2.9.1 Packet Tracer - Basic Switch and End Device Configuration

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the basic configuration of a switch and end devices using Cisco Packet Tracer. Understanding how to set up and configure network devices is essential for anyone interested in networking or pursuing a career in IT. With these foundational skills, you can build and troubleshoot small networks effectively.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Workspace

1. Open Cisco Packet Tracer on your computer.
2. Create a new file by selecting 'File' and then 'New'.
3. Add devices to your workspace:
   • Drag a switch from the device menu (found on the bottom left).
   • Drag two end devices (like PCs) from the device menu.

Step 2: Connecting Devices

1. Select the Connection Tool:
   • Click the lightning bolt icon on the bottom left toolbar.
2. Connect the devices:
   • Click on the first end device, select the FastEthernet port.
   • Click on the switch, and select any available port (e.g., FastEthernet0/1).
   • Repeat this process for the second end device, connecting it to a different switch port (e.g., FastEthernet0/2).

Step 3: Configuring the Switch

1. Access the switch CLI:
   • Click on the switch, then navigate to the CLI tab.
2. Enter privileged EXEC mode:
   • Type enable and press Enter.
3. Enter global configuration mode:
   • Type configure terminal or conf t and press Enter.
4. Assign a hostname:
   • Type hostname Switch1 and press Enter.
5. Set up a management VLAN:
   • Type interface vlan 1 and press Enter.
   • Assign an IP address with ip address 192.168.1.1 255.255.255.0 and press Enter.
   • Enable the interface by typing no shutdown and pressing Enter.
6. Exit to global configuration mode:
   • Type exit to return.

Step 4: Configuring End Devices

1. Access the first PC's configuration:
   • Click on the first PC, then go to the Desktop tab and select IP Configuration.
2. Assign IP settings:
   • Set the IP Address to 192.168.1.2.
   • Set the Subnet Mask to 255.255.255.0.
   • Leave the Default Gateway blank (or set it to 192.168.1.1 if needed).
3. Repeat for the second PC:
   • Set the IP Address to 192.168.1.3.
   • Use the same Subnet Mask as before.

Step 5: Testing Connectivity

1. Test the connection between PCs:
   • Open the Command Prompt on the first PC.
   • Type ping 192.168.1.3 and press Enter.
   • If the configuration is correct, you should see replies from the second PC.
2. Check the switch configuration:
   • Return to the switch CLI and type show ip interface brief to verify the interface status.

Conclusion

You have successfully configured a basic switch and end devices using Cisco Packet Tracer. This foundational knowledge is crucial for managing networks and troubleshooting issues in real-world scenarios. As a next step, consider exploring more advanced configurations or adding more devices to your network to deepen your understanding.