Packet Tracer
Cisco Packet Tracer is a network simulation tool. It is primarily used for learning how computer networking works (with a clear emphasis on Cisco's hardware and software), but network engineers might also use it to design and test networks.
Learning Objectives
You should be able to:
- Create a Cisco Netacad.com account
- Install Packet Tracer
- Create a small network
Video Walkthrough
Use this video to follow along with the steps in this lab.
Cisco's Network Academy
Cisco's Network Academy can be found at https://www.netacad.com/. There are several excellent free courses and some excellent paid resources. Signing up for an account is free, though you will need a valid email address. Remember your password.
- Go to https://www.netacad.com/.
- Click the account icon in the top right part of the page.
- If you do not have an account, click the Sign up link. Be sure to use a valid email. Save your password in your password manager.
- Once you have an account, go use the Catalog link on the https://www.netacad.com website.
- Open the
Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracercourse.- As of June 2025, the course link is https://www.netacad.com/courses/getting-started-cisco-packet-tracer?courseLang=en-US.
- Enroll in the course. You will not have to complete any activities in the course, but you will need to enroll to get access to download Packet Tracer.
Packet Tracer Installation
- Log into your Windows Server virtual machine.
- Log into https://www.netacad.com.
- Find the Packet Tracer download on Netacad.com. The link frequently changes, but it should look something like https://www.netacad.com/resources/lab-downloads.
- Download the latest version of Packet Tracer for Windows 64bit. For example, the download link might say
Packet Tracer 8.2.2 Windows 64bit.
- Download the latest version of Packet Tracer for Windows 64bit. For example, the download link might say
- Once downloaded, run the installer file.
- Accept all of the defaults with the following notes:
- You do not need the multi-user setup.
- You do not need to reboot at the end of the installation.
Launch Packet Tracer
- Find Packet Tracer in your start menu and start it.
- If promoted to run multi-user when the application starts, click
no. - You will be prompted to enter your netacad.com account credentials. There will be a box to check to stay logged in--you should probably check that box. Occasionally, some people have to use the "Skills for All" link to login instead of the "Netacad" button. Both of these links will open a web browser where you enter your credentials. Once you enter your credentials, Packet Tracer should let you in. Cisco is in the process of unifying the two logins, but it can be a bit confusing right now.
- The following screenshot shows key Packet Tracer features.
At this point, Packet Tracer has been installed and you are ready to use it.
Reflection
- Why would network simulation software help you learn about complex networks?
- Is it okay to learn networking solely using Cisco's proprietary platform?
Key Terms
- Cisco: A multinational technology company headquartered in San Jose, California. Cisco designs, manufactures, and sells networking hardware, telecommunications equipment, and other high-technology services and products. It is known for its networking solutions, including routers, switches, and security devices.
- Packet Tracer: A network simulation tool developed by Cisco. It allows users to create network topologies, configure devices, and simulate network traffic to practice and learn networking concepts. Packet Tracer is widely used in educational settings and by individuals preparing for Cisco certification exams.