Why did the FBI create a fake city?

The Cyber Range is designed for cybersecurity training, simulating real-world attack scenarios on infrastructure like hospitals, power grids, and corporate systems without risking external networks.

What facilities are recreated in the training center?

The complex includes residential buildings, a hospital, gas station, store, and a data center with 200 servers. All systems mimic real-world setups but are fully isolated from the internet.

Can malware escape the complex?

No, all systems in the Cyber Range are disconnected from external networks, preventing malware or other threats from leaking outside the training grounds.

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Security

FBI Creates Fake City for Cybersecurity Training

June 15, 2026

Photo: The Verge

Quick answer

The FBI has unveiled a Cyber Range training complex in Alabama—a fake city designed to simulate cyberattacks on critical infrastructure for cybersecurity expert training.

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has commissioned a unique Cyber Range training complex in Huntsville, Alabama. This specialized facility simulates a full-scale city to train cybersecurity experts in responding to cyber threats.

Covering over 22,000 square meters, the complex replicates urban infrastructure, including residential buildings, a medical facility, gas station, retail store, and a small data center with 200 servers. All systems are networked like real-world setups but are fully isolated from the internet to prevent malware leaks.

Experts practice investigating cyberattacks, including breaches of automotive infotainment systems, corporate networks, and medical equipment. The facility also simulates attacks on power grids and virus spread via home networks. This controlled environment allows for studying cyber threat impacts without real-world risks.

While the center opened last year, the FBI only recently unveiled it publicly by releasing a video tour. Such facilities are becoming essential for training professionals amid rising digital threats.

Common questions

Why did the FBI create a fake city?: The Cyber Range is designed for cybersecurity training, simulating real-world attack scenarios on infrastructure like hospitals, power grids, and corporate systems without risking external networks.
What facilities are recreated in the training center?: The complex includes residential buildings, a hospital, gas station, store, and a data center with 200 servers. All systems mimic real-world setups but are fully isolated from the internet.
Can malware escape the complex?: No, all systems in the Cyber Range are disconnected from external networks, preventing malware or other threats from leaking outside the training grounds.

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