1. Cisco Packet Tracer Overview
March 2010

2. Agenda Cisco Packet Tracer Overview Packet Tracker Key Features
Packet Tracer Key Benefits
Summary
Why did the official name for Packet Tracer change to Cisco Packet Tracer and why has the version number been eliminated from the official name; e.g. on the splash screen?
We changed the name to Cisco Packet Tracer and removed the version number to better align with Cisco’s naming practices and to minimize changes required for new releases. The software version number remains visible in the About screen of the Packet Tracer software. To access the About screen, start Packet Tracker, click the Help menu at the top of the user interface, and then select About.

3. Packet Tracer Overview

4. What is Cisco Packet Tracer?
Comprehensive networking technology teaching and learning software developed by Cisco Networking Academy
Offers a unique combination of realistic simulation and visualization experiences, complex assessment and activity authoring capabilities, and opportunities for multiuser collaboration and competition
Cisco Packet Tracer is far more than just another network simulation tool, it is primarily a teaching and learning software application and an integral part of the Cisco Networking Academy’s comprehensive learning experience.

5. Packet Tracer Simulation-Based Learning
Innovative features help students and teachers collaborate, solve problems, and learn concepts in an engaging and dynamic social environment
Supports lectures, group and individual labs, homework, exams, games, collaborations and competitions
Allows instructors to easily teach and demonstrate complex technical concepts and networking systems design
Helps students develop important 21st century skills .

6. Benefits of Simulation-Based Learning
Students who explore and experiment using Packet Tracer develop intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills.
Packet Tracer’s visually rich simulation environment facilitates comprehension of complex technology concepts.
Students who troubleshoot networks using Packet Tracer develop problem solving skills.
Students who design and build virtual networks using Packet Tracer improve their innovation and creativity skills.
Students who explore concepts at their own pace in Packet Tracer’s safe, virtual environment gain confidence in their decision making skills and abilities.
Using Packet Tracer for team collaboration and competition activities builds social, communication, and negotiation skills.
The simulation-based learning environment helps students develop 21st century skills

7. Packet Tracer Key Features

8. Simulation, Visualization, Collaboration
Simulate IOS Commands
Visualize Network Traffic
Collaborate on Multiuser Activities
Innovative features of Packet Tracer help students and teachers collaborate, solve problems, and learn concepts in an engaging and dynamic social environment. Some of the benefits of Packet Tracer are as follows:
Provides a realistic simulation and visualization learning environment that supplements classroom equipment
Enables multiuser, real-time collaboration and competition for dynamic learning

9. Supports Homework and Pre-Lab Prep
These screenshots represent typical examples of how an instructor might use Packet Tracer support classroom activities.
Allows students and teachers to design, build, configure, and troubleshoot networks using virtual equipment
Supports a variety of teaching and learning tasks such as lectures, group and individual labs, homework, and competitions

10. Packet Tracer Activity Wizard
Anyone can author, the PT Activity Wizard guides you
The process is basically write instructions, build a correct answer network, specify grading, specify an initial network, save
Ability to create your own learning activities, tasks, labs, games and complex assessments
Build scaffolded learning experiences, formative and summative assessments
The Activity Wizard allows users to set up scenarios using text, basic network topologies, and predefined packets. Users can create customized network scenarios and add instructional text. The Activity Wizard also includes grading and feedback capabilities. Instructors can use the Activity Wizard to create an unlimited number of guided and exploratory learning experiences that provide immediate feedback to students. These activities can also be saved and shared with other instructors in the Networking Academy community.

11. Activity Wizard for Editing PT Activities
This examples shows how you can use the Activity Wizard to also edit existing activities, in this example the instructions were localized for a Spanish-speaking class.
Enables authoring and localization of structured learning activities such as labs, demonstrations, quizzes, exams, and games
Instructors can localize, edit, or enhance existing activities
using the Activity Wizard

12. Packet Tracer Multiuser Functionality
PT is a network-capable (peer to peer) application, using the real network (TCP socket connections) to carry the Packet Tracer virtual packets
The PT application running on one computer can communicate with the PT application running on 1 or more other computers
This connectivity between multiple instances of PT supports teamwork, classroom games, collaboration, competition, remote instructor-student interaction, and social networking

13. Example Multiuser Scenarios
2 teams,
1 instructor
3 Packet Tracer instances interacting via Packet Tracer Messaging Protocol (PTMP)
3 different classes
Real TCP Socket Connection
PC 2
PC 1
Examples of multiuser functionality might be
An instructor watching 2 teams of students racing to see who completes an activity first
3 different CCNA classes in 3 different countries are playing a game
3 students are collaborating on a homework project from their homes
Real TCP Socket Connection
Real TCP Socket Connection
3 students from home
PC 3

14. Multiuser Games for Social Learning
These are examples of 2 multiuser games from the instructor’s view on his console
Instructor console view of multiuser “Relay Race” game
Instructor console view of multiuser “King of the Hill” game

15. Packet Tracer Features
Logical and Physical Workspaces
Real-Time and Simulation Modes
User friendly Command Line Interface (CLI)
Global event list (packet sniffer)
LAN, switching, TCP/IP, routing, and WAN protocols
Activity Wizard, Lab grading
Multiuser functionality
Multiple platform support
Multiple language support
Integrated Help and Tutorials
Logical Workspace is the primary workspace for creating networks of any size and CCNA-level configuration. Physical Workspace promotes an intuitive interaction with physical devices, with physical layout and distance representation including intercity, city, building, wiring closet, and device views.
Real-time Mode models real-time protocol updates and medium-fidelity Cisco IOS CLI configuration of switches and routers. Simulation Mode allows for a detailed study of protocol interactions.
Global event list (packet sniffer): The packet sniffer in Packet Tracer allows students to see some of the same kinds of information that they would see with a commercial packet sniffing program, such as Ethereal. This functionality allows students to see just the amount of information that is appropriate for a CCNA level student without overwhelming them with the amount of information that would be seen in the commercial product.
Multiple languages are supported. Instructions are included for self-translation into other languages. To locate these instructions, go to the Help file and click on Translation Process in the navigation pane.
Physical interfaces model realistic equipment set up including adding and removing components.
Multiuser Functionality: Cisco Packet Tracer is a network-capable application, with a multiuser peer-to-peer mode that allows collaborative construction of virtual networks over a real network. The multiuser feature enables exciting collaborative and competitive interactions, providing the option to progress from individual to social learning and features opportunities for collaboration, competition, remote instructor-student interactions, social networking, and gaming.
Activity Wizard enables instructors to create automatically scored practice activities and enables instructors and students to easily create and share network templates. The Variable Manager enables the instructor to create multiple activities based on a single activity and the use of variables. These variables may be used in the activity instructions and initial values to create different correct answers each time.

16. Key E-Learning Component
Learning theories stress early hands-on experiences
Key components of Networking Academy e-learning strategy include
In-person, hands-on labs with real equipment
Online curriculum and assessment
Cisco Packet Tracer
Instructor
Collaboration Tools
Learning cycles alternating both Packet Tracer activities and in-person, hands-on lab experiences with real equipment are a best practice for teaching CCNA-level networking to beginners
Packet Tracer is a supplement to hands-on lab equipment and is not a replacement for lab equipment. The Networking Academy program recommends the use of physical equipment for hands-on learning. This is a key differentiator relative to other programs. Packet Tracer simulations, which are embedded in the new curricula, are supplemental and designed to provide learning opportunities for environments that are not possible to re-create in the classroom.

17. Supports Networking Academy Curricula
Supports the majority of protocols and technologies taught in CCNA Discovery, CCNA Exploration, and CCNA Security, and can also be used to teach concepts from IT Essentials and CCNP courses
Packet Tracer is a foundational teaching tool for CCNA Discovery, CCNA Exploration, and CCNA Security. All 3 curricula include embedded e-doing, which applies the principle that people learn best by interacting with computer-based activities. Interactive learning promotes the exploration of networking concepts and experimentation with tools such as Packet Tracer and Flash-based activities to help students develop a greater understanding of networking technologies.
Packet Tracer activities are embedded in the course content in the CCNA courses, for CCNA Security the Packet Tracer activities are provided outside of the course GUI..
Students Launch Packet Tracer Directly From CCNA Discovery and CCNA Exploration to Access Activities That Reinforce the Curriculum

18. Packet Tracer Version 5.3

19. What’s New in Packet Tracer 5.3
Improved Linksys models, wireless security
Cable and DSL enhancements
Call Manager Express (VOIP support)
FTP server and routers/switches - Server and Client
system (SMTP – POP3) - Server and Client
BGP – limited implementation that allows for a more realistic representation of the Internet for scenarios
Generic IP end devices – to create more versatility in device creation
Activity Wizard Initial Tree enhancements – more scenario variations
Packet Tracer 5.3 is a minor release that includes new and enhanced functionality.

20. PT 5.3 and CCNA and CCNP Curricula
Version 5.3 enhancements provide new or enhanced functionality to help illustrate the following topics:
CCNA Discovery
D1: improved Linksys and wireless– Generic IP end devices
D2: better DNS, improved DHCP, wireless security, new FTP, SMTP, POP3,
D3: Improved multiarea OSPF, EIGRP, BGP
D4: New ISR VOIP, Call Manager Express
CCNA Exploration
E1: improved HTTP, DNS, DHCP, new FTP, SMTP, POP3
E2: Improved multiarea OSPF, EIGRP, new BGP
E3: Improved Linksys models, wireless security,
E4: New PPPoE, enhanced IPSec, Cable and DSL enhancements
CCNP
Improved multiarea OSPF, EIGRP, new BGP
Although there are no CCNA Discovery or CCNA Exploration curriculum requirements that make it necessary to move to Packet Tracer 5.3, we recommend upgrading to the new version to take advantage of the many improvements included in this release.

21. Packet Tracer 5.3 Protocol Support
Application
FTP , SMTP, POP3, HTTP, TFTP, Telnet, SSH, DNS, DHCP, NTP, SNMP, AAA,
ISR VOIP, SCCP config and calls ISR command support, Call Manager Express
Transport
TCP and UDP, TCP Nagle Algorithm & IP Fragmentation, RTP
Network
BGP, IPv4, ICMP, ARP, IPv6, ICMPv6, IPSec, RIPv1/v2/ng, Multi-Area OSPF,
EIGRP, Static Routing, Route Redistribution, Multilayer Switching, L3 QoS, NAT,
CBAL , Zone-based policy firewall and Intrusion Protection System on the ISR,
GRE VPN, IPSec VPN
Network Access/Interface
Ethernet (802.3), , HDLC, Frame Relay, PPP, PPPoE, STP, RSTP, VTP,
DTP, CDP, 802.1q, PAgP, L2 QoS, SLARP, Simple WEP, WPA, EAP
Protocols listed in RED on this slide are new in PT 5.3
Protocols listed in BLUE on this slide are enhanced in PT 5.3
*New in PT 5.3
*Enhanced in PT 5.3 21

22. Packet Tracer Key Benefits

23. Packet Tracer Benefits
Makes teaching easier by providing a free, multiuser environment for instructors to easily teach complex technical concepts
Makes learning easier by providing a realistic simulation and visualization environment for exploration, experimentation and explanation
Packet Tracer benefits both instructors and students in many ways
Instructors and students can create their own virtual “network worlds” for teaching and learning networking concepts and technologies

24. Key Instructor Benefits
Ability to teach complex networking concepts
Demonstrate technologies and configurations
Author custom guided activities, labs and assessments with immediate feedback using the Activity Wizard
Use for lecture demonstration, individual and group labs, homework, assessments, games, network design, troubleshooting and modeling tasks, reinforcement of hands-on lab activities, case studies, competitions
Supplements classroom equipment and provides complementary learning opportunities that are not possible in the classroom alone
Supports social learning processes via multiuser collaboration and competition
Ability to teach complex CCNA-level networking concepts
Demonstrate technologies and configurations
Author custom guided activities, labs and assessments with immediate feedback using the Activity Wizard
Use for lecture demonstration, individual and group labs, homework, assessments, games, network design, troubleshooting and modeling tasks, reinforcement of hands-on lab activities, case studies, competitions
Supplements classroom equipment and provides complementary learning opportunities that are not possible in the classroom alone
Visualization, animation and detailed modeling provide a teaching environment enabling exploration, experimentation and explanation in new visual ways
Supports self-paced learning outside the classroom
Supports social learning processes via multiuser collaboration and competition
Overall enhanced student satisfaction and success, adds additional value to attract more students to program

25. Benefits for Students
Provides a free practice and visualization environment for the design, configuration and troubleshooting of network environments
Observe virtual packets real time as they travel through your network
Allows practice outside of the physical classroom and lab (home computers, mobile laptops)
Create and configure much larger topologies than possible with physical equipment available
Provides a rich learning environment beyond standard networking technology instructional practices
Provides valuable hands-on expertise to help you succeed in the classroom and on the job
Students who spend more time in a hands-on mode of learning, with simulation and interactive capabilities, will be better equipped to apply concepts and configuration fundamentals when exposed to real equipment. As students gain practical experience with tasks such as troubleshooting, they become more confident in their abilities.
Packet Tracer provides an opportunity for social learning, allowing students to compete with each other and play games that enhance the learning experience. Students can connect networking equipment in many different combinations, allowing for experimentation and encouraging a deeper understanding of networking protocols.
Packet Tracer can be freely distributed to any Networking Academy instructor, student, or alumni. This enables students to use Packet Tracer on any computer outside of class for homework, practice, and exploratory learning.

26. Summary

27. Packet Tracer Key Take Aways
Packet Tracer is a powerful network simulation program that allows students to experiment with network behavior and ask “what if” questions
Makes teaching and learning networking technology easier
Not intended to replace experiences with real equipment, but rather to complement them
A laboratory for teaching and learning; you can experiment, you can create your own virtual network “world”
Helps students develop 21st century skills such as decision making, creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
Packet Tracer is an integral part of the Networking Academy comprehensive learning experience

28. Packet Tracer Availability
Packet Tracer is available free to all Networking Academy instructors, students and alumni on Academy Connection
To obtain Packet Tracer
Log in to Academy Connection
Click the Packet Tracer image on the left side of your Home Page
Select the appropriate download option
Recommendation
Download to a local server at your academy and have students install Packet Tracer from the local server
Packet Tracer 5.3 has superseded PT 5.2 and is the only version of Packet Tracer that is currently available for download from Academy Connection.

29. Resources on Academy Connection
FAQs
At A Glance
Datasheet
Overview Presentation
Video viewing link and video downloads
Instructor training materials
Link to Instructor Guides
Release Notes
Supplementary activities for the CCNA curricula
Link to Packet Tracer Trivia game
Link to Packet Tracer Discussion Forum
And More…See Packet Tracer resource page on Academy Connection

30. Packet Tracer Trivia
A fun activity that demonstrates how Packet Tracer is transforming student learning and helping to build 21st century skills
Available on
Available on micro site
Engaging game interface communicates some key benefits of simulation software-enabled learning
Uses Packet Tracer animations to answer the trivia questions
Demonstrates how Packet Tracer helps develop 21st century skills such as critical thinking and problem solving
We hope this provides a fun opportunity for interaction and conversation on the many benefits of a Networking Academy education!
Promotional tool for academy/instructor use

31. Packet Tracer Discussion Forum
Access the global instructor community for questions, discussions, collaboration, and activity sharing
You can discuss using Packet Tracer in the classroom, ask other instructors for ideas and feedback, or share Packet Tracer activities that you have developed
To collaborate with other instructors, join the Cisco Packet Tracer community discussion. To access the discussion board, log in to Academy Connection and click Forums & Chat under Resources, then select Instructor Community > Packet Tracer.