Hi mehwish0093,
Excellent question and one that everyone goes through at some point.
When upgrading to my latest PC for my studies, I built CML with the free version, with 4x or 5x nodes.
However, to increase that node limit, you need to purchase a CML license. You used to purchase them on the Cisco Learning Network Store. However, they've now moved that to Cisco University, found at...
Scroll down until you get to the "All products" section. Across from the title, on the right hand side, you'll see a search box.
Do a search for "CML" and you'll see...
Once you purchase a license, you'll be able to login, copy the license, and paste it into your CML installation. Once registered, your node limit will increase almost immediately!
I caught CML - Personal Plus (with the 40 node limit) in February of this year (2025) for $261.75. I was happy as I was basically broke at the time and pulled it together.
It appears that the going price is $199 USD for 20 nodes and $349 USD for 40 nodes.
Ask in the forums when sales might be happening to save a few dollars. I know that around Black Friday, they always had something enticing.
Good luck. I wish you and yours the very best with all of your endeavors.
Your Virginia Network Engineer
