Cisco Packet Tracer is a fantastic network simulator for studying for the Cisco CCNA certification. However, for advanced Cisco certifications like the CCNP or CCIE, you’ll need to work with more advanced technologies, protocols, and real-world network scenarios that Cisco Packet Tracer doesn’t fully support. As you progress in your Cisco certification journey, it’s essential to transition to virtual network devices, which offer a more accurate representation of real networking environments. These devices are often required for CCNP or CCIE-level study and certification. These virtual devices replicate real-world network configurations and allow you to perform realistic, in-depth simulations that are often required for higher-level certifications. While tools like Cisco Packet Tracer are excellent for entry-level certifications like CCNA, they lack the functionality and complexity needed for CCNP and CCIE preparation. This is where Cisco virtual network devices come into play, and acquiring them legally is essential to avoid potential pitfalls related to licensing and system security.
Cisco virtual network devices are available in various formats and can be used within popular network emulation platforms, such as GNS3, EVE-NG, and Cisco Modeling Labs (CML). These emulation platforms allow you to set up sophisticated network topologies and gain hands-on practice with configurations, troubleshooting, and management of Cisco devices.
For those with a Cisco support contract, the process is straightforward: associate your Cisco account with the support contract and download the images directly from Cisco’s Software Download site. These images are compatible with various emulation platforms, such as GNS3 and EVE-NG, and can be deployed on hypervisors like VMware or Microsoft Hyper-V.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a support contract, Cisco Modeling Labs Personal (CML-P) is a great option. It provides access to a suite of Cisco virtual network device images that are regularly updated, ensuring that you’re always working with the latest software versions. CML-P also integrates easily with your study environment, providing a streamlined and legal way to obtain the images you need for CCNP and CCIE preparation.
However, many learners face confusion around the legality of obtaining and using Cisco virtual network devices. In this article, we’ll clarify the legal methods of obtaining Cisco virtual network device images to use in network emulation platforms, ensuring that you can advance your Cisco practice test preparations and certification studies without legal risks or the danger of using unsafe software.
Network Emulation Platforms & Cisco Virtual Network Devices
Before diving into the legal ways to obtain Cisco virtual network devices, let’s explore the most common network emulation platforms and the Cisco virtual devices you’ll likely need for CCNP and CCIE exam preparation. Network emulation platforms are critical in simulating complex network topologies for hands-on practice. These platforms allow you to experiment with real-world Cisco configurations without needing expensive physical hardware. They emulate Cisco devices and software, making them indispensable tools for anyone serious about studying for advanced Cisco certifications.
The top network emulation platforms for Cisco certifications include:
- GNS3: A free, open-source network software emulator used widely in Cisco certification studies. GNS3 supports the integration of real Cisco images, allowing you to simulate devices like routers, switches, firewalls, and more. It supports a wide range of protocols and configurations, making it ideal for preparing for both CCNP and CCIE exams. One of the standout features of GNS3 is its versatility. It supports a wide range of network devices, including Cisco routers, switches, and firewalls, as well as virtual devices from other vendors, such as Juniper and Arista. GNS3 also integrates with third-party tools and virtual environments like VMware, VirtualBox, and Docker, allowing users to extend their simulations beyond Cisco devices. A key advantage of GNS3 is its ability to run real Cisco IOS images, which makes it one of the most accurate emulation platforms available. Unlike simpler simulators like Packet Tracer, which only simulate network behavior without running actual Cisco operating systems, GNS3 allows users to configure and troubleshoot devices as if they were real.However, using GNS3 requires access to real Cisco IOS images, which you can legally obtain through a valid Cisco support contract or as part of a Cisco Modeling Labs (CML-P) subscription. It’s important to ensure that you are using legitimate images, as unauthorized versions may be outdated or compromised, which can negatively affect your studies. While GNS3 provides a high level of control over network emulation, it may require more resources compared to simpler simulators, such as Packet Tracer. Running GNS3 on a computer with sufficient RAM and CPU capacity is essential to ensure smooth performance, especially when simulating large or complex topologies.Overall, GNS3 is a powerful and flexible network emulation platform that provides an invaluable resource for aspiring network professionals and certification candidates.
- EVE-NG: A “freemium” network emulation platform with a robust feature set suitable for small-to-medium lab topologies. Its ability to support multi-vendor environments makes it an excellent choice for those studying for CCNP or CCIE exams. The free version provides enough functionality for students working on small topologies, but the paid version unlocks additional features that enhance the learning experience. One of the key features of EVE-NG is its ability to simulate a wide range of networking technologies using real device images. It supports Cisco IOS, Juniper Junos, Palo Alto PAN-OS, and other vendor-specific images, providing users with the flexibility to simulate multi-vendor environments. EVE-NG’s integration with VMware and VirtualBox enables users to integrate external virtual machines and devices into their network topologies, expanding the emulation environment beyond traditional network devices.Another standout feature of EVE-NG is its web-based interface, which allows users to design, configure, and monitor their network topologies from anywhere, without the need for a dedicated client application. The web interface is intuitive, offering drag-and-drop functionality for adding devices to the topology. This makes it easier for users to create and modify their network designs on the fly. Additionally, EVE-NG allows users to interact with their virtual devices in real time, enabling full configuration and troubleshooting, just like with real physical hardware. Unauthorized use of these images can lead to legal and security issues, so it’s essential to ensure you are using legitimate images for your simulations.
- Cisco Modeling Labs (CML): Cisco’s official proprietary emulator available for individual licensing through an annual subscription. Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is Cisco’s official emulation platform. It is a proprietary tool that provides students and professionals with a more realistic experience of Cisco’s networking technologies. With CML, users can simulate various Cisco devices, including routers, switches, firewalls, and more. Cisco’s official status gives CML an edge in terms of offering access to the most up-to-date and comprehensive virtual devices used in Cisco certification training. Each of these platforms supports various Cisco virtual network devices required for deeper, more technical Cisco certification exam prep. As you study for your CCNP or CCIE, you will likely need to work with devices like the CSR1000v, Catalyst 8000v, and Nexus 9000v, all of which are supported by these platforms. These virtual devices give you hands-on practice with real Cisco software and configurations, ensuring you’re prepared for the practical aspects of the exams. With CML, users have access to both single and multi-device simulations, which is essential when studying for higher-level Cisco certifications. For example, CCNP and CCIE candidates can build complex, multi-area OSPF networks, implement BGP, configure VPNs, and practice advanced security configurations—all in a virtualized environment that mirrors real-world scenarios. Another standout feature of CML is its ability to support topology visualization and the creation of dynamic network models, allowing users to experiment with different network designs and configurations. The platform also supports the creation of virtual labs where students can access pre-built network topologies, ideal for practice exams or hands-on exercises. CML can also integrate with cloud-based platforms and physical Cisco equipment, offering users a diverse range of learning environments. The CML Enterprise version, on the other hand, is geared toward larger organizations and network labs. It offers additional features such as advanced multi-user support, larger topologies, and integration with physical devices, making it ideal for corporate training, advanced research, and large-scale testing. In summary, Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is a powerful and official tool that provides networking professionals and certification candidates with the resources needed to practice and master Cisco technologies.
When studying for more advanced Cisco exams, such as the CCNP or CCIE, these are the Cisco virtual network devices you’ll commonly work with:
- Cloud Services Router (CSR) 1000v : A virtual router optimized for cloud and hybrid environments, allowing users to simulate real-world enterprise routing capabilities.
- Catalyst 8000v Router: A cloud-ready, virtual router that provides high-performance routing, advanced security, and automation for large-scale enterprise networks.
- Catalyst 9000v Switch: Virtual switches that offer advanced layer 2 and layer 3 capabilities, supporting various SDN features for both data center and enterprise network environments.
- Nexus 9000v, 9300v, or 9500v Switches: These virtual switches are ideal for data center and campus network simulations, supporting high-density environments with features like VXLAN and FabricPath for network segmentation and virtualization.
- IOS XRv 9000 Router: A virtual version of Cisco’s IOS XR operating system, commonly used in service provider and high-availability environments. This router is excellent for simulating large-scale, carrier-grade routing scenarios.
- ASAv Firewall: The virtualized version of Cisco’s Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA), offering robust firewall capabilities. It supports virtualized environments and allows hands-on practice with network security concepts.
- IOSv Router: A virtualized version of Cisco’s traditional IOS router, which can simulate many different Cisco technologies and protocols for comprehensive exam preparation.
- IOSv L2 Switch: A virtual Layer 2 switch for simulating network configurations and practice with various switching protocols, including VLANs, STP, and EtherChannel, vital for both CCNP and CCIE studies.
These virtual devices are integral to mastering Cisco’s networking technologies, offering an affordable and scalable solution for building complex, real-world topologies in preparation for Cisco’s most challenging certifications.
Legal Options to Obtain Cisco Virtual Network Device Images
When it comes to obtaining Cisco virtual network device images for use in network emulation platforms, ensuring that you’re following legal and ethical routes is essential. Cisco has a set of licensing policies in place that govern how its software and virtual devices are distributed, and it’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines to avoid potential legal issues and risks associated with malicious software. There are two primary ways to legally obtain Cisco virtual network device images for use in network emulation platforms.
1. Valid Cisco Support Contract Association
If your organization is a Cisco customer, you can associate your Cisco account with a valid support contract. This gives you access to download Cisco virtual network device images from Cisco’s Software Download website. Once downloaded, these images can be used in any network emulation platform, including GNS3 or EVE-NG, and deployed on hypervisors such as VMware’s ESXi, Microsoft’s Hyper-V, or Linux’s KVM. A valid support contract entitles you to download the latest virtual network device images, which can be used in various emulation platforms like GNS3 and EVE-NG. Once associated with your Cisco account, you can download and use these images freely on platforms such as VMware’s ESXi, Microsoft’s Hyper-V, and KVM (Linux). This approach gives you access to the same software that you’d use in a real-world network environment, ensuring that your practice and preparation align with current Cisco products and technologies. It’s important to note that Cisco support contracts are typically linked to organizational use, and the software provided through these contracts is meant for internal use only. If you’re using Cisco images through your company’s support contract, you must adhere to the terms and conditions set by Cisco, which prohibit redistribution or use outside the organization. For personal or independent study purposes, this means you would need permission from your employer to use these images for your own certification prep, especially if you’re working outside of a corporate environment.
Additionally, support contracts often come with the benefit of receiving the latest updates and patches to Cisco’s virtual network devices, ensuring that you are always working with the most current and secure software. This is particularly important in the rapidly evolving field of networking, where new features and improvements are frequently introduced to devices like Nexus switches or ASAv firewalls. As Cisco continues to release updates, these will be accessible through the Software Download site as part of the support contract.
In summary, a valid Cisco support contract is a comprehensive solution for accessing legitimate Cisco virtual network device images. It provides ongoing access to up-to-date software and ensures you are working within legal guidelines, minimizing any risks associated with downloading unauthorized or compromised images. If you are fortunate enough to have access to a support contract, it’s an excellent method to equip yourself with the resources you need for your Cisco certification journey.
Note that this option applies to images downloaded from Cisco’s website and doesn’t extend to Cisco Modeling Labs. If you opt for Cisco Modeling Labs Personal (CML-P), the images it provides are restricted to its platform.
2. Cisco Modeling Labs Personal Subscription
If your employer does not have a valid support contract or if you are a student, purchasing a Cisco Modeling Labs Personal (CML-P) subscription is your legal route to obtaining Cisco virtual network device images. A CML-P subscription is available directly through the Cisco Learning Network Store and provides both the Cisco Modeling Labs software and a set of virtual network device images bundled together. By purchasing a CML-P subscription directly from Cisco through the Cisco Learning Network Store, you gain access to a refplat ISO file, which includes a range of Cisco virtual devices like the CSR1000v, Catalyst 8000v, and ASAv. These devices are integrated into the CML platform, and you can use them to build realistic network topologies, configure devices, and perform advanced simulations—all necessary for in-depth certification study. This subscription service is designed for individuals, students, and independent learners who want to set up and practice network simulations using authentic Cisco devices, especially when preparing for advanced certifications like CCNP or CCIE.
Additionally, the CML-P subscription comes with regular updates, ensuring that you have access to the latest versions of Cisco virtual devices and technologies. This means that as Cisco introduces new features and enhancements, they are promptly integrated into the platform, giving you an up-to-date learning environment. As part of the subscription, you also get access to new devices that Cisco may release, such as newer Nexus or IOS XR models.
One of the key advantages of CML-P is that it is regularly updated with the latest versions of Cisco virtual devices. As Cisco introduces new models or software updates, they are quickly integrated into the CML-P library, ensuring that users have access to the most current technology during their studies. For example, new device models such as the Catalyst 9000v and Catalyst 8000v routers were added to the platform in recent updates, giving users the opportunity to work with cutting-edge networking technologies as they prepare for certification exams.
These images are available in a “refplat ISO” file, which you can download separately from the network emulation platform. The refplat ISO contains a variety of Cisco virtual network devices, which are regularly updated with the latest versions.
A key benefit of a CML-P subscription is its continuous updates. These images are updated alongside each release of Cisco Modeling Labs. Additionally, as new Cisco virtual devices are introduced, they are quickly incorporated into the CML refplat ISO, so you’ll always have access to the latest features and technologies during your Cisco exam preparations. However, one limitation of CML-P is that the virtual network device images provided as part of the subscription can only be used within the Cisco Modeling Labs platform. These images cannot be extracted and used in other emulation platforms like GNS3 or EVE-NG without violating Cisco’s terms of service. This is a crucial consideration if you prefer using other platforms for your labs.
Despite this limitation, CML-P is an excellent, legal way for individuals to access Cisco virtual network devices and enhance their preparation for Cisco certification exams. By offering continuous updates, ease of use, and access to a wide range of devices, CML-P provides an invaluable resource for mastering the advanced concepts required for CCNP and CCIE certification.
Here’s how some virtual network devices are updated across various versions of Cisco Modeling Labs:
The subscription typically costs $199 USD annually, though you may find discounted rates, such as during Black Friday sales.
It’s important to note that, according to Cisco’s terms and conditions, the virtual network device images provided via the CML-P subscription are only licensed for use within the Cisco Modeling Labs platform. Using these images in other emulation platforms, like GNS3 or EVE-NG, without a proper license is prohibited. By following these legal methods, you can safely and effectively obtain Cisco virtual network device images to enhance your Cisco certification studies, ensuring both compliance and security in your preparation for your Cisco exams.
Conclusion
Transitioning from Cisco Packet Tracer to Cisco virtual network devices is a significant step for those preparing for advanced certifications like the CCNP and CCIE. However, it’s essential to follow legal avenues to obtain these virtual network device images to avoid legal issues or exposure to potentially harmful software.
By leveraging the legal methods described, such as a Cisco Support Contract or a CML-P subscription, you’ll be able to enhance your study environment and gain the hands-on experience needed for passing your Cisco exams. With access to up-to-date images in a legal and secure manner, you can confidently prepare for your Cisco certification exams, and use Cisco practice tests and Cisco dumps as supplementary tools for a well-rounded study approach.
These legal avenues also protect you from the risks associated with downloading unauthorized or pirated software, which can be compromised and harmful to your system.
Moreover, using legal, authorized sources for your virtual network devices enables you to work within the terms of Cisco’s licensing agreements, ensuring that you’re compliant with their policies while also maintaining the integrity of your study materials. Whether you’re configuring CSR1000v routers, deploying Nexus switches, or fine-tuning ASAv firewalls, working with authentic Cisco images ensures you have the most accurate and effective tools to prepare for your Cisco exams.
As you advance toward obtaining your Cisco certifications, focusing on legitimate resources not only helps you succeed in your studies but also protects your systems from potential risks. Following the correct procedures for acquiring Cisco virtual network devices ensures that you are prepared, both legally and technically, to pass your certification exams and build a successful career in networking.
