On the other hand, GNS3 is an emulation tool. These reasons make Packet Tracer useful for specific cases such as the CCNA exam it cannot be used to effectively prepare for higher-level exams, such as CCNP. In some cases, it even behaves slightly differently than a real device. When you use Packet Tracer, you will discover that it does not support all commands that are available on a real Cisco device. Let’s start by establishing that Packet Tracer is a simulation tool, which means it is not the real thing but behaves similarly to the real thing. One question those just entering the Cisco networking field is how Packet Tracer is different from GNS3 and other simulation tools. You can even apply filters to see only relevant packet types. The “Simulation Mode” is one of the best features to try in Cisco Packet Tracer because it allows you to see how things actually work in slow motion.This will come in handy in the real world However, don’t always rely on this option so that you can build your knowledge about the different cable types to use to connect various devices. The “Automatically Choose Connection Type” option is very useful when connecting devices together.Apart from these models having different physical attributes (e.g., interfaces), some models support more commands than others For example, there are several router models on Cisco Packet Tracer including 4321, 29. Use different types/models of the same device.For example, the latest Packet Tracer version (7.2.1 as of this writing) supports ASA 5506-X, 802.1X and PPPoE! This should go without saying, but new versions usually come with updated features.
Always download and use the latest version.However, here are some things to try with Packet Tracer that will help you make the most of the tool: How can you make the most of packet tracer?Ĭisco Packet Tracer is a really cool study tool even when used as-is. One of the best ways to learn is to think about different scenarios and “lab it up” to see how it works (or doesn’t work) Networking blogs such as Intense School and Packet Tracer Blog.YouTube channels such as Cisco Packet Tracer Labs and Danscourses.When you are reading through these books, always build the labs used in those books Study guides and official certification guides.Secondly, since Packet Tracer is all about developing your practical networking skills, you need to build and configure labs using Packet Tracer.
Packet Tracer for Beginners video: Part 1 and Part 2.Cisco Networking Academy’s Introduction to Packet Tracer course.
Now that we understand what Packet Tracer is and how to get it, let’s look at some resources that will help you get started and improve your skills with this tool.įirst, to learn how to use Packet Tracer, here are some useful resources:
Unfortunately, Cisco Network Academy was not an option for many people who either preferred the self-study route or just couldn’t afford to enroll in the academy.Īs with any software, illegal copies of Cisco Packet Tracer became available for free download on the Internet. Then Cisco released Packet Tracer but made it available to only Cisco Network Academy students. You either used real hardware, which could be very expensive, or you used simulation tools like Boson NetSim. In the past, you as someone preparing for the CCNA exam had limited options for getting practical networking skills. While Cisco does not intend for Packet Tracer to be a replacement for real devices, this tool, even when used alone, can actually give you enough hands-on experience to prepare for certification exams such as CCNA Routing and Switching, CCNA Security and - if used properly - CompTIA Network+. Basically, it provides a platform for students to build, configure, troubleshoot and experiment with network topologies using simulated devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, access points and laptops. Cisco Packet Tracer is a simulation tool for network, security and other related technologies.