What is the purpose of GNS3?
Getting Started with GNS3 | GNS3 Documentation
GNS3 is used by hundreds of thousands of network engineers worldwide to emulate, configure, test and troubleshoot virtual and real networks. GNS3 allows you to run a small topology consisting of only a few devices on your laptop, to those that have many devices hosted on multiple servers or even hosted in the cloud.\\\\
GNS3 vs Packet Tracer –
| FEATURE | PACKET TRACER | GNS3 |
|---|---|---|
| The Range Connectivity | It renders the facility to have switches, routers and server’s CLI (command line interface) as well as the choice of adding end devices such as Voice Phone, Laptop, PC, etc. | It permits the users to have routers command line interface but does not allow to take the command line interface of switch or any other sort of end user devices. |
| RAM Consumption | It does not consume the actual RAM of the device. | It consumes the actual RAM of the device. The consumption by each router is estimated to be around 512 MB of RAM. |
| Preference for the Freshers | If you are new in the field of networking then it is recommended to start your journey with Packet Tracer, as it is easier to install and function. | As far as the utility of GNS3 is concerned for the newbies, it is best to shift to it only after gaining some experience in the meantime. |
| Cisco IOS Images | It applies the actual Cisco IOS images, and it respond just like a real-time Cisco router would. | It can also respond to Cisco IOS, but you are required to introduce your own IOS images, as it will not come along with this network software emulator tool. |
| Open Source | It is not an open source cross-platform visual simulation tool. | It is an open source network software emulator. |
| IOS Features | It offers simulated IOS with functionality on the grounds of partial features. | GNS3 feature real IOS images that can successfully run in a virtual environment. |
| Catalyst Switches | Simulated Catalyst Switches are present in this cross-platform visual simulation tool. | No Catalyst Switches are present in this network software emulator. |
| ASDM ASA Configuration Support | There is no ASDM ASA Configuration Support offered with Packet Tracer. | ASDM ASA Configuration Support is accessible for the user with GNS3. |
| Cisco Firepower NGIPS (Next-Generation IPS) | Not accessible with this cross-platform visual simulation tool. | Accessible with GNS3 network software emulator. |
| Cisco Firepower Threat Defence Virtual NGFW | In spite of being a popular cross-platform visual simulation tool designed by Cisco, it does not carry this feature. | The popular network software emulator features Cisco Firepower Threat Defence Virtual NGFW. |
| Wi-Fi | It is simulated with LWAPP, WLC, as well as CAPWAP protocol support. | It is not simulated with any such features. |
| 3G/ 4G | It is simulated with 3G/4G support features. | It is not simulated with any sort of 3G/4G support features. |
Conclusion
While evaluating Packet Tracer vs GNS3 above, we have taken into account almost all the vital characteristic features that that necessary to serve both professional and common user’s needs. So, while making a selection of network emulator tool the next time, please make sure to cross-check the features in accordance with your individual or business needs. A comparison like the one above will surely go to the land you up with the smartest choice!
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 4 or more Logical cores – AMD-V / RVI Series or Intel VT-X / EPT |
| Virtualization | Virtualization extensions required. You may need to enable this via your computer’s BIOS. |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM |
| Storage | Solid-state Drive (SDD) with 35 GB available space |
GNS3 Alternatives
The best GNS3 alternatives based on verified products, community votes, reviews and other factors.
Latest update:
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Download Cisco Packet Tracer, an innovative network simulation and visualization tool used by Cisco Networking Academy students and instructors.
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a discrete-event network simulator for internet systems
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Safetica protects companies against insider threats, offers data loss protection, and supports regulatory compliance.
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NetSim software was created to simulate various Cisco systems. Cisco software is known around the world as being one of the best network, routing and switch systems for businesses and private use. Read more about NetSim.
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Verax Systems provides applications covering the entire IT & Telco service lifecycle from definition through provisioning and monitoring up to billing.
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Paessler Multi Server Simulator is inexpensive and robust software that helps you power massive-scale testing.
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Mininet is a robust and inexpensive Instant Virtual Network designed to function on standard PCs like Laptops and Desktops.
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Dynamips is an emulator computer program that was written to emulate Cisco routers.
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The new EVE-NG platform is ready for todays requirements.
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Simulation software to model, simulate, predict, and visualize systems in manufacturing, material handling, healthcare, warehousing, mining, etc.
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VNX is a simple, fast, and highly effective virtualization tool developed to assist you in creating virtual network testbeds automatically, resulting in time-saving.
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Cloonix is an open-source virtual network creation framework based on KVM licensed under the AGPLv3 license.
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OPNET is a next-gen and highly resourceful network simulator tool that enables engineers and other professionals to simulate the performance and output of any network type.
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The VPCS can mimic up to 9 PCs.
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Actran is a finite element-based simulation software to analyze the acoustic behavior of mechanical systems and parts.
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IMUNES is a cost-effective and efficient Integrated Multiprotocol Network Simulator/Emulator that functions as a tool for Linux and FreeBSD.
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Powerful SaaS integration toolkit for SaaS developers – create, amplify, manage and publish native integrations from within your app.
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Cisco VIRL is a next-gen network virtualization and orchestration platform that enables you to accomplish multiple tasks like creating and customizing simulated networks with third-party and Cisco objects by means of a graphical utility.
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This application is set to be utilized as an expansion for GNS3 to naturally produce the arrangement of all Cisco (and ALU later on) system types of gear that are a piece of a virtual topology.
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Kathara is a high-profile container-based network emulation solution developed by Greek Καθαρά.
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Common Open Research Emulator (CORE) is a simple yet robust solution that enables everyone to build their virtual networks.
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Stands for General Neural Simulation System, GENESIS Neural Simulator, is a product stage for the reproduction of neural frameworks going from subcellular segments and biochemical responses to complex models of single neurons, vast systems, and fram…
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Agent.
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A high-level language and interactive environment for numerical computation, visualization, and programming
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Amazon Web Services offers reliable, scalable, and inexpensive cloud computing services. Free to join, pay only for what you use.
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Azure Lab Services provides secure, sharable labs in the cloud for classroom, trial, development and testing, and other scenarios. Build your Windows or Linux virtual cloud lab on Windows or Linux—with a fast and flexible setup.
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Tool for building, changing, and versioning infrastructure safely and efficiently.
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Docker is an open platform that enables developers and system administrators to create distributed applications.
