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Cisco CCIE Lab Builder VS Cisco VIRL

Compare Cisco CCIE Lab Builder VS Cisco VIRL and see what are their differences

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Cisco CCIE Lab Builder logo Cisco CCIE Lab Builder

Cisco CCIE Lab Builder is a simple yet robust solution that gives you the tools to build, sustain, and archive network topologies of switches and virtual networks.

Cisco VIRL logo Cisco VIRL

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.
  • Cisco CCIE Lab Builder Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-01
  • Cisco VIRL Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-19

Cisco CCIE Lab Builder features and specs

  • Realistic Environment
    The Cisco CCIE Lab Builder offers a realistic lab environment, allowing users to practice on genuine Cisco equipment configurations, which closely mirrors the actual lab exam setup.
  • Flexible Access
    Users can access the lab environment from anywhere, making it convenient for those who wish to practice at their own pace and schedule, without the need for physical equipment.
  • Cost-Effective
    Compared to setting up a personal physical lab with Cisco equipment, the Lab Builder is a more affordable option, providing access to expensive resources at a fraction of the cost.
  • Wide Range of Scenarios
    The Lab Builder includes various scenarios and configurations that cater to different learning paths, helping users prepare for multiple aspects of the CCIE exam.
  • Updated Resources
    Cisco regularly updates the lab scenarios and resources to ensure they are aligned with the current exam topics and technologies.

Possible disadvantages of Cisco CCIE Lab Builder

  • Limited Hours
    The Lab Builder access is time-limited, which might not be sufficient for users who require extensive practice time or need longer sessions for in-depth understanding.
  • Internet Dependency
    Users need a stable and fast internet connection to effectively use the lab environment, which can be a barrier for those with connectivity issues.
  • Learning Curve
    There might be a learning curve in understanding how to navigate and utilize the virtual lab environment, which could be challenging for beginners.
  • Technical Issues
    As with any cloud-based service, users may experience technical issues such as connectivity problems, software glitches, or downtime, potentially disrupting practice sessions.
  • Less Hands-On Experience
    While the virtual environment simulates the real equipment, it does not fully replicate the tactile and practical experience of handling physical hardware.

Cisco VIRL features and specs

  • Realistic Network Simulations
    Cisco VIRL provides a highly realistic simulation of Cisco network devices, allowing users to create and test complex network designs and configurations in a virtual environment.
  • Comprehensive Device Support
    VIRL supports a wide range of Cisco devices and operating systems, enabling users to work with various network topologies and emulate different scenarios encountered in actual networks.
  • Scalability
    The platform allows users to scale their simulations according to their needs, from small lab setups to more extensive network environments, providing flexibility in testing and learning.
  • Educational Resources
    Cisco VIRL is backed by Cisco's comprehensive educational resources and community support, offering a wealth of tutorials, documentation, and community interaction for learning and troubleshooting.
  • API Integration
    Users can integrate their simulations with external applications and tools using the included API, enhancing automation and orchestration capabilities.

Possible disadvantages of Cisco VIRL

  • Cost
    Cisco VIRL requires a paid subscription, which may not be affordable for individuals or small organizations with limited budgets.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running Cisco VIRL simulations can be resource-intensive, requiring substantial CPU, memory, and storage resources, potentially leading to higher costs for hardware or cloud resources.
  • Complex Setup
    Initial setup and configuration can be complex and time-consuming, especially for users who are not familiar with virtualization technologies and network configurations.
  • Limited Vendor Support
    While Cisco VIRL provides comprehensive support for Cisco devices, it has limited support for non-Cisco devices, which may not be suitable for all network simulation needs.
  • Learning Curve
    There is a learning curve associated with mastering Cisco VIRL, which might be challenging for beginners and require additional training or learning resources.

Cisco CCIE Lab Builder videos

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Cisco CCIE Lab Builder for Lab Exam Preparation

Cisco VIRL videos

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A Review of Cisco VIRL

More videos:

  • Review - Cisco VIRL download, installation and configuration (Part 1): Overview

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Cisco CCIE Lab Builder and Cisco VIRL)

Cisco CCIE Lab Builder

Cisco VIRL

Simulation Software
30 30%
Simulation Software
70% 70
Tool
31 31%
Tool
69% 69
Technical Computing
30 30%
Technical Computing
70% 70
Education & Reference
45 45%
Education & Reference
55% 55

User comments

Share your experience with using Cisco CCIE Lab Builder and Cisco VIRL. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Cisco VIRL seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 1 time since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Cisco CCIE Lab Builder mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Cisco CCIE Lab Builder yet. Tracking of Cisco CCIE Lab Builder recommendations started around Jun 2023.

Cisco VIRL mentions (1)

  • Cisco Modeling Labs - Personal
    Just found out my own answer. It is the new version of VIRL stated here: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/virl. Source: about 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Cisco CCIE Lab Builder and Cisco VIRL, you can also consider the following products

FlexSim - Simulation software to model, simulate, predict, and visualize systems in manufacturing, material handling, healthcare, warehousing, mining, etc.

ns-3 - a discrete-event network simulator for internet systems

Paessler Multi Server Simulator - Paessler Multi Server Simulator is inexpensive and robust software that helps you power massive-scale testing.

Cloonix - Cloonix is an open-source virtual network creation framework based on KVM licensed under the AGPLv3 license.

VNX - VNX is a simple, fast, and highly effective virtualization tool developed to assist you in creating virtual network testbeds automatically, resulting in time-saving.

OPNET - 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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