GNS3 alternatives: 2 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave GNS3: you must source your own licensed router and switch images, and bigger labs need a separate VM and lots of RAM. We ranked 2 alternatives by how directly each one replaces GNS3, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. EVE-NG currently ranks first.
No alternatives match these filters.
Show all 2 alternativesThe best GNS3 alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best GNS3 alternative for most people
EVE-NGBrowser-based, clientless labs on a dedicated server, with multi-user features in the paid edition.
Best GNS3 alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
Cisco Modeling LabsCisco's own simulator ships licensed Cisco images, so you don't have to hunt for them yourself.
Best GNS3 alternative for self-hosting
EVE-NGBrowser-based, clientless labs on a dedicated server, with multi-user features in the paid edition.
Best GNS3 alternative for working in the browser
EVE-NGBrowser-based, clientless labs on a dedicated server, with multi-user features in the paid edition.
GNS3 alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to GNS3?
EVE-NG ranks first right now. Browser-based, clientless labs on a dedicated server, with multi-user features in the paid edition.
Is there a free alternative to GNS3?
Yes. EVE-NG (free plan + paid) and Cisco Modeling Labs (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to GNS3?
None of the 2 alternatives in this list is open source.
Why do people switch from GNS3?
The complaints we hear most: you must source your own licensed router and switch images; bigger labs need a separate VM and lots of RAM; mac version is unsigned and needs Gatekeeper workarounds.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces GNS3, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.