Now that you understand the workings of cables, hubs, switches, frames, and packets, let us implement the Local Area Network(LAN) together.
You go to your local hardware store and purchase some cables, connectors, and switches. You return home and use cables and connectors to connect your devices to the switch. And your LAN is now operational. The switch is a simple plug-and-play device. To set up a network, you do not need to configure the switch. At least not for the time being.
Q: I'm strapped for cash. I can't afford to buy all of the hardware right now. Is there another way for me to put the concepts I've learned in this course into practice? Is there some low-cost simulation software?
Excellent question. There are quite a few. We will demonstrate network implementations using Cisco Packet Tracer in this course.
What Is Cisco Packet Tracer?
Cisco Packet Tracer is a powerful network simulation and visualization tool from Cisco that allows you to practice your networking, IoT, and cybersecurity skills. The virtual learning environment is useful for learning courses, professional training, and work planning, among other things.
This software, as the name implies, is created by Cisco and can be used to practice Networking-related labs virtually. Packet tracer is an excellent tool for gaining hands-on experience with Cisco Routers, Switches, HUB, and end devices such as PC, Laptops, Servers, and many others.
Students or working professionals interested in obtaining CCNA certification or studying networking should definitely look into this fantastic software.
Freshers who are new to networking can use the instructions in this article to download, install, and use Cisco Packet Tracer.
According to Wikipedia
Cisco Systems' Packet Tracer is a cross-platform visual simulation tool that allows users to create network topologies and emulate modern computer networks. Using a simulated command line interface, users can simulate the configuration of Cisco routers and switches. Packet Tracer has a drag-and-drop user interface that allows users to add and remove simulated network devices as needed. The software is primarily aimed at Cisco Networking Academy students as an educational tool to assist them in learning fundamental CCNA concepts. Students enrolled in a CCNA Academy program could previously freely download and use the tool for educational purposes.
You can also use it for testing purposes. Assume you want to deploy a change in your production network. You can use a packet tracer to first test the required changes and then deploy those changes into production if everything is working properly.
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Where Can I Get Cisco Packet Tracer?
Cisco Packet Tracer is available to all Cisco Networking Academy® instructors, students, and alumni for free.
Cisco Packet Tracer can be downloaded directly from Cisco’s official website, Cisco Networking Academy. Click here, to go to the Cisco Packet Tracer free download page. There will be a sign-up option for the Introduction to Packet Tracer English course. To enroll in the course, click sign up and fill out the form.
If you already have an account, log in and enroll in the course; otherwise, create an account and register.
To download the software from the NetAcad.com learning environment, please follow these steps:
- Log in to Cisco NetAcad.com
- Select Resources > Download Packet Tracer
You can also sign up for SkillsForAll.com’s free “Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer” course to learn how to download, install, and get started!
The “Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer” course will walk you through installing Cisco Packet Tracer as well as getting started with Cisco Packet Tracer.
The Packet Tracer user interface will be demonstrated in this course. To get the most out of this course, please be familiar with how to use Cisco Packet Tracer properly.
Q: Will using a packet tracer help me at work, or is it just for the exam?
For all simulators, the answer is Yes. Simulators aid in the understanding of key concepts for later practical application in the real world. They can be thought of as a bridge between theory and practice, especially for large-scale systems where real hardware would be too expensive to experiment with. A successful experiment on simulators increases the likelihood of a successful outcome in the real world.
Concerning your specific question, nothing is taught in any courseware that is not worth learning. So, go ahead and study it thoroughly; it will undoubtedly help you in the exam and later on.
Note: Packet tracer has limited features; for more advanced features, use GNS3 network simulator. It’s a fantastic tool.
GNS3 is the next level of Packet Tracer, with real IOS images loaded into simulated Routers and Switches. That will cause the actual and complete commands to run, even in a simulated environment where breaking a router will not bring down the entire network.
