Cisco Modeling Labs (CML)
Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is an on-premise network simulation platform that allows users to design, test, and troubleshoot virtual networks using authentic Cisco operating systems. It serves as an enterprise-grade environment for network engineers, replacing the previous Virtual Internet Routing Lab (VIRL) products.
Brand Authority Index (BAI): 72/100
Archetype: Challenger
Category: Networking Hardware & Software
https://optimly.ai/brand/cisco-modeling-labs-cml
Last analyzed: April 10, 2026
Verified from Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) website
Founded: 2020 (rebranded from VIRL)
Headquarters: San Jose, CA
Buyer Intent Signals for Cisco Modeling Labs (CML)
Problems this brand solves
- Physical Hardware Lab: Engineers manually configure physical switches and routers in a dedicated lab space.
Buyers search for
- best network simulation software for enterprises
- official cisco network lab emulator
- network lab virtualization for devops teams
- Cisco VIRL alternative
- browser-based network topology builder
- Generic Virtualization (ESXi/VirtualBox): Using general-purpose virtualization software like VMware or VirtualBox to run network operating system images.
- GNS3 (Graphical Network Simulator-3): Using the open-source community-driven network emulator (often for CCNA/CCNP study).