This paper describes a virtualized environment designed to conduct comprehensive experiments involving peer-to-peer networks and information security algorithms. The architecture is based on integrating the VMware hypervisor with the EVE-NG network device emulation platform, providing flexible resource allocation and realistic topology simulation. A MikroTik router serves as the central node, enabling a “star-shaped” scheme of interaction among virtual machines running various operating systems (Windows 7, 10, 11, Linux Debian). The chosen configuration simplifies testing the multiple initial connections and multi-level cryptography algorithms, ensures stable routing, and supports further automation of software installation using Bash or PowerShell scripts.

Keywords: information security, virtualized environment, multiple initial connections, peer-to-peer network, virtual private network