Side by side
Cisco Packet Tracer vs Kathará
Both stand on network simulation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Packet Tracer offers both network simulation and device-setup practice for learners using desktop systems. Keep its NetAcad login and network-access requirements in mind.
Visit Cisco Packet Tracer Free plan APILinuxMac+2
Kathará supports teaching, sandbox testing, and protocol development across several operating systems and backend options. Its Docker requirement and stated patch coverage are important considerations for deployment.
Visit KatharáThe facts
| Cisco Packet Tracer | Kathará | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | netacad.com | kathara.org |
| On network simulation software | #4 of 31 | #8 of 31 |
Cisco Packet Tracer: what it does well
- Free to use.
- Practices networking, IoT, and cybersecurity without hardware.
- Simulation Mode shows data moving through a network.
- Supports IoT devices, Python, and network automation.
What to know first
- Not available for smartphones or tablets.
- Some advanced features require network access.
- Tutored activities are available for select courses.
Kathará: what it does well
- Free open-source software with no usage limits stated.
- Runs scenarios with Docker or Kubernetes.
- Users can supply their own container images.
- Python APIs support custom code.
- Supports Linux, macOS, and Windows 10 and 11.
What to know first
- Depends on Docker by default.
- Rootless Docker and Podman are unsupported.
- Security patches are listed for version 3.8.3.
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