Marionnet
Marionnet: A clear, free way to emulate Linux networks visually, with limited advanced automation. Ranked #25 of 30 in Network Simulation Software by our editors (6.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for simple graphical Linux network emulation.
At a glance
- Editor score6.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forSimple graphical Linux network emulation
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Founded2005 · LIPN, France
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source for desktop-based network labs
- Graphical diagrams update dynamically during reconfiguration
- Emulates Linux machines, routers, switches, hubs, and cables
Where it doesn't
- Advanced simulation and automation capabilities are limited
- Primarily focused on GNU/Linux emulation and network education
- Documentation and copyright materials are partly dated
Our verdict on Marionnet
Marionnet is a free, open-source virtual network laboratory for defining, configuring, and running Ethernet networks without physical equipment. It is primarily aimed at teaching computer networks in university laboratories, with documented uses in high schools, testing, and development. The software provides a graphical network editor for virtual computers, routers, hubs, switches, and cables, while User Mode Linux supplies GNU/Linux virtual-machine emulation. Its listed desktop platforms are Linux, Windows, and macOS, although the product itself centers on Linux-based network environments.
The strongest fit is visual network learning and straightforward emulation. Marionnet's graphical diagram updates dynamically as the network changes, and dynamic reconfiguration lets users modify virtual environments during work. Host-network connectivity is available through gateway devices, while VLAN configuration can be handled through VDE switch terminals. Copy-on-write filesystems support virtual-machine management, and host X-server support allows graphical applications to run. Integrations with VirtualBox, User Mode Linux, Virtual Distributed Ethernet, and Graphviz extend its surrounding toolset without changing its desktop deployment model.
Marionnet is most suitable when the priority is a free, graphical laboratory for experimenting with Linux machines and common network components. It is less suited to teams seeking verified automation workflows or advanced simulation capabilities, since those areas are limited in the product's stated positioning. Buyers should also expect an education-oriented tool rather than a broad enterprise network-simulation platform. Choose Marionnet for accessible diagrams, emulation, VLAN practice, and host connectivity; consider an alternative when extensive automation or deeper simulation is central to the project.
Your product? Our editors can test Marionnet in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Marionnet pricing
Marionnet fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Simulation model | Emulation |
| Real-time emulation | Not verified |
| Hardware-in-the-loop | Not verified |
| Deployment options | Desktop |
| Documented node limit | Not verified |
| Automation API | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux, Windows, macOS |
| Support | Email, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: VirtualBox, User Mode Linux, Virtual Distributed Ethernet, Graphviz |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | marionnet.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Marionnet integrations
Marionnet lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- VirtualBox
- User Mode Linux
- Virtual Distributed Ethernet
- Graphviz
Alternatives to Marionnet
- GNS3A free, broad multivendor lab for simulating, emulating, and connecting real networks.9.4
- Cisco Modeling LabsA Cisco-focused virtual lab with broad automation, integration, and deployment options.9.2
- EVE-NGA broad emulation platform for large, collaborative multivendor network labs.9.0
See all Marionnet alternatives →
Used Marionnet? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used Marionnet for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
Marionnet is listed in our Network Simulation Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/marionnet/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/marionnet.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update