Difference between Cisco CML and VIRL (With Table)

As technology grows, there is need for establishing areas where students can also acquire information about technology.

Cisco is a networking academy where students can learn more about computer networking and Cisco products.

Cisco CML and VIRL are both lab environments where students are able to test and learn about Cisco networking products and technology.

The two have been confused by many people as they think they are the same although there is a slight difference between CML and VIRL.

So, what is the difference between Cisco CML and VIRL? CML is a tool that allows network administrators to configure networks using a simulated environment while VIRL is a Cisco tool that allows users to configure labs using an actual router.

For more information about the difference between CML and VIRL in tabular form continue reading the article. You will also get to learn of the similarities between the two.

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Comparison Table (Cisco CML vs VIRL)

Basic Terms	Cisco CML	Cisco VIRL
Definition	It is a tool that allows network administrators to configure networks using a simulated environment.	It is a tool that allows users to configure labs using an actual router.
Full form	It is an abbreviation of Cisco Modeling Lab.	It is an abbreviation of Virtual Internet and Routing Lab.
Scale	It has more scale.	It has less scale.
Intended group	It is intended for customers from enterprise backgrounds.	It is intended for all individuals and training institutions.
Cost	It is costly.	It is comparatively cheaper.
TAC support	Customers are offered TAC support.	Customers are not offered TAC support.

What is Cisco CML?

Cisco Modeling Lab is a tool that allows network administrators to configure networks using a simulated environment. It is an online platform that helps network engineers work with Cisco routers, switches, and access points.

The engineers use simulation software to gain experience on network devices and this enables them to work without purchasing the hardware.

CML is a valuable platform that improves networking skillset. It enables those learning about networking concepts to have without worrying about setting up the equipment.

It is an advanced network simulation platform that provides end-to-end data center services which include servers, storage, virtual machines, and virtualized data center services.

One of its characters is Cisco Modeling and Best Practices (CMBP) which tests and verifies real-world network designs and configuration.

What is VIRL?

VIRL is a tool that allows users to configure labs using an actual router. It consists of Cisco and Juniper network devices and different IOS images.

It is a software package for Cisco networking students to practice, test, and run commands on Cisco routers and switches.

It is designed to build and train the skills of engineers for the networking and communication industry. It enables trainees to get experience before going to the real world.

The characters in VIRL are divided into three. They include; virtual network devices, virtual lab devices, and virtual lab support devices.

The VIRL can be used to simulate complex internetworking scenarios to get well versed with the behavior and performance of the network devices.

Main Difference between Cisco CML and VIRL

CML is a tool that allows network administrators to configure networks using a simulated environment while VIRL is a tool that allows users to configure labs using an actual router.
CML is costly while VIRL is comparatively cheaper.
CML has more scale while VIRL has less scale.
CML is intended for customers from enterprise backgrounds while VIRL is intended for individuals and institutions.
CML stands for Cisco Modeling Lab while VIRL stands for Virtual Internet and Routing Lab.
CML offers TAC support to its customers while VIRL does not offer TAC support to its customers.
CML requires more memory CPU to install and run while VIRL requires comparatively less.
CML does not allow customization of the IOS while VIRL allows.

Similarities between Cisco CML and VIRL

Both are products of Cisco.
Both facilitate communication.
Both are used for network simulation.

Conclusion

CML and VIRL are both Cisco products that enhance communication. For more productivity, one needs a continuous flow of the network.

However, the two are different from each other. The main difference between CML and VIRL is the targeted group. CML targets customers from enterprise backgrounds while VIRL targets individuals and learning institutions.

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