Using Packet Tracer has allowed computer networking professionals to design networks, teach ideas and concepts, and save time on brainstorming. Although it’s a wonderful tool, making a simple network is a challenge if you aren’t familiar with the program.

Two computers that are connected through a router are actually on separate networks if properly configured. Having a computer communicate another on a different network is a complex process, but Packet Tracer makes it easy to setup the design and configuration.In about 10-15 minutes, the most basic of all networks can be constructed and working.

The running configuration of the router can be accessed by using a console cable and setting up a connection from one of the desktop machines. The console cable isn’t necessary for Packet Tracer, but if you plan on programming a real router you will definitely need one. You will also need a crossover cable so that you may connect the desktop machines to the router’s individual Ethernet ports.

The IP addresses you assign will be the logic of the operation. It’s up to you which network numbers and addresses you use, but they must follow a certain convention in order to work. You will be using at least four IP addresses total, counting your two desktop machines and two Ethernet ports on the router. Assign each Ethernet port and IP address that corresponds to a certain network. If you assign both to the same network, you will quickly see the configuration won’t work.

The gateway address is also very important: it allows a computer to connect to a network. The gateway address is configured on the desktop, and it’s value is the same IP address as the Ethernet interface that it is connected to. Without the gateway, information wouldn’t have a way of getting from one network to another. It’s one of the most common rookie mistakes to accidentally leave the gateway address blank.

Troubleshooting is what computer network technicians are known for. If you find that your network isn’t working at this point, you shouldn’t be surprised. There are hundreds of reasons a network can go wrong, ranging from physical connections to input errors. The trick is to troubleshoot the symptoms of the network to see where you went wrong and how to fix it. Try to complete the troubleshooting process by yourself, as it will be more of a meaningful lesson for the future.

Closing Comments

A basic network is easy to setup in theory, but harder to actually create. Confusing Cisco IOS commands and problems such as a faulty cable is enough to give anyone a hard time. Internet tutorials and troubleshooting tactics are a good solution if you have hit a stumbling block.

Learn more about packet tracer tutorials and packet tracer.