Role of packet tracer in simulating server services on the client-server computer network

Abstract

In a client-server architecture, a server is dedicated to providing various services, functions, and resources to serve its clients' requests over a computer network. To understand and expertise this concept, a lot of exercises are critically needed. This aims to improve learners' practical skills as well as to expand their knowledge. However, a real client-server network with the representative servers and network devices is costly. It is sometimes not available for the experiment and trial. In this case, a network simulator can be a reasonable substitute. This study uses Cisco Packet Tracer to simulate various server services such as DHCP, HTTP, DNS, FTP, Email, NTP, Firewall and IoT Registration Server. The mini-project simulation is proposed to explore the capabilities of the simulator to providing a wide range of server services. All settings and testing are visualized followed by the discussion of each result. It is expected that by practicing and mastering this mini-project simulation, learners can first build the client-server network using proper devices, wiring, naming, and addressing on a single monitor. Second, they can understand all the server parameters and then able to configure them step by step. And third, they can easily conduct testing, tracing and troubleshooting afterward. Furthermore, this work has a goal to build a bridge between network theory and practical aspects simultaneously so that learners will have a lot of confidence when working on a real network.