Install and Config Cisco ASA on GNS3

by SinaOnline Network Training, Virtualization Training

Hello, today we will install GNS3 with you and then we will install CISCO ASA on it. I will also explain how we can connect to Cisco ASA with ASDM.

Let’s start.

Step 1: Obtain Cisco ASA Image

You’ll need a Cisco ASA image file to run it in GNS3. You can acquire this image from legal and legitimate sources, such as Cisco’s official website, or if you have a Cisco ASA device, you may be able to extract it. Make sure you have the proper licensing to use the image.

Step 2: Install GNS3

If you haven’t already, download and install GNS3 on your computer from the official website (https://www.gns3.com/). Follow the installation instructions for your specific operating system.

Step 3: GNS3 Initial Setup

  1. Launch GNS3 and complete the initial setup wizard. This typically includes configuring preferences like where to store your projects and images.
  2. Make sure you have the GNS3 VM (Virtual Machine) configured and running. You can download the GNS3 VM from the GNS3 website and follow the installation instructions provided there.

Step 4: Add Cisco ASA to GNS3

  1. In GNS3, go to “Edit” > “Preferences.”
  2. In the Preferences window, click on “QEMU VMs” on the left sidebar.
  3. Click the “New” button to add a new virtual machine.
  4. Provide a name for the virtual machine (e.g., “Cisco ASA”).
  5. In the “Type” dropdown menu, select “ASA” for Cisco ASA.
  6. In the “QEMU binary” section, browse and select the QEMU binary executable. This binary should be located in your GNS3 VM.
  7. Set the RAM and CPU settings based on your system resources and requirements.
  8. Click “Next” and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the virtual machine setup.

Step 5: Add ASA Image to GNS3

  1. In GNS3, go to “Edit” > “Preferences” again.
  2. In the Preferences window, click on “QEMU” on the left sidebar.
  3. Click the “QEMU VMs” tab.
  4. Select the “Cisco ASA” virtual machine you created earlier.
  5. In the “QEMU Options” section, click the “Browse” button next to “QEMU image” and select the Cisco ASA image file you obtained.

Step 6: Configure Cisco ASA in GNS3

  1. Drag and drop the Cisco ASA device from the GNS3 device list onto your GNS3 workspace.
  2. Right-click on the ASA device and choose “Start.”
  3. Right-click again and select “Console” to open the console window for the ASA.
  4. Configure the ASA as needed using the command-line interface (CLI). This includes setting up interfaces, IP addresses, access control policies, and any other configurations you require.
  5. Save your configurations to ensure they persist across sessions.

With these steps, you should have a Cisco ASA running in GNS3, ready for configuration and testing in your simulated network environment. Remember to follow proper licensing and usage guidelines when using Cisco ASA images.