Newer minor releases introduce updated CLI commands and features.
Depending on your disk speed, this process can take several minutes to over an hour. This step actually copies the files from the ISO into the CML backend storage, effectively applying the patches included in the new ISO. Step 4: Verifying the Refplat Installation
Which (IOS-XE, NX-OS, etc.) or third-party appliances you are attempting to patch?
This usually stems from a misunderstanding of how Cisco licensing works, or a desire to bypass official channels. In this post, we will clarify what the "refplat ISO" actually is, why looking for "patched" versions is risky, and the correct, legal way to manage your CML resources. cisco cml refplat iso download patched
If a patched node does not appear in your CML topology menu, check that the corresponding .yaml definition file was placed in the exact same folder as the .qcow2 image before compilation.
The modern CML Personal edition provides a legitimate, free pathway to learn networking. For enterprise needs, the official licensing model is streamlined via Smart Licensing, eliminating the need for unstable, hacked-together solutions.
: If mounting the ISO via your hypervisor (like VMware) fails, you can "patch" your installation by using Newer minor releases introduce updated CLI commands and
, formerly known as VIRL, is the premier network simulation platform for engineers preparing for CCNP, CCIE, or testing complex enterprise network topologies. A critical component of a functional CML environment is the Reference Platform ISO (refplat ISO) , which contains the actual virtual machine images (IOSv, IOS-XE, ASA, NX-OS, etc.) used to build simulations.
Download the file—note that it is often a .zip archive that must be extracted to get the .iso . 📂 Current Versioning (as of April 2026) Latest ISO: refplat-20241016-fcs.iso . Supplemental ISO: refplat-20241016-supplemental.iso .
This is the most significant threat. The software images contained within the paid REFPLAT ISO are intellectual property owned by Cisco Systems. Using a cracked or patched version to bypass the license token is a direct violation of Cisco's End User License Agreement (EULA). This constitutes software piracy. You would be using commercial-grade, licensed software without paying for it. In a corporate environment, this exposes your employer to significant legal liability, including hefty fines and potential lawsuits. Step 4: Verifying the Refplat Installation Which (IOS-XE,
: Users looking for a "patched" version are typically trying to bypass the tedious process of merging these two sources or are troubleshooting nodes that won't show up in their workbench. The Official "Patching" Method
Always check the SHA512 checksum on the Cisco Download Page after downloading to ensure the file isn't corrupted. 🔄 How to Apply/Patch the ISO
Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is the premier network simulation platform for engineers looking to design, test, and troubleshoot complex topologies. At the core of CML is the Reference Platform (Refplat) ISO. This file contains the virtual machine images for Cisco operating systems like IOSv, IOS-XE, NX-OS, and ASA.
This usually happens if the patched .qcow2 filename or directory name does not perfectly match the syntax defined inside the node's .yaml file. Double-check your naming conventions during step 3.