Chapter 3.

Simulation Mode.

In this chapter, you learn how to use Packet Tracer's powerful simulation mode. This mode allows you to verify device connectivity and to study how the various types of data traverse your network.

Creating PDUs in Simulation Mode.

Packet Tracer provides a Simulation mode that allows you to create and capture PDUs to check serveral functions within network, such as:

Basic Connectivity - Can all devices communicate with each other?
Security - Are access list functioning as designed?
Applications and Services - Are applitacions and services such as DNS, HTTP and FTP functioning as designed?

The default mode for Packet Tracer is Realtime mode. In Realtime mode the time is continuosly running as indicated by the clock in the lower right hand corner of the worksheet. In Simulation mode, time can be stopped or slowed to allow users to view data traffic one packet at a time. Simulation mode is used to observe network traffic in detail with time controlled directly by the user.

Viewing the Contents of PDUs.

Once the PDUs have been captured, you have several ways to view their contents. Viewing the contents of the PDUs can be used to verify connectivity, very functionality, and troubleshoot issues. It is also a great tool for studiying or reviewing the contents of the OSI model layers and the mechanisms of communication.
If viewed in OSI Model ´mode, you see a summary of the addresses and contents of the headers at each layer. If you select Inbound or Outbound PDU Details, the exact format of the appropriate headers is displayed.

Packet Tracer - Explore Network Funtionality Using PDUs.

Explore network functionality using PDUs Instructions.

Chapter 3: Simulation Mode

At the completion of this chapter, you should be able to:

Investigate network functionality using Packet Tracer Simulation Mode.

For additional help and practice using Packet Tracer, please visit the Tutorials located under Help in the Packet Tracer program. To view some examples of how Packet Tracer can be used, select File, then Open Samples from the main menu.