Leveraging GNS3 and VMware ESXi for Scalable, Hands-on Education

In an era where network infrastructures grow increasingly complex and diversified, the need for effective, accessible, and scalable learning environments becomes paramount. This paper presents a robust and flexible laboratory environment to teach networking, network automation and cyber security by deploying the Graphical Network Simulator-3 (GNS3) on VMware ESXi, a type 1 hypervisor, as a potent solution for advanced studies in the academic environment. This integrated environment facilitates the emulation of real-world infrastructure topologies, encompassing a wide array of devices, mainly Cisco routers and switches. While this paper primarily focuses on the benefits for networking education and research, the underlying architecture also supports the integration of diverse virtual appliances, including cyber security and automation tools, showcasing the broader versatility of such emulation platforms. The synergy between GNS3 and ESXi offers significant advantages in scalability, resource management, and the ability to simulate complex networking scenarios. This paper details the architecture, implementation, and key networking applications of this solution, emphasizing its capacity to provide a hands-on learning experience that closely mirrors real-world network infrastructures. We also briefly touch upon the extended possibilities beyond pure networking, underscoring the adaptability of this emulated environment.