Cisco Packet Tracer

Pros

• Very realistic network simulator
• Has teacher's grading system included
• Allows very precise editing for actual network topology
• Developed by Cisco, a very reputable company in the network industry

Cons

• Occasionally has bugs that require a restart
• So many options may make it seem intimidating to a new user

Cisco Packet Tracer is an application that simulates network management and monitoring.

Networking students will find this application very helpful. Since most people don't have server racks, tons of devices, and multiple modems and routers, this application can help cut training costs. The application lets students create realistic network topologies and use the actual programs that network engineers use to create, monitor, and study networks.

Packet Tracer can also be useful for instructors. While students are free to tinker around with it, there is also an "Activity Wizard" in the program. This allows instructors to create practical assignments for students. For example, an instructor could give an example scenario and request that students create a network for a fictitious company. Students can even submit their work to the instructor upon completion. The app even contains its own grading system, so instructors should have no problem keeping records of their students' progress.

Of course, this application also appeals to self-study learners. Since users begin with a blank slate and gradually add devices and simulate network activity, anyone of any experience level with network engineering can benefit from this application. Unlimited devices can be added, and the connection method (UDP or TCP) can be modified. Rather than reading through a dense textbook, self-study learners can quickly progress in network engineering just by using this app.

Let's not leave out industry professionals! IT professionals are often called upon to create a network infrastructure at company offices. Although some prefer handwritten drawings or other software, Cisco's Packet Tracer is perfect for making mock networks. Since the program is so precise, and unlimited devices can be added, it's the perfect tool for ensuring you understand the type and quantity of networking equipment and finding flaws in your network diagram before spending your company's money.

Although the program has been around for awhile (and was originally a part of Cisco's "Network Academy"), it's known for having bugs that have never been resolved. These include the program freezing for no apparent reason, the screen simply turning blank without warning, and more. It's best to periodically save your project files as you work if you use this program.

Overall, Cisco's Packet Tracer delivers on its promises. As one of the few networking practice applications that is both free and very realistic, almost any networking student or teacher (or even professional) can learn a lot from this handy program. Though it does have some bugs, it's easy enough to just close the program and open it again.

Pros

• Very realistic network simulator
• Has teacher's grading system included
• Allows very precise editing for actual network topology
• Developed by Cisco, a very reputable company in the network industry

Cons

• Occasionally has bugs that require a restart
• So many options may make it seem intimidating to a new user