Cisco Packet Tracer vs Marionnet

Cisco Packet Tracer is a free desktop network simulation and visualization tool for practicing networking, IoT and cybersecurity without physical lab hardware. Simulation Mode lets learners follow data as it travels through a network and analyze traffic. Physical Mode provides practice arranging a device rack and cables. The tool supports adding IoT devices, integrating Python code and practicing network automation. Tutored activities may provide hints, although Cisco says they are available for select courses. Packet Tracer runs on Windows, Linux and macOS, but not on smartphones or tablets. Learners can enroll in Cisco’s free Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer course to download the latest version. Installation opens a Packet Tracer Login window and may direct users to a browser for NetAcad sign-in. Some advanced functions, including multi-user Packet Tracer, require network access. On Ubuntu, Cisco’s instructions use the command line with elevated privileges. The Free plan costs nothing and requires course enrollment to download the latest version.

Marionnet is desktop software for defining, configuring, and running virtual computer networks without physical equipment. A single GNU/Linux host can emulate Ethernet networks containing computers, routers, hubs, switches, and cables. Networks can be reconfigured while running, their diagrams update dynamically, and a gateway can connect the virtual network to the host network. Guest machines use User Mode Linux, while VDE links them and emulates network equipment. The project says guests provide binary compatibility with user-level GNU/Linux software and can run graphical applications such as Wireshark through the host X server. Marionnet is free software under the GNU General Public License, priced at free, with no warranty stated. Linux installation requires x86 or x86_64, root access, and internet access; Windows and macOS users can use the VirtualBox appliance.