PaloAlto Firewall Implementation in GNS3

In this lab tutorial we discuss about how to deploy PaloAlto firewall in GNS3. Follow every step carefully, once you missed simple configuration it wont work the lab. 

I have tested the lab with below versions of support files and programs (VMware Workstation, PaloAlto image, GNS3). If you have any doubts please don't hesitate to ask via email or in below comment section. This lab will assist you to pass your PaloAlto exam as well. Lets's jump in.

• VMware Workstation 11.0.0 build-2305329
• GNS3 2.1.3
• PA-VM-ESX-6.1.0
• Windows 7 64-bit (8 GB RAM) To run the PaloAlto, you need more RAM. PA VM ESX - by default it needs 4 GB RAM.

First of all, you have to install the VMWare Workstation. Then you can open a new VM to deploy PaloAlto firewall image. Make sure to configure 4 GB RAM (minimum). 

In VMWare Workstation (VM) go to Edit -> Virtual Network Editor. Use 'Add Network' button to add more VMnet adapters. This will be the interfaces for your PaloAlto (PA) which is going to be run in GNS3. VMnet0 should be the management interface for PA. You have to use the IP address configured for VMnet0 to load web interface to configure the firewall. In my case I used 192.168.1.0 range for management interface. 

After installing the PA in VM, you can use it in GNS3. To load up the firewall will take little more time. If available more RAM in you computer you can increase the RAM size to PA and reduce the load time. Here my case, it took 2-3 minutes to load the firewall. The default username/password is admin. In the PA VM type 'show management interface'. Put that interface IP address in your web browser and load the firewall web console. Now you can configure your firewall for future purposes. 

Cheers!