the number of adapters in EVENG. They can be used to assign IP addresses to devices, enable internet access (for Bridge and NET), and connect devices to the host machine.

How can you verify the IP range of a cloud in EVENG?

You can verify a cloud's IP range by connecting a device (such as a VPC) to the cloud, starting it, and checking the IP address assigned via DHCP or statically assigned within the cloud's subnet.

Which clouds provide internet access in EVENG?

Both the Bridge and NET clouds provide internet access. Host-only clouds do not provide internet access but allow communication between devices and the host.

How can a device connected to a Host-only cloud be accessed from the host machine?

A device on a Host-only cloud can be accessed from the host machine by using the device's assigned IP address. This is useful for accessing servers, routers, firewalls, or virtual machines without providing them internet access.

What steps are involved in connecting devices to a cloud in EVENG?

Steps include: right-clicking to add a cloud, selecting the type (Bridge, NET, Host-only), naming the cloud, optionally selecting an icon, connecting devices to the cloud, starting the devices, and verifying IP assignment.

Why is it important to know the adapter order in EVENG?

The adapter order determines which cloud corresponds to which network adapter, affecting IP ranges, connectivity, and internet access. Knowing the order ensures proper configuration and communication between devices.

How can EVENG clouds be used in lab setups?

EVENG clouds can be used in lab setups to simulate real network environments, provide internet access where needed, and allow devices to communicate internally or with the host machine. They can be configured for DHCP or static IPs depending on lab requirements.

What is the role of DHCP in EVENG clouds?

DHCP in EVENG clouds automatically assigns IP addresses to connected devices within the cloud's IP range, simplifying setup and ensuring proper connectivity without manually configuring IP addresses.