Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Cloonix VS Cisco VIRL

Compare Cloonix VS Cisco VIRL and see what are their differences

Cloonix logo Cloonix

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

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.
  • Cloonix Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-14
  • Cisco VIRL Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-19

Cloonix features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Cloonix provides a graphical user interface that simplifies the management of virtualized network environments, making it accessible even to users with limited networking experience.
  • Flexible Network Emulation
    It offers the ability to emulate complex network topologies, allowing users to test various configurations and scenarios in a controlled environment.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source software, Cloonix allows users to modify and adapt the tool according to their specific needs without licensing costs.
  • Lightweight Solution
    Cloonix is designed to be lightweight, which means it can run on limited hardware resources while still providing robust network emulation capabilities.
  • Active Community Support
    Users of Cloonix have access to community support where they can share insights, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate on projects.

Possible disadvantages of Cloonix

  • Limited Documentation
    The documentation for Cloonix may not be as comprehensive as some other tools, potentially making it challenging for new users to fully utilize all features.
  • Steeper Learning Curve for Advanced Use
    While basic features are easy to use, more advanced functionalities may require a deeper understanding of networking concepts, which can be a barrier for beginners.
  • Compatibility Concerns
    Some users might experience compatibility issues with certain operating systems or other software components, restricting integration and use.
  • Less Commercial Support
    As an open-source project, Cloonix might not offer the same level of commercial support or service as paid network simulation tools, which could be a disadvantage for enterprise environments.
  • Resource Constraints
    Although it is lightweight, Cloonix may still face limitations when scaling up to extremely large or complex virtual network scenarios compared to more robust commercial alternatives.

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.

Cloonix videos

No Cloonix videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

Add video

Cisco VIRL videos

A Review of Cisco VIRL

More videos:

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

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Cloonix and Cisco VIRL)
Tool
51 51%
49% 49
Simulation Software
51 51%
49% 49
Technical Computing
51 51%
49% 49
Numerical Computation
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using Cloonix and Cisco VIRL. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

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.

Cloonix mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Cloonix yet. Tracking of Cloonix recommendations started around Mar 2022.

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: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Cloonix and Cisco VIRL, you can also consider the following products

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

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

IMUNES - IMUNES is a cost-effective and efficient Integrated Multiprotocol Network Simulator/Emulator that functions as a tool for Linux and FreeBSD.

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

Mininet - Mininet is a robust and inexpensive Instant Virtual Network designed to function on standard PCs like Laptops and Desktops.

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.