NetSim logo

NetSim

by Boson Software, LLC · Since 1999
No reviews yet
ActiveAvailable globallyCloud
Quick facts
VendorBoson Software, LLC
Year launched1999
StatusActive
Location25 Century Blvd Ste 500, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
Countries servedGlobal
Languages1
IntegrationsN/A
Free tierNO
Free trialYES
Contact salesNO

About NetSim

NetSim is a network simulator for IT professionals and students preparing for Cisco certifications.

Boson NetSim is a web-based network simulator designed for IT professionals and students preparing for Cisco certification exams like CCNA, ENCOR, and ENARSI. The platform allows users to build and configure virtual network topologies, providing hands-on experience with the Cisco IOS command structure without the need for expensive physical hardware. Key features include a Network Designer for creating custom labs, a comprehensive library of pre-configured guided labs, and instant grading to provide feedback on configurations. As a cloud-based tool, NetSim is accessible on any modern browser and device, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, with no installation needed. Pricing is based on annual subscriptions for specific certification modules or smaller lab packs. Support is available via email and phone, with extensive documentation provided in a dedicated help center.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Synchronizes lab progress across various devices and modern web browsers automatically.
  • Includes pre-packaged Cisco IOS image behavior eliminating separate licensing expenses.
  • Provides browser-based lab environments without complex local software installation needs.
  • Offers automated configuration grading to pinpoint syntax mistakes and structural errors.
  • Features a canvas-based Network Designer to construct custom topologies freely.
Cons
  • Does not offer a perpetual license option for single one-time software purchases.
  • Custom canvas designer options can feel restricted compared to full enterprise CAD tools.
  • Requires a continuous active internet connection for web-based access and lab syncing.
  • Does not include direct real-time chat assistance inside the simulation canvas UI.
  • Lacks real-world hardware packet level inspection tools native to physical network gear.

Features

Key features

Network Simulation

Simulates Cisco's hardware and software, allowing users to practice with the Cisco IOS command structure in a virtual environment.

Network Designer

Build custom labs and complex network topologies with a drag-and-drop interface.

Pre-configured Labs

Includes a library of guided labs designed for certification topics, with clear explanations and objectives.

Cross-Platform Access

Accessible via modern web browsers on various devices, including Macs, Linux, and Windows, with no installation required.

Instant Feedback and Grading

Allows users to compare their configurations against the expected solution to track mistakes and receive immediate feedback.

Additional features

Customizable Topologies

Add devices, connections, annotations, and custom icons to lab designs.

Lab Progress Syncing

Save and sync lab progress across multiple devices to pick up where you left off.

Included IOS Images

Comes with all necessary materials, including IOS images, to complete the labs.

Lab Packs

Offers smaller, topic-specific lab packs for areas like IPv4 Subnetting, VLSM, and Troubleshooting.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
Request a quote
Promo Offer

Annual plans

NetSim 200-301 CCNA
USD 179/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 14.92/mo
  • 200-301 CCNA
  • 101 Guided Labs
  • Network Designer

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →
350-401 ENCOR
USD 179/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 14.92/mo
  • 350-401 ENCOR
  • 77 Guided Labs
  • Network Designer

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →
300-410 ENARSI
USD 179/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 14.92/mo
  • 300-410 ENARSI
  • 70 Guided Labs
  • Network Designer

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →
IPv4 Subnetting Lab Pack
USD 29/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 2.42/mo
  • IPv4 Subnetting
  • 10 Guided Labs

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →
Lab Pack: VLSM
USD 29/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 2.42/mo
  • VLSM
  • 10 Guided Labs

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →
Troubleshooting Lab Pack
USD 29/yr
per user · billed yearly · ≈ USD 2.42/mo
  • 16 Guided Labs

Price is per year.

Source: vendor pricing page →

Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
1
Interface languages
1
Billing currencies

Interface languages

English

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD

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