Universidad Camilo José Cela (UCJC) has adopted the open-source VyOS network operating system to give students hands-on routing and cybersecurity experience, overcoming the limitations of traditional networking simulators.
VyOS Networks has announced that Universidad Camilo José Cela (UCJC) in Spain is using its open-source network operating system, VyOS, to modernise networking and cybersecurity laboratories with real-world routing and infrastructure-level cybersecurity training.
The university adopted VyOS to provide students with hands-on experience in realistic networking environments rather than relying solely on academic simulators. UCJC also participates in the VyOS for Good programme, which provides educational institutions with free access to VyOS software, enabling larger networking environments without licensing restrictions.
According to the university, traditional simulators become increasingly restrictive as students advance towards professional networking scenarios. “Packet Tracer is useful, but you quickly hit limitations. Commands don’t work, features aren’t fully implemented, and it doesn’t reflect real operational environments,” said José Manuel, Professor, UCJC, Computer Technology, Computer Networks, and Network & Application Cybersecurity.
Using VyOS, students can work with realistic routing configurations, enterprise networking protocols and infrastructure-level cybersecurity concepts on a Linux-based network operating system. The platform is being used to deploy multi-router virtual topologies, configure routing protocols such as RIP, build client-server edge scenarios and analyse network behaviour using Wireshark.
The university reported improved lab realism, better teaching outcomes, higher student engagement and the ability to build larger network topologies on standard academic hardware.
“Packet Tracer has limitations. With VyOS, students can face a real router, and that makes all the difference for learning how networks actually work,” added Manuel.
UCJC and VyOS are also exploring certification pathways, guided lab content and expanded networking and cybersecurity training scenarios for future courses.
