Here are three concise headline/description options you can use for web copy, a download page, or a forum post about obtaining the Cisco CML RefPlat ISO (new release). Pick one or combine elements.
Short download title + blurb Title: Cisco CML RefPlat ISO — New Release (Download) Blurb: Download the latest Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) Reference Platform ISO to deploy the RefPlat appliance for lab and virtual infrastructure. Includes updated images, installer, and release notes—verify licensing and compatibility before installing.
Release-note style Title: Cisco CML RefPlat ISO — Release: New (RefPlat) Summary: The new RefPlat ISO for Cisco Modeling Labs provides a streamlined appliance install for Reference Platform deployments. This package contains the full installer ISO, preconfigured images for supported topologies, and updated device templates. Review system requirements and the included release notes prior to deployment.
Forum/post asking for link/help Title: Where to download the new Cisco CML RefPlat ISO? Body: I'm looking for the newest Cisco CML Reference Platform ISO to deploy RefPlat in my lab environment. Need the official download link, checksum, and any notes on compatibility with CML 2.x/3.x and hypervisor requirements. Anyone with an updated mirror or guidance appreciated.
Would you like these rewritten for a specific audience (sysadmin, sales page, or support ticket)?
[Related searches prepared]
The latest version of Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is , released in mid-2025. To get your lab environment running, you must download two separate components: the CML Controller (OVA) Reference Platforms (refplat ISO) Cisco DevNet Where to Download the Latest Files
Depending on your license type, the download location varies: Cisco Modeling Labs - Free - Cisco DevNet
Download the files for CML-Free from Cisco's Software Central (SWC) site. You do not need to download all of the files from a CML- Cisco DevNet How to Install the Cisco CML FREE Tier (Step-by-Step)
The latest Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) 2.9.1 (as of April 2026) continues to use a multi-ISO structure for its reference platforms (refplat)
. Key updates for the newest "refplat" downloads include the following: New Supplemental ISO Images Starting with release 2.9, Cisco transitioned to offering three separate refplat ISO files
for paid versions to manage large image sizes and specialized deployments: Cisco Learning Network Standard Refplat ISO : Includes core routing and switching images like IOSv, IOSv-L2, ASAv , and standard Linux host images. Supplemental Refplat ISO : Now includes images for Catalyst 9800-CL (Wireless Controller), Identity Services Engine (ISE) Splunk Enterprise Catalyst SD-WAN (formerly Viptela). Specialized ISE ISO : A dedicated ISO specifically for larger Cisco DevNet Key Platform Enhancements Docker Container Support
: CML 2.9 introduced native support for Docker container nodes, allowing users to run lightweight containerized applications alongside virtual network devices. IOL Node Support : Newer refplat images include IOL (IOS on Linux)
node types, which are significantly more resource-efficient than traditional VM-based images. Node Disk Image Cloning
: A new feature that allows administrators to clone existing node disk images for faster lab setup. OS Upgrade
: In-place upgrades for recent versions now migrate the underlying host OS to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat). Cisco DevNet Download and Installation : Files are available via the Cisco Software Central
portal. CML-Personal users can access their specific downloads through the Cisco Learning Network Store under "My Account". Application
: Once downloaded, the ISO must be mounted to the CML VM and then copied to the local disk using the "Copy Refplat ISO"
tool in the System Administration Cockpit to ensure images are available for lab nodes. Cisco DevNet mount and copy these new ISO files to your existing CML instance? Cisco Modeling Labs - Free - Cisco DevNet
To download the latest Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) Reference Platform (Refplat) ISO, you must access it through your official license portal rather than a general support page. 📥 How to Download the Latest Refplat ISO
Log in: Access the Cisco Learning Network Store using your CCO (Cisco Connect Online) ID.
Locate Your Purchase: Navigate to My Account > My Orders and find your active CML subscription (Personal, Personal Plus, or Free).
Access Software Downloads: Click the Download button next to your order. This redirects you to the specific software portal.
Select the File: Look for the latest release (e.g., CML 2.9) and find the Reference Platform .iso file (e.g., refplat-20241016-fcs.iso).
Note: New CML versions do not always require a new Refplat ISO; always check the release notes to see if a newer image set is available. 🛠️ Key Files for New Installations For a fresh deployment, you typically need two main files: Controller OVA: The base server virtual machine.
Refplat ISO: Contains the virtual OS images (IOSv, NX-OS, etc.) required to run lab nodes. 🔄 Post-Download: Copying ISO to Disk
Once you have the ISO, you must "register" the images within CML to use them in labs: Copy Refplat ISO to Disk - Cisco Modeling Labs v2.9
The Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) Reference Platforms (RefPlat) ISO is the backbone of any serious network simulation environment. This file contains the actual Cisco IOS images—such as IOSv, NX-OS, and ASAv—that run on top of the CML engine. If you are looking for the latest "cisco cml refplat iso download new" options, this guide covers everything from access requirements to installation. Why the RefPlat ISO is Essential
CML is sold as a platform (the dashboard and engine) and the node definitions (the software images). Without the Reference Platform ISO, your CML installation is just an empty shell. The "new" versions of this ISO are significant because they include: Updated IOS-XE (Cat8000v) images. New SD-WAN controller nodes. Optimized NX-OS 9000v footprints. Security patches for ASAv and Firepower (FTDv). How to Access the Latest Download
To get the official, newest RefPlat ISO, you must follow the authorized Cisco channels. cisco cml refplat iso download new
Cisco Learning Network Store: Most individual users obtain CML through a Personal or Personal Plus license. Once purchased, your access is tied to your Cisco Connection Online (CCO) ID.
Software Central: Navigate to the Cisco Software Download portal. Search for "Cisco Modeling Labs" and look for the "Reference Platforms" section.
Check the Version: Ensure the ISO version matches your CML controller version (e.g., CML 2.7 requires the 2.7.x RefPlat ISO for full compatibility). Step-by-Step: Adding the New ISO to CML
Once you have downloaded the large .iso file (often exceeding 30GB), you need to mount it to your CML virtual machine. For VMware ESXi/Workstation: Upload the ISO to your datastore or local folder. Edit the CML VM settings. Select the CD/DVD drive and "Connect at Power On." Path the drive to your new RefPlat ISO. For Bare Metal:
Copy the ISO to the /var/local/virl2/dropfolder directory via SCP.
Use the CML system administration cockpit (port 9090) to mount the file permanently to the /var/local/virl2/refplat directory. What’s New in Recent RefPlat Releases?
Cisco has transitioned from the older "VIRL" style images to modern, 64-bit virtual platforms. The newest downloads typically feature: IOSv & IOSv-L2: Stable images for R&S labs. CML-IOS-XRv 9000: For service provider simulations.
Ubuntu Nodes: Pre-configured Linux nodes for testing automation scripts (Python, Ansible) within the topology.
Unmanaged Switches: Low-resource nodes for simple connectivity. Troubleshooting Common Download Issues
Slow Download Speeds:The RefPlat ISO is massive. Use a download manager that supports multi-threading or "resume" capabilities, as Cisco’s servers may timeout on standard browser downloads.
Verification:Always check the SHA512 checksum provided on the Cisco download page against your local file. A corrupted ISO will cause "Node Definition" errors inside CML, preventing your virtual routers from booting.
Disk Space:Ensure your CML host has at least 50GB of free space before attempting the download and extraction. The ISO stays mounted, so it consumes storage permanently.
By keeping your CML Reference Platform ISO updated, you ensure that your lab environment mirrors the latest features and command syntax found in modern production data centers and enterprise networks.
To download the new Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) Reference Platform (refplat) ISO, you can access it through the Cisco Software Download portal. Recent updates, including the CML 2.8 Free Tier and version 2.9, have refined the process. How to Download the ISO
Log In: Sign in to the Cisco Software Central with your CCO ID.
Navigate: Search for "Modeling Labs" or follow the path: Cloud and Systems Management > Network Modeling > Modeling Labs.
Select Version: Choose the latest stable release (e.g., 2.9 or the 2.8 Free Tier). Download Files:
Refplat ISO: Look for files named like refplat-20241016-fcs-iso.zip or similar. This contains the node images (IOS, ASAv, Ubuntu).
Note: For version 2.7+, there may be supplemental ISOs for Catalyst SD-WAN or ISE images.
Personal Account Access: If you purchased a personal license, you can also find the download button under "My Account" on the Cisco Learning Network Store. The Architect of Echoes
The download bar crawled with the agonizing patience of a glacier. At 98%, Elias drummed his fingers on the desk, the blue light of his monitor reflecting in his weary eyes. Outside, the city of Oakhaven was silent, but inside his workstation, a world was waiting to be born.
He was a "Ghost Architect." When a multinational’s backbone shattered or a bank’s security faltered, they called him. But Elias didn't work on live wires; he worked in the Echo.
The "Refplat" ISO finally clicked into place—the foundation of his latest ghost. With a few swift commands, he mounted the image. Within minutes, the sterile white dashboard of Cisco Modeling Labs bloomed to life. He dragged a virtual router onto the canvas, then another. Lines of green connectivity spanned between them like digital silk.
In this sandbox, gravity didn't exist, and mistakes didn't cost millions. He was building a replica of a high-security data center located four thousand miles away. He needed to find the "shadow" in their routing table—a tiny, intentional leak he suspected was an inside job.
He spun up an ASAv firewall and a cluster of Ubuntu nodes. "Talk to me," he whispered, his fingers flying across the mechanical keyboard.
By dawn, the simulation hit a snag. A loop. In the real world, this would have crashed the bank's entire Eastern seaboard branch. Here, it was just a red flickering icon. Elias smiled, leaned back, and sipped cold coffee. He had found the ghost in the machine before it could ever haunt the living. The download was complete, but his work was just beginning.
The latest version for Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is , released in July 2025. This release includes a new Refplat ISO with expanded image support, including the Catalyst 9800-CL , Cisco ISE, and Splunk Enterprise 1. Downloading the New Refplat ISO
To access the latest files, follow the steps based on your license type: CML-Personal: Log into the Cisco Learning Network Store using your CCO ID. Navigate to My Account and click the button next to your active order. You will be redirected to the Cisco Software Download page to select the latest refplat-*.iso CML-Free (Community Edition): Register or sign up on the CML-Free page Download the specific refplat-*-freetier-iso.zip file from the Software Central site. CML-Enterprise/Education: Access the Cisco Software Central (SWC) downloads directly. Search for "Modeling Labs" and select the release to find the supplemental ISO. 2. Essential Update Requirements Cisco Modeling Labs - Free - Cisco DevNet
Getting Started with the New Cisco CML Refplat ISO: A Quick Guide Here are three concise headline/description options you can
If you are setting up or upgrading your Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) environment, the Reference Platform (Refplat) ISO is the most critical piece of the puzzle. This single file contains all the virtualized Cisco operating system images—like IOSv, IOSvL2, and NX-OS—that you need to build your network topologies.
The latest release of CML (v2.9) introduces a shift in how these images are handled: they must now be copied to the local disk of your CML instance rather than just being mounted as a virtual CD-ROM. Where to Download the New Refplat ISO
You can find the Refplat ISO on the same Software Download page where you get the CML controller OVA or ISO.
Standard Refplat ISO: The primary file (e.g., refplat-20241223-fcs-iso.zip) containing all "normal" router and switch images.
Supplemental Refplat ISO: A separate file containing larger or specialized images like Cisco SD-WAN and C9800-CL WLC (for v2.9+).
Personal Edition Users: Access your downloads via the Cisco Learning Network Store under your order history. Quick Setup: Adding the Images to Your Lab
Once you have downloaded and extracted the ISO, follow these steps to make the images available in your dashboard: Copy Refplat ISO to Disk - Cisco Modeling Labs v2.9
What is Cisco CML RefPlat ISO?
Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is a network simulation platform that allows you to design, configure, and test network topologies. The RefPlat ISO is a reference platform image used in CML to simulate various network devices.
Prerequisites
Downloading the Cisco CML RefPlat ISO
cml-refplat-2.2.0.0.iso).Post-download steps
Additional resources
Downloading the latest Cisco CML Reference Platform (Refplat) ISO is a critical step for any network engineer looking to simulate modern environments. This file contains the actual VM images—such as IOSv, NX-OS, and ASAv—that run inside the Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) controller. What is the Refplat ISO?
The Refplat ISO is distinct from the CML Controller (OVA/ISO). While the controller provides the management interface and API, the Refplat ISO provides the virtual device images.
Standard Refplat ISO: Includes core routers and switches like Cat 8000V, IOL (IOS on Linux), and IOSv.
Supplemental Refplat ISO: Introduced in newer versions like CML 2.9, this contains "heavy" images like Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), Catalyst 9800-CL Wireless Controllers, and SD-WAN images. How to Download the New Refplat ISO
You can access the download through two primary channels depending on your license type: CML-Personal/Personal Plus: Log in to the Cisco Learning Network Store. Navigate to My Account > My Orders.
Click the Download button next to your active CML order to be redirected to the official Cisco Software Central page. CML-Enterprise/Education: Go directly to Cisco Software Central.
Search for "Modeling Labs" and select the latest release (e.g., v2.9) to find the ISO files. CML-Free: Sign up at the CML-Free registration page.
Once registered, download the specific CML-Free Refplat ISO (typically smaller, containing IOL and ASAv) from the DevNet portal. Key Features in the Latest Releases (v2.8 - v2.9) Cisco Modeling Labs - Free
The most significant new helpful feature related to the Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) "refplat" (Reference Platform) ISO is the introduction of native IOS on Linux (IOL) images. This allows you to run routers and switches as lightweight processes rather than full virtual machines (VMs), drastically reducing CPU and memory consumption while enabling faster boot times. Key Features of New Refplat ISO Releases
Recent updates to the refplat ISO (versions 2.7 through 2.9) have introduced several critical images and capabilities:
Expanded Image Library: The latest supplemental refplat ISOs now include: Catalyst 9800-CL Cloud Wireless Controller. Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and Splunk Enterprise. FTDv and FMCv (Firepower) images. Catalyst SD-WAN images (Manager, Controller, and Edge).
Performance Improvements: Version 2.8 and later feature improved performance when copying reference platform images from a mounted ISO to the local disk.
Docker Container Support: CML 2.9 introduced a separate container ISO containing lightweight nodes like Chrome, Firefox, Nginx, and a WAN emulator.
IOL Node Support: IOL (IOS on Linux) images now support serial interfaces, allowing for classic serial-based lab scenarios with minimal resource overhead. Important Download & Installation Tips
Where to Download: Files are available via the Cisco Learning Network Store under your active order or through the Cisco Software Central site.
Local Disk Requirement: Starting with CML 2.5+, you must copy images from the ISO to the local disk; CML no longer runs images directly from a mounted ISO file. Use the "Copy Refplat ISO to Disk" button in the System Administration Cockpit to do this. Short download title + blurb Title: Cisco CML
Verify Integrity: Because refplat ISO files are large, always verify the checksum before installation to avoid corrupted image deployments.
Free Tier Access: The CML-Free version provides a limited refplat ISO including IOL, IOL-L2, ASAv, and basic Linux hosts. Copy Refplat ISO to Disk - Cisco Modeling Labs v2.9
Here’s a structured, solid report on the topic: Downloading Cisco CML (Cisco Modeling Labs) Reference Platform (RefPlat) ISO – New Version.
Legal / Copyright Note
This content is for educational purposes. Cisco software requires a valid license. Unauthorized distribution of the RefPlat ISO violates Cisco's terms of use.
Cisco CML Refplat ISO Download: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Started with Cisco's Virtualized Networking Platform
As a network administrator or engineer, you're likely no stranger to the complexities of configuring and managing network infrastructure. With the ever-evolving landscape of networking technologies, it's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest tools and platforms that can help streamline your workflow and improve network performance. One such platform is Cisco's Cloud Modeling Labs (CML) Reference Platform, commonly referred to as CML Refplat. In this article, we'll explore the process of downloading the CML Refplat ISO, and provide a comprehensive guide to getting started with this powerful virtualized networking platform.
What is Cisco CML Refplat?
Cisco CML Refplat is a virtualized networking platform designed to simulate and model real-world network environments. This platform allows network administrators and engineers to design, configure, and test network topologies in a virtual environment, reducing the need for physical hardware and minimizing the risk of configuration errors. CML Refplat is built on top of the Cisco Virtual Topology System (VTS) and utilizes a Linux-based operating system.
Key Features of CML Refplat
The CML Refplat platform offers a range of features that make it an attractive solution for network administrators and engineers. Some of the key features include:
Downloading the CML Refplat ISO
To get started with CML Refplat, you'll need to download the ISO file from the Cisco website. Here are the steps to follow:
Installing CML Refplat
Once you've downloaded the ISO file, you can proceed with the installation process. Here are the general steps to follow:
Configuring CML Refplat
After installation, you'll need to configure CML Refplat to suit your needs. Here are some general steps to follow:
Tips and Tricks for Getting Started with CML Refplat
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you get started with CML Refplat:
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cisco CML Refplat is a powerful virtualized networking platform that can help streamline your network administration and engineering tasks. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can download the CML Refplat ISO, install and configure the platform, and start creating virtual network topologies in no time. With its robust features, intuitive interface, and extensive community support, CML Refplat is an excellent choice for network administrators and engineers looking to take their skills to the next level.
Additional Resources
By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to becoming proficient in CML Refplat and taking advantage of its many features and benefits. Happy learning!
is arguably the most critical piece. While the OVA file is the "brain" of CML, the refplat ISO contains the actual virtual machine images (IOSv, NX-OS, ASAv, etc.) that power your labs. 📍 Where to Find the Download The location depends on your version of CML: CML-Personal/Personal Plus: Log into the Cisco Learning Network Store , find your active order under , and click the button. This redirects you to the Cisco Software Central page without requiring a separate service contract. CML-Free (Community Edition): Sign up for access via the CML-Free registration page
. Once confirmed, you can download the 2.8+ stable versions directly from the Cisco Software Download 📦 Which ISO Do You Need?
Recent releases (CML 2.7+) often split the reference platform into multiple files to manage size: Standard ISO (fcs): Includes classic routing/switching images (IOSv, L2, etc.). Supplemental ISO: Contains heavier images like (Catalyst SD-WAN) and (Appliance and Management Center). Specifically for the Cisco Identity Services Engine 🛠️ Installation Tip
After downloading, you must "mount" the ISO to your CML VM. You can then use the System Administration Cockpit
(port 9091) to copy these images to the local disk, which ensures your labs run smoothly without needing the ISO permanently attached.
Always match your refplat version with your CML controller version. Using a 2.7.x ISO with an older 2.5 controller can cause compatibility issues. Copy Refplat ISO to Disk - Cisco Modeling Labs v2.9
Even with a new ISO, users encounter problems. Here are solutions for the top 5 issues related to the download/install process:
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
|-------|--------------|----------|
| Slow ISO download | High demand, CDN throttling | Use a download manager like wget -c on Linux or Download Master on Windows. |
| ISO fails checksum | Corrupted download | Verify SHA256 hash from Cisco download page. Re-download if mismatch. |
| "No bootable device" after install | BIOS boot order wrong | In hypervisor, ensure hard disk is first boot device, remove ISO. |
| Web UI unreachable (HTTP 502) | Memory insufficient | Increase VM RAM to 16+ GB or reduce lab size. |
| Node images won't start – KVM error | Nested virt disabled | For VMware: enable “Hardware Virtualization” in VM options. For VirtualBox: enable Nested VT-x. |
| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| No REFPLAT visible in portal | Verify CML license assignment in Smart Account |
| Boot fails after ISO mount | Increase VM RAM to 4+ GB, enable virtualization extensions |
| License not recognized | Re-license via license smart register or local file |