GNS3 (Graphical Network Simulator-3) is a Cisco equipment simulator. This tool allows you to install the actual Cisco IOS and use them in full simulation on a single computer.
GNS3 allows you to have a virtual Cisco router on your computer. Simply note that GNS3 does not provide IOS, for example, you need to use a Cisco CCO account to download it.
This tool is perfect for preparing for Cisco CCNA, CCNP, CCIP or CCIE certificates.
From my point of view, I use this software to test IOS features. For example, OSPF (redistribution, filtering, authentication, …) is the ideal software for testing.
In other words, a virtual unit (Routers, Switches, Hosts, among other things) allows us to observe the behavior of sending and receiving information over a small LAN or something over the network.
Cisco network simulator program to allow full simulation of two main components:
- Dynamips is an IOS image emulator that can initiate IOS binary images from Cisco Systems.
- Dynagen, a text-mode interface for Dynamips.
GNS3 is free software that runs on multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS X.
Supported Platforms
Currently supported and commonly used Router models are:
- C2600 (2610, 2611, 2620, 2621, 2610X Series, 2620/21/50/51/XM, 2691)
- C3600 (3620, 3640, 3660)
- C3700 (3725, 3745)
- C7200
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