Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

GNS3 VS NetSim

Compare GNS3 VS NetSim and see what are their differences

GNS3 logo GNS3

GNS3 is a graphical network simulator that allows simulation of complex networks.

NetSim logo NetSim

NetSim software was created to simulate various Cisco systems. Cisco software is known around the world as being one of the best network, routing and switch systems for businesses and private use. Read more about NetSim.
  • GNS3 Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-06
  • NetSim Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-17

GNS3 features and specs

  • Realistic Network Simulation
    GNS3 provides a highly realistic environment for simulating complex networks, allowing users to design and test their network setups with real-world accuracy.
  • Wide Device Support
    It supports a wide range of network devices and software, including Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, and virtual machines, enabling diverse network topologies.
  • Free and Open-Source
    GNS3 is freely available and open-source, making it accessible to anyone without requiring a commercial license or subscription.
  • Community Support
    There is a large and active community of GNS3 users who provide support, share resources, and contribute to its development.
  • Extensive Learning Resources
    GNS3 has a vast array of tutorials, documentation, and guides that help users of all skill levels learn how to effectively use the tool.

Possible disadvantages of GNS3

  • Resource Intensive
    GNS3 can be very demanding on system resources, requiring significant CPU and memory, which may be challenging for users with lower-end hardware.
  • Steep Learning Curve
    For beginners, GNS3 can present a steep learning curve due to its complexity and the detailed knowledge required to effectively set up and manage network simulations.
  • Limited by Hardware Performance
    The performance and scale of simulations can be limited by the hardware of the host system, affecting the ability to run large or complex network topologies.
  • Initial Configuration Complexity
    The initial setup and configuration of GNS3, including the integration of virtual devices and images, can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Occasional Stability Issues
    Users may encounter stability issues or bugs, especially when integrating a variety of virtual devices and software versions, which can disrupt simulation activities.

NetSim features and specs

  • Comprehensive Lab Exercises
    NetSim offers a wide variety of lab exercises that cover different levels of networking expertise from beginner to advanced. This helps users gain practical experience and a deep understanding of networking concepts.
  • Realistic Network Simulations
    NetSim provides realistic network simulations that closely mimic actual networking environments. This provides users with a genuine feel of working with real networking hardware and configuration scenarios.
  • Learning Mode and Skill Building
    The platform includes interactive learning modes that aid in skill building. These modes guide users through lab exercises, offering hints and feedback to ensure a smooth learning curve.
  • Versatility
    NetSim is versatile and can be used for certifications like Cisco's CCNA, CCNP, and others. This makes it a good investment for those who are pursuing multiple certifications.
  • Cost-effective
    Compared to purchasing actual networking hardware, NetSim is a cost-effective solution for hands-on network training and practice.

Possible disadvantages of NetSim

  • Limited Hardware Interaction
    NetSim is a simulation tool, so it does not provide the physical interaction with networking equipment, which can be a drawback for users wanting to gain experience with actual hardware.
  • Performance Limitations
    Because it is software-based, NetSim may have performance limitations compared to real networking hardware, particularly in handling very large scale or complex network topologies.
  • Dependency on Software Updates
    Users are reliant on Boson to provide regular updates to the software to keep it in line with current networking technologies and certification requirements. Any delay in updates can be a drawback for users.
  • Learning Curve
    While NetSim offers guidance, there is still a learning curve associated with effectively using the software. New users might find it challenging initially.
  • Cost
    Although cost-effective relative to purchasing physical hardware, NetSim itself is a paid software and might be considered expensive for individual learners or small institutions.

GNS3 videos

CCNA Labs - Packet Tracer or GNS3?

More videos:

  • Review - Packet Tracer vs GNS3 vs VIRL vs Physical Equipment (Part 1). Which is best?
  • Review - GNS3 2.1.3 Basic Full Setup Guide For Beginners (2018) Start To Finish

NetSim videos

CCNA Trunking Review with the Boson NetSim!

More videos:

  • Demo - NetSim 13 Demo
  • Demo - Netsim 12 Configuration Demo Lab Walkthrough

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to GNS3 and NetSim)
Technical Computing
45 45%
55% 55
Simulation Software
52 52%
48% 48
Tool
56 56%
44% 44
Numerical Computation
34 34%
66% 66

User comments

Share your experience with using GNS3 and NetSim. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, GNS3 seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 12 times 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.

GNS3 mentions (12)

  • Bug Bounty Hunting 101: An Introduction for Beginners
    Practice: Set up simple networking labs using tools like Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3. - Source: dev.to / 12 months ago
  • Where do I go from here?
    If you mean a Cisco 2950, I guess you want to learn Networking. So a good place to start is to run GNS3 (https://gns3.com). You can download a VM image and run that, that's what I do. GNS3 is a great learning tool and you can use both real (your 2950) and virtual devices to make networks. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Exploiting Wpa3
    GNS3 is the software your looking for it can be found here https://gns3.com let me know if you could use some resources on it. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • What skills are great to learn in a home lab for a beginner in IT ?
    GNS3 is a network device emulator, and more than a few devices requires lots of CPU and RAM resources. You need to pay for a licence for each device you want to emulate. Source: over 2 years ago
  • How to escape from Helpdesk hell ?
    Allow me to introduce you to https://gns3.com/. Source: over 2 years ago
View more

NetSim mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of NetSim yet. Tracking of NetSim recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing GNS3 and NetSim, you can also consider the following products

Cisco Packet Tracer - Download Cisco Packet Tracer, an innovative network simulation and visualization tool used by Cisco Networking Academy students and instructors.

MATLAB - A high-level language and interactive environment for numerical computation, visualization, and programming

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.

Wolfram Mathematica - Mathematica has characterized the cutting edge in specialized processing—and gave the chief calculation environment to a large number of pioneers, instructors, understudies, and others around the globe.

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

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