This guide provides official instructions for obtaining and installing Cisco Packet Tracer.
1. Official Download Source#
Cisco Packet Tracer is free software provided by Cisco for educational use, but requires a free registration with Cisco Networking Academy or Cisco Skills for All.
Important
Never download Packet Tracer executables or installers from unverified third-party mirror websites or file-sharing platforms. Always use Cisco's official educational portal.
Steps to Download:#
- Visit the official Cisco Skills for All portal: https://skillsforall.com/ or https://www.netacad.com/portal/learning
- Enroll in the free introductory course "Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer".
- Once enrolled, navigate to the course download section.
- Select the appropriate installer for your operating system:
- Windows: 64-bit installer (
.exe) - Ubuntu Linux: Debian package (
.deb) - macOS: Apple disk image (
.dmg)
- Windows: 64-bit installer (
- Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts.
- When launching Packet Tracer for the first time, log in using your registered Cisco Skills for All / NetAcad account credentials.
2. System Requirements#
- OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit), Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or 24.04 LTS (64-bit), macOS 12+ (64-bit / Apple Silicon via Rosetta or native build).
- RAM: Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended for multi-device topologies).
- Storage: At least 1.5 GB free disk space.
- Resolution: 1024x768 minimum display resolution.
3. Verifying Your Installation#
- Launch Cisco Packet Tracer.
- Under the bottom-left device palette, click Network Devices -> Routers.
- Drag a Router 4321 or Router 2911 onto the workspace canvas.
- Click the device, switch to the CLI tab, and verify that the virtual bootloader finishes loading and prompts:
Router> - If the CLI prompt appears without crashes, your simulation environment is ready.