To obtain the latest patched refplat image, you must have a valid Cisco CML subscription or utilize the . Prerequisites A valid Cisco CCO account . If using the free version, register for access to CML-Free. Download Process Navigate to the Cisco Software Download portal. Search for "Modeling Labs" .
requires two primary components for deployment: the controller software (delivered as an OVA or bare-metal installer) and the Reference Platforms (Refplat) ISO file . While the controller drives the user interface and orchestration engine, the Refplat ISO provides the virtual machine images—such as IOSv, IOSvL2, NX-OS, and ASAv—needed to simulate network topologies.
In simple terms, the CML is a CD/DVD image file that contains all the virtual machine (VM) images for the different node types that can be run in CML labs. The official Cisco documentation states: "The refplat ISO file contains a VM image for each of the different node types that can be run in CML labs. You cannot start lab simulations in CML without the VM images from the refplat ISO". cisco cml refplat iso download patched
While the idea of getting free access to thousands of dollars worth of router images is tempting, especially for students or engineers on a personal budget, the risks associated with "patched" downloads are severe and multifaceted.
CML allows via the GUI. You can legally add: To obtain the latest patched refplat image, you
Download verified open-source appliances (e.g., Linux, VyOS, PFsens) from their respective vendor sites. 4. Step 3: Modifying and Patching the ISO (Linux Guide)
Delete or move the old .qcow2 file out of the specific node folder. Download Process Navigate to the Cisco Software Download
Upgrading a specific node version (e.g., from Catalyst 9000v 17.9 to 17.12) without waiting for a new CML release.
Cisco’s official support channels, including TAC (Technical Assistance Center), will refuse to support an installation that uses a patched or cracked license. If your CML VM crashes, nodes fail to boot, or a complex topology refuses to converge, you will be entirely alone in troubleshooting. No official patches, bug fixes, or updates will be available to you, leaving you stuck in a potentially broken state.
Ultimate Guide to Cisco CML Refplat ISO Download, Installation, and Patching (2026)
: The free-tier ISO contains a valuable but limited set of nodes. Users typically get access to: