A practical, high-end testing environment for modern network infrastructures and cybersecurity. From Wi-Fi 7 and FTTH fiber optics to enterprise routing, penetration testing, and LoRa IoT scenarios, NEST simulates real-world IT environments under laboratory conditions.
The laboratory is available for use by:
- Students: For practice-oriented instruction, thesis projects, and hands-on labs using state-of-the-art technology.
- Companies & Partners: For joint research projects, infrastructure testing, and continuing education.
- Researchers: As a flexible testing environment for IT security analyses and new network concepts.
The aim of the laboratory team is to provide hands-on training for highly qualified cybersecurity and network experts, as well as to facilitate the direct transfer of knowledge to the business world. By integrating Cisco NetAcad standards and real-world penetration testing scenarios, we directly prepare students for the complex demands of modern corporate networks.
Cooperation Opportunities
The NEST Graz – Network & Security Technology Lab sees itself as an interface to industry and a strong partner for the regional economy. We offer companies customized collaboration models: from joint research and development projects to security assessments and testing of network scenarios, as well as hands-on workshops for IT teams. Partners leverage our expertise and lab infrastructure to thoroughly test their own network concepts and security architectures before deploying them in a live environment.
Laboratory Equipment
The NEST Graz – Network & Security Technology Lab features a comprehensive, high-end infrastructure for state-of-the-art network and security scenarios:
- Cisco NetAcad Lab: Cisco hardware for hands-on routing and switching.
- Network & Fiber-Optic Infrastructure: Structured cabling, optical networks, and FTTH equipment.
- Wireless & IoT: Wi-Fi up to Generation 7 (Ubiquiti UniFi) as well as Raspberry Pis, including LoRa Hat, for Internet of Things applications.
- Cybersecurity & Firewalls: Enterprise and SoHo hardware, as well as software firewalls for securing complex networks.
- Virtualization & Penetration Testing: Professional tools and probes for security analysis (including Kali Linux, Alfa Wi-Fi adapters, Wi-Fi Pineapple, TP and optical network taps..).