Peningkatan Kompetensi Jaringan Komputer Siswa SMK melalui Pengenalan Subnetting VLSM dan Routing Berbasis Simulasi Jaringan

Abstract

Computer network learning in Vocational High Schools (SMK), particularly in the Computer and Network Engineering (TKJ) program, requires a balance between conceptual understanding and practical skills. However, subnetting using Variable Length Subnet Mask (VLSM) and routing concepts are often perceived as difficult by students due to their abstract nature and the need for logical and mathematical analysis. This community service activity aims to improve the computer networking competence of SMK students through the introduction of VLSM subnetting and routing based on network simulation. The activity was conducted on December 1, 2025, at the Computer Laboratory of SMK Bina Sriwijaya Palembang and involved 16 tenth-grade TKJ students. The implementation method included pre-activity preparation, interactive material delivery, demonstrations, and hands-on network simulation practice using Cisco Packet Tracer. To evaluate the effectiveness of the activity, pretest and posttest assessments were administered. The evaluation results indicate a significant improvement in students’ understanding, as reflected by an increase in scores from a range of 20–70 in the pretest to 79–100 in the posttest. These findings demonstrate that network simulation–based learning effectively enhances students’ comprehension of VLSM subnetting and routing compared to theory-based instruction alone. This activity provides a tangible contribution to strengthening the fundamental computer networking competencies of SMK students and supports their readiness for advanced learning and the demands of the information technology industry.