Cisco Packet Tracer is a powerful network simulator that can be utilized in training for CCNA TM and CCNP TM certification exam by allowing students to create networks with an almost unlimited number of devices and to experience troubleshooting without having to buy real CiscoTM routers or switches.

Cisco Packet Tracer features an array of simulated Application layer protocols (HTTP, DNS, …), as well as basic routing with RIP, OSPF, and EIGRP, to the extent required by the current CCNA curriculum.

It also includes Cisco IOS 15 with licence features which was introduced in the CCNA exam in 2013, wireless capabilities with WLC and lightweight access point, and security devices with ASA 5505 and 5506-X firewalls.

In a rapidly growing IoE (Internet Of Everything) market, Cisco announced new Industrial/IoT certification (IMINS2 Exam) program to help students and network professionnals to builds the skills required to converge Industrial Plant floor with IT infrastructure.

Packet Tracer 7.2 provides advanced IoE capabilities with the following new devices and features :

• MCU and SBC IoT boards with wired and wireless connectivity

• New IoE service in server device and IOE home Gateway with centralized modular programming capabilities (javascript, python)

• IoX application deployment capabilities on ISR819HG-4G IOX router

• Several IoE activities such as an I2IoE "Home IoE Implementation" lab

An open source version of PTBridge is now available on GitHub. This PTBridge version works with Packet Tracer 6.2 multiuser connection (server mode). It translates Packet Tracer packets and protocols to real ones and allows real network interaction with Packet Tracer simulated environment. ASA features such as IPSEC VPN or SSL clientless will be tested soon. Wait for upcoming test results !

Since Cisco Packet Tracer 5.3.3, it has been possible to connect Cisco Packet Tracer simulated environment to real world networks using PTBridge which is an external java application (PT533-Bridge-1.0.11.jar for Cisco Packet Tracer 5.3.3) working with the following components :

• Java JRE > 6
• WinPcap v4.1.2 (captures the packets)
• JnetPcap v1.3.0 (decodes the captured packets)
• Packet Tracer multiuser cloud configured on TCP 38000 port.