Packet tracer tool overview

A packet tracer tool is a network analysis utility. It simulates packet flows by modeling source and destination addresses and protocol characteristics. The tool validates network policies by performing lookups against access rules, NAT, routing, and rate-limiting policies. It also captures and logs detailed tracing information for each packet to assist with policy troubleshooting and debugging.

Use the packet tracer tool to simulate the complete data path of a packet, including slow-path and fast-path modules. This simulation helps verify whether your configured policies allow or deny intended traffic. This tool helps you confirm your policy effectiveness and troubleshoot when your packets are blocked.

Packet capture file

You can use packet capture (PCAP) files to replay complete traffic flows. Make sure your PCAP file contains a single Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or User Datagram Protocol (UDP) flow with up to 100 packets. On replay, the tool initializes client and server entities and synchronizes packet transmission, logging trace results for each packet in the flow.