Unlocking New Possibilities with Cisco Modeling Labs 2.9: Enhanced Features and Scalability

Cisco Modeling Labs 2.9 introduces new features such as Docker containers, which enhance flexibility, scalability, and ease of use. Containers consume fewer resources, allowing for larger and more diverse labs, and integrate seamlessly with VM nodes. CML 2.9 also introduces a fine-grained permission system for sharing labs with other users, including view, exec, edit, and admin levels.

Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) has released version 2.9, introducing several significant features that enhance the platform's flexibility, scalability, and ease of use. This update includes support for Docker containers, a new fine-grained permission system for lab sharing, and additional node types and images.

Docker Container Support
One of the standout features in CML 2.9 is the introduction of Docker container support. This allows users to run Docker containers within the CML environment, providing greater flexibility and scalability. Containers consume fewer resources compared to traditional virtual machines, enabling the creation of larger and more diverse labs. This feature integrates seamlessly with existing VM nodes, making it easier to manage a mixed environment [1].

Fine-Grained Lab Sharing Permissions
CML 2.9 introduces a more sophisticated permission system for lab sharing. Previously, labs could only be shared with users on a "read-only" or "read-write" basis. With the 2.9 release, users can now share labs with others at different levels: View, Exec, Edit, and Admin. This fine-grained permission system allows for more precise control over who can access and modify labs, enhancing collaboration and security [1].

New Node Types and Images
The update also includes new node types and images. CML 2.9 provides a new IOL node type and image that supports serial interfaces, addressing a long-standing request from users. Additionally, the supplemental reference platform ISO includes images for the Catalyst 9800-CL Cloud Wireless Controller and Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) [1].

Sample Labs and Customization
CML 2.9 enhances the sample labs feature by allowing administrators to update and customize the sample labs between releases. This makes it easier to keep the labs relevant and up-to-date. Administrators can now add or replace the default list of sample labs with their own custom labs, tied to Git repositories [1].

Conclusion
Cisco Modeling Labs 2.9 represents a significant step forward in enhancing the platform's capabilities. The introduction of Docker container support, fine-grained lab sharing permissions, and new node types and images makes CML 2.9 a powerful tool for network simulation and lab management. These features are likely to appeal to network engineers, educators, and other professionals who rely on CML for their work.

References
[1] Cisco Modeling Labs Release Notes. Retrieved from https://developer.cisco.com/docs/modeling-labs/cml-release-notes/