Introduction

Welcome to Packet Tracer 5.1.

Packet Tracer 5.1 is a standalone, medium-fidelity, simulation-based learning environment for networking novices to design, configure, and troubleshoot computer networks at a CCNA-level of complexity. Packet Tracer supports student and instructor creation of simulations, visualizations, and animations of networking phenomena. Like any simulation, Packet Tracer 5.1 relies on a simplified model of networking devices and protocols. Real computer networks remain the benchmark for understanding network behavior and developing networking skills. Packet Tracer was created to help address the "digital divide" in networking education, where many students and teachers lack access to equipment, bandwidth, and interactive modes of learning networking. We invite you to use the help files and tutorials to learn about the major features of the program, which include the items in the following table

Item | Description
Protocols | LAN: Ethernet (including CSMA/CD*), 802.11 wireless* Switching: VLANs, 802.1q, trunking, VTP, DTP, STP*, RSTP, multilayer switching, Etherchannel TCP/IP: HTTP, DHCP, DHCPv6, Telnet, SSH, TFTP, DNS, TCP*, UDP, IP, IPv6, ICMP, ICMPv6, ARP, IPv6 ND Routing: static, default, RIPv1, RIPv2, EIGRP, single-area OSPF, multi-area OSPF, inter-VLAN routing Other: ACLs (standard, extended, and named), CDP, NAT (static, dynamic, and overload), NATv6 WAN: HDLC, PPP, and Frame Relay* * indicates substantial modeling limitations imposed
Logical Workspace | Network topology creation Devices: generic, real, and modular Routers, switches, hosts, hubs, bridges, wireless access points, wireless routers, clouds, and DSL/cable modems Device interconnection through a variety of networking media Multiuser remote networks
Physical Workspace | Hierarchy of device, wiring closet, building, city, and intercity views Loading of user-created graphics Wireless association management
Realtime Mode | Realtime protocol updates Medium-fidelity Cisco IOS CLI configuration of routers and switches
Simulation Mode | Packet animation Global event list (packet sniffer) OSI Model, Detailed PDU, and Device Table Views User-defined multiple packet scenarios
Local Authoring and Sharing | Extensive file-saving options Activity Wizard for authoring automatically scored practice activities and formative assessment Challenge Mode allowing users to make device algorithm decisions on packets Easily translated GUI Extensive textual and graphical annotation features External Applications (ExApps) through Inter-process Communication (IPC)