Overview: Cisco Packet Tracer
- Desktop software (downloadable)
- Primary Purpose: To enable learning
- CLI: a Simulator that acts like Cisco IOS CLI
- Scope: Primarily IOS routers and switches
- Lab exercises: None included, but Packet Tracer Activity (.PKA) files allow easy sharing of lab exercise + topology
- IOS Licensing: Does not use Cisco IOS
- Usable by: Any Cisco Academy student
Analysis of Cisco Packet Tracer
Analysis: Lab Exercises and Packet Tracer
Are Lab Exercises Included?
No, but...
None Included, but app is designed for easy use of packaged lab exercises (.pka files)
Are Labs Easily Available on the Net?
Just open a file.
The mechanism is easy: download the file and open it in Packet Tracer. Trusted and community authors.
Trusted authors of CCENT/CCNA labs?
Designed
Several trusted sources, including Cisco Press and Cisco Academy curriculum/instructors.
Overall Usefulness for Lab Learning
Academy!
Great for Academy students, popular with others.
Analysis: Time and Dollar Costs
Time Overhead: Low
How much time does it take to learn the software, choose/buy/install the hardware, to be ready to learn CCENT and CCNA topics? Lower number, speedier start! Will need to search, find, and get lab exercises.
Time (Overhead)
Initial Cost: Zero – Low
Packet Tracer is free. It requires no additional software, and as a desktop app it typically runs without need for more/better desktop hardware. You may want to purchase Cisco Press lab guides to get some lab exercises.
Initial Cost
Annual Cost: Zero
Free to begin, and no annual charges.
Annual Cost