Experiment # 01
Objective
Introduction to computer communication networks lab, safety precautions, cisco packet tracer
software installation and its working environment.
Equipment Required
PC/ Laptop with packet tracer software
Theory
Cisco packet tracer is a powerful network simulation program that allows students to experiment.
Packet Tracer supplements physical equipment by allowing one to create a network with an
almost unlimited number of devices, encouraging practice, discovery, and troubleshooting. Some
figures are shown below to reveal the simulation environment of packet tracer. It provides a wide
range of cisco networking devices that one can emulate, including routers, switches, firewalls,
access points, and servers. These devices have similar functionality to their real counterparts,
allowing one to practice configurations and testing.
Like every workplace, laboratories may contain computers and related equipment. The safety
rules help prevent the misuse of the equipment, electric shocks and other injuries, and ensure
that any damaged equipment, cords, or plugs are reported to the appropriate authorities so they
can be repaired or replaced. Below are few of the instructions to work safely in the lab:
i. Before using any equipment, make sure you get permission from your lab supervisor.
ii. Any equipment should never be changed or modified in any way.
iii. Always turn off a power supply when you are attaching it.
iv. Use only one hand if you need to adjust any equipment. It is safest to place your other
hand either behind your back or in a pocket.
v. Make sure all electrical panels are unobstructed and easily accessible.
vi. Whenever you can, avoid using extension cords.
vii. Always keep your work area(s) tidy and clean.
viii. Make sure that all the fire extinguishers and exits are always unobstructed and
accessible.
ix. Only materials you require for your work should be kept in your work area. Everything
else should be stored safely out of the way.
x. Never use lab equipment that you are not approved or trained by your supervisor to
operate.
xi. If an instrument or piece of equipment fails during use, or isn't operating properly, report
the issue to a technician right away. Never try to repair an equipment problem on your
own.
xii. Do not work alone in the lab and never leave an ongoing experiment unattended.
xiii. Know emergency phone numbers to use to call for help in case of an emergency.
xiv. Follow the instructions given to you time to time.
Installation Guide:
i. To use cisco packet tracer on a windows pc, one will need to follow these steps:
download the cisco packet tracer software from an authentic source..
ii. Once the download is complete, double-click on the installer file to begin the
installation process.
iii. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
iv. Once the installation is complete, launch the packet tracer application from the start
menu or by clicking on the shortcut icon on one’s desktop.
v. To start a new simulation, click on the "new" button on the main toolbar, or go to
"file" and select "new."
vi. To add network devices to simulation, one can use the drag-and-drop interface or go
to "edit" and select "add device."
vii. Connect the devices by dragging a cable from one device's port to another.
viii. To configure the devices, double-click on them and select the "config" tab.
ix. To run the simulation, click on the "start" button on the main toolbar, or go to
"simulation" and select "start."
x. To end the simulation, click on the "stop" button on the main toolbar, or go to
"simulation" and select "stop."
xi. To save one’s simulation, go to "file" and select "save" or "save as."
Working Environment:
Cisco packet tracer software allows one to create a virtual network environment as shown in
below figure 1-1 where one can simulate and visualize the behavior of different network devices
such as routers, switches, pcs, servers, and wireless devices, as shown in figure 1-2 below. One
can connect these devices and configure their settings to simulate real-world networking
scenarios. One can also design complex network topologies using a drag-and-drop interface in
packet tracer. It offers a variety of networking components and modules that can be
interconnected to create a desired network. It supports a wide range of networking protocols and
technologies, like ip, ipv6, and routing protocols, etc., for configuration and experimentation for
real world environment.
Figure 1-1
Figure 1-2
Figure 1-3
Lab Task
Search and connect different nodes in below figure 1-4 and accomplish the set up in packet tracer
software.
Figure 1-4
Procedure and Observations
Self Assessment
Segregate the different networking devices you worked on in packet tracer software.
Conclusion