Hands-on Workshop on CISCO Packet Tracer, Wireshark, NS2 Simulator

Hands-on Workshop on CISCO Packet Tracer, Wireshark, NS2 Simulator

Event Dates: 13th & 16th March 2026
Objectives of the Workshop
The main objectives of the workshop were:

  1. To provide students with practical knowledge of network simulation tools such as CISCO Packet Tracer, Wireshark, and NS2 Simulator.
  2. To develop hands-on skills for configuring and analyzing computer networks.
  3. To help students understand network protocols, traffic analysis, and simulation of network scenarios.
  4. To bridge the gap between theoretical networking concepts and real-world applications.
    Summary of the Workshop
    The workshop was conducted as a hands-on interactive session over a period of one day for S6 CSE A and one day for S6 CSE B. The session included:
  • Introduction and overview of network simulation tools.
  • CISCO Packet Tracer: Students learned to design network topologies, configure routers and switches, implement routing protocols, and troubleshoot network issues.
  • Wireshark: Students captured live network traffic, analyzed packet structures, and understood protocol layers and flow.
  • NS2 Simulator: Participants simulated network scenarios, evaluated performance metrics like delay, throughput, and packet loss, and visualized network behavior.
  • Interactive exercises were conducted to ensure participants applied concepts in real time scenarios.
    The workshop was conducted in lab 3, ensuring every participant had access to a system for practical exercises.
    Outcomes of the Workshop
    By the end of the workshop, participants were able to:
  1. Demonstrate proficiency in using CISCO Packet Tracer for creating and troubleshooting network topologies.
  2. Use Wireshark to capture and analyze network packets for network diagnostics.
  3. Apply theoretical networking concepts in real-time simulation environments.
  4. Gain confidence in network analysis, troubleshooting, and design skills, enhancing employability in network administration and research projects.
    Faculty Coordinators
  5. Kavitha S, AP CSE Department
  6. Anisree P G, AP CSE Department
    Resource Person
    Sudhesh K M is a researcher in Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore. His research focuses on deep learning, interpretable AI, and real-world computer vision applications. He has delivered seminars on Generative AI across schools, polytechnic institutions, and engineering colleges, and has conducted hands-on workshops on deep learning and machine learning models. He has collaborated with Kerala Agricultural University to develop plant disease
    detection applications in native languages, promoting accessible AI solutions for agriculture. His research contributions are published in reputed international journals and conferences, and his work has received over 120 citations, with a significant impact in the area of AI-based disease detection. His Google Scholar profile reflects consistent research engagement in applied AI and computer vision systems.
    Conclusion
    The workshop successfully enhanced participants’ practical understanding of networking concepts for the subject CST 332 – Network Lab and equipped them with valuable skills in network simulation, analysis, and troubleshooting. Students actively engaged in hands-on
    exercises, gaining insights that will be useful in academic projects, internships, and professional careers in networking and IT fields.