Connecting Two PCs

In this hands-on exercise, we'll delve into the basics of creating a network connection between two PCs. Cisco Packet Tracer, a powerful network simulation tool, will be our playground. You'll learn how to establish a connection between two computers, enabling them to exchange data, share resources, and communicate seamlessly.

By the end of this lab, you'll have gained practical insights into the essential concepts of network configuration, IP addressing, and the foundational skills needed to set up a simple network.

In this lab we will perform the following:

1. Connect 2 PCs directly using Copper cross-over wire and configure static IP Addressing.

2. Connect 2 PCs through a Switch and copper straight wires, and using DHCP addressing protocol.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this lab as this is a foundation lab for more complex concepts that we will cover in future labs.

What is Cisco Packet Tracer ?

Cisco Packet Tracer is a powerful network simulation software created by Cisco Systems. It's designed to assist students, educators, and IT professionals in learning, teaching, and practicing networking principles. Packet Tracer offers a virtual environment where users can create, configure, and troubleshoot networks without physical hardware.

With a user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop functionality, users can easily build complex network topologies and experiment with various devices like routers, switches, and firewalls. It's a valuable resource for networking education and certification preparation, allowing users to simulate real-world scenarios and test configurations safely.

Packet Tracer offers practical, hands-on experience, making it an essential tool for understanding networking fundamentals and advancing networking knowledge and skills. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Cisco Packet Tracer provides a versatile and risk-free platform for network exploration.

What is DHCP ?

DHCP is an abbreviation for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is the fundamental characteristic via which enterprise network users communicate. DHCP enables organisations to manage the assignment of IP addresses to end-user client devices such as desktops, laptops, cellphones, and so on. is an application layer protocol that provides:

• Subnet Mask (Option 1 - e.g., 255.255.255.0)

• Router Address (Option 3 - e.g., 192.168.1.1)

• DNS Address (Option 6 - e.g., 8.8.8.8)

• Vendor Class Identifier (Option 43 - e.g., 'unifi' = 192.168.1.9 ##where unifi = controller)

DHCP is a client-server protocol that uses discovery, offer, request, and acknowledgement. 

Why Use DHCP?

DHCP helps in managing the entire process automatically and centrally. DHCP helps in maintaining a unique IP Address for a host using the server. DHCP servers maintain information on TCP/IP configuration and provide configuration of address to DHCP-enabled clients in the form of a lease offer.

Refer to these links and tutorials for more information

1. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) - GeeksforGeeks

2. Cisco Packet Tracer - Networking Simulation Tool (netacad.com)

3. Basics of Computer Networking - GeeksforGeeks

Summary

In this hands-on exercise, we delve into fundamental networking concepts using Cisco Packet Tracer, a powerful simulation tool. Our goal is to connect two PCs for data exchange and seamless communication. You'll gain practical insights into network setup, IP addressing, and foundational skills. The lab includes tasks like directly linking two PCs with Copper cross-over wires and configuring static IP addresses, as well as connecting PCs via a switch using DHCP addressing. No prerequisites are necessary, as this serves as a foundation for more advanced networking concepts. Cisco Packet Tracer simplifies this learning process, offering a virtual environment for network creation and troubleshooting, making it an ideal resource for students, educators, and IT professionals.