Install Cisco Packet Tracer on Ubuntu

Installing Cisco Packet Tracer on Ubuntu might look tricky, but don’t worry! This guide will walk you through every step - from downloading to fixing common errors - so you’ll have your simulator up and running in no time.

What Is Cisco Packet Tracer? ​

Cisco Packet Tracer is a powerful network simulator used to practice CCNA and other networking skills. It allows you to create and test virtual network setups with routers, switches, PCs, and IoT devices - all without real hardware.

You can download Packet Tracer for both Windows and Linux directly from Cisco’s official website.

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Step-by-Step: Installing Packet Tracer 8.0.0 on Ubuntu​

Step 1: Download and Open the Installer​

• Download Packet Tracer 8.0.0 from Cisco NetAcad.
• Locate the downloaded file.
• Double-click it - it should open automatically in the Software Center.

If Ubuntu opens it in Archive Manager, right-click → Open With Other Application → Software Install.

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Step 2: Authenticate Installation​

Click Install, then enter your system password when prompted. This ensures only authorized users can install software.
Once authentication is complete, Ubuntu will install Packet Tracer.
If successful, you’ll see a message confirming installation.
If an error appears, don’t panic - follow the troubleshooting section below.

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Troubleshooting Installation ​

If the Software Center shows a “Failed to install” error, try using the terminal method:

sudo dpkg -i packettracer_8.0.0_amd64.deb

If dependencies are missing, install them manually:

sudo apt-get update -y
sudo apt-get install -y libgl1-mesa-glx
sudo apt-get install -y libxcb-xinerama0-dev

After that, reinstall Packet Tracer:

sudo dpkg -i packettracer_8.0.0_amd64.deb

To verify installation:

packettracer

If it launches, you’re good to go!

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Installing Older Versions of Packet Tracer​

If you want an earlier version, the process is nearly identical.

• Download your preferred version.
• Run the installer wizard.
• Accept the license, choose the directory (default is /opt/pt), and click Install.

After installation:

packettracer

Or search “Packet Tracer” from your app launcher.

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Fixing Startup Issues ​

Sometimes Packet Tracer won’t start because Ubuntu removed an old library it needs (libpng12.so.0).
Here’s how to fix it:

sudo cp /etc/apt/sources.list /etc/apt/sources.list.bak
sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list

Add this line at the end:

deb http://mirrors.kernel.org/ubuntu/ xenial main

Then install the missing library:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install libpng12-0

Now restart your terminal and try:

packettracer

It should start normally!

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Final Thoughts ​

Installing Packet Tracer on Ubuntu is a must for anyone preparing for Cisco certifications or learning network administration.
Follow the steps above carefully, and you’ll have a fully functional simulator ready to test your networking skills.

Pro Tip: Always keep your Packet Tracer and system packages up to date to avoid compatibility issues.