Build a Complete Free CCNA Home Lab in 2026 With No Gear

In this episode, David Bombal sits down with Joe and Dalton from Cisco to break down the biggest Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) 2.10 release yet. Joe demos the new open source MCP server (model context protocol) that lets an AI model like Claude build a full CML lab from plain English. Just by asking for three IOL routers with a simple BGP config, the AI looks up the node definitions, invents the IP addresses, builds the topology, chooses eBGP on its own, and even starts the lab and waits for convergence. From there you will see the MCP server spin up a CCNA troubleshooting scenario from the official blueprint, quiz you, review your console history and final config, and hand back an honest evaluation with coaching tips. It can even turn a BGP packet capture into a ladder diagram to explain how the protocol works.

Dalton then shows off CML 2.10’s new wireless fabric, which runs end to end WiFi simulations with no real radios or physical access points. Watch signal strength change as you drag a client across the canvas, simulate roaming between two APs, add link conditioning to mimic a concrete wall, and run wireless packet capture on the .11 frames. Finally, Joe walks through the upgraded breakout tool that streams live packet captures straight into Wireshark so you can troubleshoot BGP and other protocols in real time. Everything shown works in the free version of CML, making this a must watch for anyone studying for the CCNA or leveling up as a network engineer.

Big thanks to Cisco for sponsoring my trip to Cisco Live Vegas.

// Joe Clarke SOCIAL //
LinkedIn: / joeclarke2

// Dalton Ortega SOCIAL //
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// MENU //
0:00 – Coming Up
01:00 – Intro
02:08 – CML 2.X Updates
02:48 – AI and CML
03:40 – Using AI to Create Practice Labs
06:20 – Starting the Lab, Showing a Console
07:58 – AI Evaluation and Tips for Troubleshooting
11:06 – BGP Ladder Diagram
12:08 – Wireless Fabric in CML
15:20 – Wireless Support Demo
17:45 – Packet Capture
19:21 – Outro

Please note that links listed may be affiliate links and provide me with a small percentage/kickback should you use them to purchase any of the items listed or recommended. Thank you for supporting me and this channel!

Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only.
#cml #cisco #ai

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  • David Bombal