The free version of CML also relies on a refplat ISO, though it includes a curated set of images like IOL, IOL-L2, and ASAv, perfect for learners. CML-Free is limited to 5 concurrent nodes, but it's a fantastic way to get started.
Within the CML download section, you will see various files available, including: CML ISO / OVA (The base installation) (The images you need) Step 4: Download the File
Virtual firewalls for practicing security and VPN configurations. cisco cml refplat iso download new
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 free version of CML also relies on
A very common user error is trying to mount the ZIP file directly instead of the ISO file inside it.
When you download a RefPlat ISO, you are getting a collection of pre-configured virtual machine (VM) images for various Cisco devices, including routers (IOSv, IOS XRv), switches (IOSvL2), firewalls (ASAv), and more. Without these images, you cannot start any lab simulations in CML—you would only see basic nodes like "Unmanaged Switch" and "External Connector". The RefPlat ISO is a mandatory component that must be attached to your CML server during the initial setup. Depending on your license type, the download location
The new REFPLAT ISO expects at least and additional storage for node images (IOSv, etc.) which take up another 20–50 GB.
The copy process seems to complete, but new nodes (e.g., SD-WAN) do not appear in the node palette.