


We can either get the file from a Cisco device or download it from Cisco’s official website (which requires a valid Cisco account and license agreement) or from an educational website. In this blog, the following three parts will discuss the installation process:Īs previously discussed, we must have an IOS file to install a Cisco device in GNS3. The blog also discusses how to configure a device through a template (from GNS3 Marketplace).

This blog is for the users who want to simulate the router environment in GNS3VM irrespective of the vendors (Cisco, Juniper, etc.) The previous blog explained how to install and configure the GNS3 VM. It only facilitates a platform to use Cisco IOS but does not provide any Cisco IOS itself if someone wants to use any Cisco device in GNS3, they must install that device’s IOS first. GNS3 does not include any Cisco IOS in its default installation since Cisco IOS has copyright laws to protect it. Cisco uses proprietary software called Cisco IOS for its routers and switches. GNS3 (Graphical Network Simulator-3) is a network simulator software used to simulate routers, switches, and other networking devices, and it runs on Cisco IOS.
