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Cisco Modeling Labs

Verified

On-premise Cisco network simulation with real images and a full API

Network Simulation Software
  • Deployment On Premises
  • Starting price Custom
  • Free trial Not offered
  • Best for SMEs, Enterprises

What is Cisco Modeling Labs?

Cisco Modeling Labs, usually shortened to CML, is Cisco's own network simulation platform and the successor to VIRL. It runs on-premise on workstations and servers, and uses real Cisco images so simulations behave like the production estate rather than an approximation of it. Non-Cisco devices can be modelled alongside them.

The interface is HTML5 and there is a comprehensive API, which matters for anyone wanting labs built and torn down programmatically as part of a CI pipeline rather than clicked together each time. Release 2.10 added an MCP Server so an AI assistant can drive CML through natural language, packet capture streaming into Wireshark while the capture is still running, and node staging priorities to control boot order in large topologies. It is licensed rather than free.

Key Features of Cisco Modeling Labs

  • Simulate networks using real Cisco images
  • Model non-Cisco devices in the same topology
  • Design and troubleshoot from an HTML5 interface
  • Drive labs programmatically through the API
  • Connect an AI assistant via the MCP server
  • Stream packet captures into Wireshark live
  • Set node staging priorities for boot order
  • Run on local workstations or shared servers
  • Scale labs as network estates grow
  • Learn and test without physical hardware

Cisco Modeling Labs Pricing

Licensed

Custom

Buy a licence; figure not published

Free Trial

CML is sold under licence through Cisco rather than as a free download. The product page links to a purchase route but does not publish the price.

Cisco Modeling Labs Specifications

Software Tagline :
On-premise Cisco network simulation with real images and a full API
Deployment :
  • on premises
Subscription Plan :
monthly
Desktop Platforms :
  • web app
Mobile Platforms :
Language Support :
en
Target Audience :
  • smes
  • enterprises
Available Support :
  • email
  • phone
  • training
  • tickets
Integrations :
Cisco IOS/NX-OS/IOS-XR images, Wireshark, MCP-compatible AI tools, CI pipelines
Product Url :
https://developer.cisco.com/modeling-labs/
API Available :
Yes
Free Trial Available :
No
Run On Mobile Browser :
Yes
Free Plan Available :
No
Customization Available :
Yes

Cisco Modeling Labs Screenshots

Cisco Modeling Labs screenshot 1

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GNS3

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Cisco Modeling Labs FAQs

CML is Cisco's on-premise network simulation platform, using real Cisco images so simulated networks behave like production equipment.

CML is the successor to VIRL. Anyone searching for VIRL should look at Cisco Modeling Labs instead.

Yes. Cisco and non-Cisco devices can be modelled in the same topology, though the real Cisco images are the main draw.

An MCP server for driving CML with natural language through an AI tool, live packet capture streaming into Wireshark, and node staging priorities to control lab boot order.

No. It is licensed through Cisco rather than distributed free, and the price is not published on the product page.