Choosing the right network simulator or emulator is difficult when learning them from scratch as it is not easy to test each program individually. We require suggestions and reviews to select the perfect simulator for our projects. Every simulator has both advantages and disadvantages but it would be good if we choose as per the product requirements. Before we explain them, let us take a look at the foundations as follows.
Network Simulators – A Short Definition
A simulator is a kind of software piece that simulates a network topology that includes one or more network devices. These simulated devices are not network devices also can’t pass live network traffic like real network devices. But these devices are software pieces and pretend to be real network devices with their maximum ability. It will be connected into a simulator with limitations for commands and features through pre-programmed simulations. Some of the popular features are DMVPN and Policy Based Routing that real network devices with the capability of simulated counterparts. The main benefit of simulators is lightweight and they can run like modern computers irrespective of processor, storage, or memory requirements.
We recommend the following top two simulators along with their pros and cons in this blog.
Packet Tracer of Cisco
Boson NetSim
These simulators are used widely for gaining hands-on experience in the lab that brings routing and switching track certifications along with the implementation of the tools for testing network technologies.
Packet Tracer
It is the visual simulation tool of Cisco that simulates network topologies that consists of routers, firewalls, switches, and so on. Packet Tracer is designed as an educational aid NetAcad, the Networking Academy of Cisco but it is the best simulator that helps in learning the beginner-level Cisco Certification such as CCNA, R&S, and CCENT.
Advantages of Packet Tracer
Packet Tracer is no cost and available for free to download
Cross-Platform Compatibility that runs on most operating systems such as Windows, Ubuntu, and macOS.
Packet Tracer has numerous healthy devices to use. Some of them are Routers, Switches, ASA Firewalls, Meraki Server, and so on along with wireless controllers, home routers, and access points.
Variety of connections through crossover copper cables, DCE Serial cables, fiber-optic cables, and crossover console cables.
It makes the lab realistic with remote management, telnet, and SSH.
Simulation model of Packet Tracer is real-time and it helps the user to troubleshoot the connected network instantly.
Limitations of Packet Tracer
Custom Exercise Distribution that forget the activity unless it is saved properly
Unexpected bugs that can be fixed through basic troubleshooting
Packet Tracer has no built-in labs as it is not considered a primary tool.
Boson NetSim
This is an IT Training Organization and it is popular for its high-quality Cisco Certification Exam Coursework along with practical implementation practices. The latest version of this Boson NetSim is 12.2.0.24632 that runs on Windows 10 OS.
Advantages of Boson NetSim
Licensing Maps to clear exams efficiently
Lab Quality depends on price with CLI.
Lab Accessibility within all the applications
Custom Lab Distribution that helps in uploading the topology.
Realistic Terminal Features that simplify copy and paste works.
Device Customization through the addition of modules for network topologies.
Less clicking with user-friendly options for physical configurations.
The Limitations of Boson NetSim
It also has disadvantages as follows
Lack of topology information
Lack of topology customization
Not able to modify active topologies
No simulation modes
No cross-platform compatibility
Conclusion
The choosing of Simulators is about the project requirements or exam practices. We hope this article would help you to pick the best tool as per your Cisco exams. We offer the best CCNA Training in Chennai at SLA with a detailed understanding of Simulators and Emulators. Learn to gain expertise in the hardware and networking field.
