Routing Protocol

A cybersecurity puzzle game where you design network routes to deliver a data packet safely from client to server. You must avoid hacker sniffing zones, collect encryption keys, and obtain authentication tokens – all while obeying the rules of a zero‑trust network. The game simulates real‑world network security concepts in a minimalist, digi‑punk interface.

How to Play

• Draw a path – Tap/click the client tile, then drag through adjacent tiles (up, down, left, right) to reach the server.
• Follow the rules – You cannot cross walls or step directly on hackers.
• Hackers have a 3×3 sniff zone; entering it without a good encryption key will expose your data and fail the mission.
• Collect green encryption keys (good) to protect your payload.
• Red keys (bad) will encrypt your data with a honeypot key – safe‑looking but the hacker can still break it.
• In later levels, you must also grab an auth token (mTLS), or the server will drop your packet.
• Execute – Once the path connects client-to-server, hit Execute Route and watch the packet travel step‑by‑step, checking each tile.
• Learn from failure – The terminal log explains exactly why a route failed, teaching you how to improve.

• Mental & Psychological Skills Improved Strategic Planning & Routing – You learn to think ahead, plan multi‑step paths, and anticipate risks.
• Logical Reasoning – Understanding the order of operations (encrypt before crossing a sniff zone, authenticate before reaching the server) strengthens logical sequencing.
• Problem‑Solving under Constraints – Walls, multiple hackers, and limited paths force you to find creative solutions – like backtracking or taking longer, safer routes.
• Cybersecurity Intuition – You internalise key security concepts (AES‑256, mTLS, honeypots, zero‑trust architecture) in a practical, visual way.
• Resilience & Trial‑Error Learning – Failing is part of the game; each attempt improves your understanding and builds a growth mindset.
• Attention to Detail – Spotting fake keys vs. real keys trains focused observation.
• Working Memory – You must hold the state of your packet (encrypted? authenticated?) in mind while building the path.
• The game transforms abstract network security into a tangible, addictive puzzle – making you a sharper thinker in both tech and everyday logic.