Picking the Right Network Simulator for Your Cisco CCNA, CCNP, CCIE Exam Prep

Prepping for a Cisco cert like CCNA, CCNP, or CCIE? You know it takes more than just book smarts. You need hands-on lab time to really nail the real-world stuff. If you don't have racks of physical gear lying around (who does?), network simulators and emulators are your best bet for practicing Cisco labs virtually.

This article breaks down five popular options to help you get ready for your Cisco exams.

Quick Comparison: Simulators & Emulators

Here's a fast look at common tools, what they're good for, and the cost factor. Keep in mind, "free" tools often need more setup effort or your own OS images.

Recommendations by Cisco Exam Level

The right tool often depends on which exam you're gunning for. As you move up from CCNA to CCIE, the labs get way more complex, often needing serious hardware or a cloud-based solution.

What Are Network Simulators Anyway?

These are software tools that let you build and test virtual networks without buying actual hardware. You can spin up virtual routers, switches, firewalls, etc., in a safe sandbox environment. For Cisco prep, they give you crucial hands-on time with Cisco IOS/NX-OS commands right on your computer.

Using them is usually cheaper than buying real gear, flexible (practice whenever!), provides realistic config practice, and scales from basic labs to complex scenarios.

Network Simulators vs Network Emulators: What's the Difference?

It helps to know the lingo:

• Network Simulators: Tools like Packet Tracer mimic how devices behave using their own simulated software models. They're easier on your computer's resources (good for CCNA) but might not support every single command or behave exactly like real hardware.
• Network Emulators: Tools like GNS3, CML, and EVE-NG actually run the real network operating system images (like Cisco IOS or NX-OS) inside virtual machines. This gives you a much higher fidelity experience, essential for CCNP and especially CCIE. The catch? They need a lot more CPU and RAM from your computer.

Best Network Simulation and Emulation Platforms for Cisco Exams

Let's look closer at our top choices:

Cisco Packet Tracer

Best For: Beginners & CCNA students

Runs On: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Cost: Free (requires free Cisco NetAcad account)

Packet Tracer is Cisco's own tool, built mainly for Networking Academy students. It uses a simple drag-and-drop interface and has a simulation mode where you can actually watch packets move through the network – pretty neat for understanding the basics.

It simulates common Cisco routers and switches, PCs, and even some IoT stuff. It's easy to use, free, and works on most devices. Perfect for getting your feet wet with CCNA topics.

The Catch: It simulates, it doesn't emulate. This means some advanced features or protocols might be simplified or missing entirely (e.g., limited BGP, no real Layer 3 switching). It's not suitable for CCNP or CCIE labs.

Key Features:

• Simulates routers, switches, PCs, and IoT devices
• Packet-level simulation mode
• Multi-platform support
• Activity wizard for lab assignments

Pros:

• Free to use (after registering with Cisco Networking Academy).
• Very beginner-friendly.
• Available on mobile and desktop platforms.
• Excellent for basic configurations and CCNA fundamentals.

Cons:

• Limited protocol support (e.g., basic OSPF and EIGRP implementations) and lacks true Layer 3 switching.
• Not ideal for CCNP/CCIE due to its simplified simulation model.

Cisco Packet Tracer & Reddit community real-world perspectives

The consensus among Reddit users is that Packet Tracer serves as an excellent entry point for CCNA studies. One r/ccna user summarizes the common sentiment: "Packet Tracer is perfect for beginners, completely free with a Cisco Networking Academy account, and covers most CCNA topics adequately."

However, limitations become immediately apparent for advanced certifications. A network engineer on r/networking notes, "Once you start diving into CCNP protocols, Packet Tracer quickly shows its limitations—it's designed as a learning tool, not a full-fledged emulator."

GNS3 (Graphical Network Simulator-3)

Best for: Intermediate to Advanced learners (CCNP, CCIE)

Runs On: Windows, macOS, Linux

Cost: Free (Open Source)

GNS3 is a powerful emulator. It runs real Cisco IOS/NX-OS images (and others like Juniper Junos, Palo Alto PAN-OS), giving you a much more authentic lab experience. You can easily connect your GNS3 labs to tools like Wireshark for deep packet inspection.

It's great for CCNP and CCIE prep because it behaves like real gear. You get realistic practice without needing physical hardware, and there's a huge online community for support and pre-built labs.

The Catch: You have to legally obtain the OS images yourself (e.g., from Cisco CML licenses, VIRL, or service contracts). It needs more RAM and CPU than Packet Tracer, and the setup can be a bit more involved initially.

Key Features:

• Enables realistic emulation by integrating real IOS images.
• Multi-vendor integration (Juniper, Palo Alto, etc.)
• Highly modifiable topologies with community lab support
• Supports Wireshark for packet-level analysis

Pros:

• Realistic lab experience
• No need for actual hardware
• Strong online community and tutorials

Cons:

• Requires users to supply their own IOS images, which may involve legal and logistical challenges
• Higher system requirements and a steeper learning curve than simulators like Packet Tracer.

GNS3 & Reddit community real-world perspectives

GNS3 receives strong praise for its flexibility and longevity in the community. A 10-year veteran on Reddit on r/ccnp explains their loyalty: "I use GNS3 simply because it's what I've been using for 10+ years now and have had no reason to change. All of my images are still there, every topology I built over the years is still there."

The platform's ability to integrate with third-party tools is frequently cited as a major advantage. "GNS3 allowed me to integrate with Wireshark seamlessly for packet analysis, which was crucial for my CCNP studies," mentions another user.

However, the setup complexity is a recurring complaint: "The initial configuration can be painful compared to alternatives," notes one r/networking contributor.

Cisco Modeling Labs – Personal (CML-P)

Best for: CCNP, CCIE candidates, Network Pros

Runs On: Windows, macOS, Linux

Cost: Paid (annual subscription)

Previously known as VIRL, CML-P is Cisco’s premium simulator for professionals. It comes bundled with licensed Cisco OS images (IOS, NX-OS, IOS XR, etc.), so you don't need to hunt them down separately. It's designed for accurately modeling and testing real-world networks, making it a solid choice for CCNP and CCIE prep.

The Catch: It costs money annually. The node limits might be restrictive for massive CCIE labs on the lower tier. It requires a fairly beefy machine to run well locally.

Key Features:

• Offers precise network simulations with automated topology creation and modern Drag-and-drop UI interface.
• Supports 20+ virtual devices
• Multi-protocol support
• Real-world topology emulation
• Comes in editions like Personal ($199/year for 20 nodes) and Personal Plus ($349/year for 40 nodes).

Pros:

• Guaranteed compatibility with Cisco exam requirements and real IOS support.
• High accuracy in simulation
• Great for enterprise network modeling
• Regular updates and Cisco-backed technical support.

Cons:

• Requires paid subscription compared to free alternatives.
• Limited by node counts and less flexibility in active topology modification compared to some emulators.
• Heavy on system resources

Cisco Modeling Labs & Reddit community real-world perspectives

CML receives mixed feedback, with many acknowledging its accuracy while questioning its value proposition. A Reddit thread on r/ccnp titled "Which one do you prefer? CML, GNS3, EVE-NG" reveals divided opinions, with one user noting: "I have been using CML on Devnet time to time and I gotta say that there is something that I really don't like. For some damn reason, I can't get it to work properly with external connectivity."

However, CML's authenticity is unquestioned. "CML provides the most accurate Cisco environment since it's literally running the same software as the physical devices," confirms a CCIE holder.

The licensing cost remains the primary barrier, with a Reddit user summarizing: "CML is great if you can afford it or your company pays for it, but hard to justify the expense for individual study when alternatives exist."

EVE-NG (Emulated Virtual Environment – Next Generation)

Best for: Advanced learners, CCNP/CCIE candidates

Runs On: Windows, macOS, Linux (usually run as a VM, accessed via web browser)

Cost: Free (Community), Paid (Pro version)

EVE-NG is another professional-grade emulator that's hugely popular, especially among CCIE candidates. It supports Cisco and many other vendors (Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet, F5, etc.). It runs as a Linux VM, and you access your labs through a web browser, which many find convenient.

EVE-NG is available in two editions: Community and Professional. The Community Edition is free to use but comes with certain limitations compared to the paid Professional Edition. The Pro version adds features like hot-adding links, lab timers, and more simultaneous users.

It can handle very large, complex topologies needed for CCIE labs (especially the Pro version). Its multi-vendor support is a big plus.

Key Features:

• Web-based interface that makes it accessible from any browser.
• Supports images from Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, etc.
• Scalable and capable of handling complex, resource-intensive network topologies.

Pros:

• Excellent for multi-vendor labs
• Community-shared labs available
• Scalable for complex topologies
• Powerful tool for CCNP/CCIE preparation, particularly when using the Professional Edition ($110/year).
• Flexible deployment options and extensive device support.

Cons:

• Demands higher system specifications and involves a steeper learning curve for beginners.
• Requires separate acquisition of IOS images (in some cases).

EVE-NG & Reddit community real-world perspectives

EVE-NG has gained significant traction in recent years, with many users switching from GNS3. A popular Reddit post on r/ccnp titled "If you're using GNS3, switch to EVE-NG" gathered substantial agreement, with the author explaining: "I was a hardcore GNS3 user... However, I just got EVE-NG running and I'm blown away by how much better it is."

The web interface receives particular praise, as one r/networking user states: "EVE-NG is far superior in my opinion to GNS3 if you're sharing use of it among a team. It's a simple web interface with nothing to really install on your computer."

Community members consistently highlight EVE-NG's stability for complex topologies. "With EVE-NG, I haven't experienced the random crashes I used to get with GNS3 when building large enterprise networks," reports one CCIE candidate.

Boson NetSim

Best for: CCNA and CCNP learners

Runs On: Windows

Cost: Paid

Boson NetSim is a premium simulator specifically designed for Cisco exam prep. Its biggest strength is the library of pre-built, structured labs that align directly with CCNA and CCNP ENCOR exam topics. The command-line interface feels very close to real Cisco IOS.

It's great if you want guided practice directly tied to exam objectives.

The Catch: It's paid software. It simulates, so it has limitations compared to emulators for deep dives or off-script experimentation. It's Windows-only. Less flexible for building custom topologies compared to GNS3/EVE-NG/CML.

Key Features:

• Over 100+ structured labs
• Custom lab creation and structured learning materials.
• Exam-like CLI interface

Pros:

• Provides an interface that closely resembles the actual Cisco console.
• Tailored for CCNA and CCNP candidates with detailed, exam-focused simulations.

Cons:

• Paid software (approximately $179/year).
• Focused only on Cisco
• Limited topology customization and flexibility compared to open-source options.

Boson NetSim & Reddit community real-world perspectives

While less frequently discussed on Reddit compared to other options, Boson NetSim users value its certification-focused approach. "Boson's labs are directly aligned with exam objectives, which saved me considerable time when preparing for my CCNA," shares one successful candidate.

Another user appreciates the structured approach: "NetSim forces you to understand the 'why' behind configurations rather than just copying commands."

Read more: 

CloudMyLab Hosted Emulators: Overcoming Hardware Constraints

One of the recurring challenges across emulators is the high local resource requirement. CloudMyLab solves this by hosting GNS3, EVE-NG, or CML on enterprise-grade cloud infrastructure.

With CloudMyLab, you don't need a beastly local machine. You get:

• Access to GNS3, EVE-NG Pro, or CML hosted in the cloud.
• Enough CPU/RAM resources allocated for complex labs.
• A managed environment – no need to install or maintain the emulator VM yourself.
• Full control over building your own topologies.
• 24/7 support from certified engineers.
• Reliable access with a 99.9% SLA.
• Pay-as-you-go pricing (starting around $0.04/hour), avoiding big hardware costs.

CloudMyLab’s Hosted Solutions & Reddit community real-world perspectives

A notable trend emerging across recent discussions is the shift toward hosted solutions. As one r/networking user explains: "Running these emulators locally requires significant resources. I've switched to using CloudMyLab's hosted environment for my EVE-NG labs, which means I can access everything from my laptop without melting it."

This sentiment is echoed in a rack rental review thread where a user mentions: "Having a cloud-hosted lab environment removes all the hardware headaches and lets me focus on actually learning."

What is the best Cisco simulator?

Honestly? There's no single "best" one. It truly depends on where you are in your certification journey and your budget/resources.

Below is the detailed comparison but the TLDR is:

• CCNA: Packet Tracer is usually enough to start.
• CCNP/CCIE: You need an emulator. GNS3, EVE-NG, or CML are the top choices. EVE-NG seems to be gaining a lot of traction for advanced labs due to its stability and web UI. GNS3 remains a solid, flexible free option if you have images. CML is great for authenticity if the cost and node limits work for you. With CloudMyLab you are in great company. Read more: CCNP Exam costs.
• Hardware Woes?: If your PC struggles or you just don't want the setup hassle, CloudMyLab's hosted options give you access to GNS3, EVE-NG, or CML without needing a powerful local machine.

Detailed Comparison and Feature Matrix

What's Next?

The verdict is clear from professionals across the networking community: there's no single "best" simulator for Cisco exams. As one experienced network engineer on r/ccnp perfectly summed it up: "The best simulator is the one that fits your learning style, budget, and specific certification goals. I've used all three (GNS3, EVE-NG, CML) at different points in my career, and they all have their place."

What stands out in recent discussions is the growing shift toward hosted lab environments. The days of struggling with resource-intensive local installations, hunting down compatible images, and troubleshooting configuration issues are becoming optional rather than mandatory. This trend reflects a maturing industry where professionals increasingly value their time and focus on skill development rather than infrastructure management.

Where do you go from here? Consider these strategic next steps:

• Assess your current situation - What certification are you targeting? What resources (time, hardware, budget) do you have available? Be honest about your constraints.
• Start small, scale up - Begin with Packet Tracer for CCNA fundamentals, then graduate to more robust solutions as your skills advance. There's no shame in using the right tool for your current level.
• Explore hosted options - If you're tired of fighting with local installations or your hardware is struggling to keep up, CloudMyLab's hosted environments offer immediate access to high-performance lab platforms without the setup headaches.

Ready to start labbing without the headaches? Visit CloudMyLab to see our range of hosted lab environments and training resources Questions? Our team is standing by at support@cloudmylab.com or via live chat on our website

(Optional) Advanced Training:

Looking for structured, intensive training?

Cisco ACI Bootcamp: Deep dive into SDN with real ACI fabric labs. Check out our Cisco ACI Bootcamp

SD-WAN: Get practical SD-WAN skills in dedicated lab environments.

CCIE Security: The CCIE Security lab mirrors modern security hurdles, using Cisco's current security gear. Our guide breaks down the lab's layout, the gear involved (physical and virtual), the security zones, and how to approach implementing solutions within this environment.

FAQs

Which is the best simulator for CCNA?

Cisco Packet Tracer is the most popular and best-suited simulator for CCNA beginners. However, if you're looking for a solution that can grow with you beyond CCNA, CloudMyLab's hosted environments offer Packet Tracer-like simplicity with the ability to scale as your certification journey advances.

Can I use GNS3 for CCIE preparation?

Yes! GNS3 supports real IOS images and is great for CCIE-level labs. Many CCIE candidates prefer using CloudMyLab's hosted GNS3 solution to avoid the heavy resource requirements that complex CCIE topologies demand from local machines.

Is Cisco Packet Tracer enough to pass CCNA?

It’s good for understanding basic concepts, but pairing it with theoretical study is essential.

What’s the difference between a simulator and an emulator?

Simulators mimic behavior without using real OS, while emulators use real images (like GNS3 and EVE-NG). Emulators provide more accurate representations of real-world environments but typically require more resources—a constraint that hosted solutions like CloudMyLab effectively eliminate.

What are the hardware requirements for GNS3 or EVE-NG?

You need a powerful PC/laptop (at least 8–16GB RAM and multi-core CPU). This is one of the primary reasons many professionals choose CloudMyLab's hosted solutions—they eliminate hardware constraints entirely, allowing you to run complex labs even from basic laptops.

Can I run EVE-NG in the cloud?

Yes, you can deploy EVE-NG on cloud platforms like GCP or AWS, though this requires cloud engineering knowledge. For a turnkey solution, CloudMyLab provides fully managed EVE-NG environments with 24/7 support and no cloud configuration required.

Is Cisco CML free for students?

No, Cisco CML requires a subscription even for personal use.

Can I simulate firewalls in these tools?

Yes, GNS3 and EVE-NG support third-party firewall images like Palo Alto, Fortinet, etc. CloudMyLab's hosted environments come pre-configured with a wide range of security appliance images, saving you the trouble of sourcing and configuring them yourself.

Does the CCNA exam have simulations?

Yes, the CCNA exam includes simulation questions where you must configure or troubleshoot networks in a simulated environment. These are designed to test your practical skills, not just theoretical knowledge. Practicing with tools like Packet Tracer or GNS3 is essential for preparing for these simulation questions.

Is GNS3 better than Packet Tracer?

It depends on your needs. GNS3 is more powerful and realistic since it runs actual IOS images, making it better for advanced studies (CCNP/CCIE). Packet Tracer is easier to use, requires fewer resources, and is sufficient for CCNA preparation. Many professionals start with Packet Tracer and graduate to GNS3 as they advance.

What are the best network simulators for Cisco exams according to Reddit?

Reddit discussions in communities like r/ccna, r/ccnp, and r/networking show varied preferences based on certification level. Often Packet Tracer for CCNA, then GNS3 or EVE-NG for CCNP/CCIE are mentioned. You'll also see increasing mentions of hosted labs like CloudMyLab to avoid the local hardware limitations of emulators.