GNS3 is a powerful tool used widely to simulate networks, which can help you get ready for Cisco certification exams. If you’re an IT pro or a student wanting to boost your networking skills, putting it on your Windows 11 or 10 is a great move.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through installing version 2.2 on your Windows 10 PC. We’ll also share tips on tweaking it to suit your needs and making better designs. So, whether you’re new to this or a networking whiz, keep reading to find out how to install GNS3 on your PC.
Credit: Microsoft
Why is GNS3 a Choice for Windows PCs?
The most common tool for getting ready for Cisco exams is GNS3. With this software, you can make perfect network designs because it lets you install authentic IOS images of routers and switches.
GNS3 is one of the top choices for preparing for Cisco exams. It lets you work with images of LAN devices like routers and switches, helping you make better network designs.
It works with Microsoft Windows and has more unique features in its latest versions. One cool feature is WebClient. This lets you see a network project you made right in your web browser, like Google Chrome.
Why do we use GNS3?
This graphical network emulator is a powerful tool for simulating LANs, and it’s widely used in IT and networking industries. It lets you create and test virtual setups using genuine IOS images from routers and switches. But why do people use GNS3?
One big reason is that it gives a safe and low-cost way to try out network designs and setups. You can make complicated setups and test different situations without needing expensive physical gear. This makes it perfect for engineers, students, and anyone who wants to learn about networking without spending too much money.
Another reason is GNS3’s flexibility. It works with lots of different LAN devices and protocols, so you can make custom setups that fit your needs. You can also add new devices and tools to software whenever you need to so you can grow your simulation abilities over time.
Lastly, it is excellent for getting ready for certification exams. You can practice using Cisco IOS commands and setups, which are essential for passing these exams. So, you can make labs that look like real-world LANs, helping you build the skills and knowledge you need for your career.
The Steps To Install GNS3 2.2 on Windows 11 & 10
You can either look at this video or follow the steps below to install GNS3 version 2.2 on your PC.
- First, go to this link and download GNS3 for your Windows system.
- After the download is complete, run the setup file as an admin to start the installation.
- Click “Next” in the Welcome to GNS3 Setup window and then “Next” again after reading the license agreement terms.
- In the Select Start Menu Folder window, keep the default location. In the Select Components window, check the box for the new feature, WebClient, and click “Next.”
- In the Choose Install Location window, pick where you want to install the program and click “Next.”
- Wait while it is installed on your Windows 11 or 10 PC. This will also install WinPcap, Wireshark, VirtViewer, and Npcap.
- After the installation, please open it and install the Localhost settings in the first window you see. Use the default settings unless you have other software installed on your system that needs a specific localhost address or port.
- Once the localhost service is set up, create a new project.
- To add a new Cisco Router image, go to the File menu and choose Preferences. Click the “New” button with “IOS routers” selected under Dynamips in that window.
- Click “Browse” to select the IOS image you downloaded, choose the right image, and add it. Then, decompress the image.
- Keep the default value in the platform window, and set the RAM value based on your computer’s hardware performance.
- Add the network cards you want to use on the Router in the Network Adapters window. Finally, set the Idle-PC value to make sure the IOS image doesn’t use 100% of your processor.
- After selecting the Idle-PC value, close the window. Drag and drop the Router you added from the Devices section to the workspace, design it as needed, and test if it works.
Conclusion
In summary, it is a vital tool for getting ready for the Cisco exams. It lets you work with IOS images of devices like routers and switches. By following the steps in this article, you can easily install GNS3 on your Windows 11 or 10 computer and start making topology designs.
The latest version of this software has even more cool features, like WebClient, which lets you see your project in your web browser. By using this networking tool and following the steps in this article, you can make better LAN designs and do well in your exams.