Cisco Packet Tracer OSPF Multi Area

Introduction

Cisco Packet Tracer is a network simulation tool that enables networking professionals to design, configure, simulate, and troubleshoot networks. One of the key features available in the tool is OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) routing protocol support.

OSPF

OSPF is a link-state routing protocol that uses cost as a metric to determine the shortest path to a destination network. OSPF is designed for scalability and fast convergence, making it well suited for large enterprise networks.

There are several areas in OSPF, which enables network engineers to optimize routing by dividing the network into smaller, more manageable sections. OSPF uses a hierarchical structure with a backbone area (Area 0) and multiple non-backbone (area) networks that are interconnected through ABR (Area Border Router).

OSPF can be configured in Cisco Packet Tracer network and tested in various scenarios, including multi-area networks.

Multi Area Configuration

To configure OSPF in multiple areas in Cisco Packet Tracer, follow these steps:

1. Create a network topology in Packet Tracer.

2. Configure IP addresses on all devices in the network.

   Example: Configure IP address 192.168.1.1/24 on Router 1.
   

3. Enable OSPF on all devices.

   Example: Enable OSPF on Router 1 using the command:
   
            Router>enable
            Router#configure terminal
            Router(config)#router ospf 1
            Router(config-router)#network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0
   

4. Configure multiple areas.

   Example: Configure an additional area (Area 1) for Router 2 using the command: 
   
            Router>enable
            Router#configure terminal
            Router(config)#router ospf 1
            Router(config-router)#network 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 area 1
   

5. Configure ABR (Area Border Router).

   Example: Configure Router 2 as the ABR using the following command:
   
            Router>enable
            Router#configure terminal
            Router(config)#router ospf 1
            Router(config-router)#area 1 stub
   

   This command will configure Router 2 as the ABR for Area 1 and stub the area.

Conclusion

Cisco Packet Tracer is an effective network simulation tool for configuring OSPF in multi-areas. Network engineers can use Packet Tracer to design and test OSPF scenarios in different areas, enabling them to optimize network routing and improve network performance.