CCNP Lab equipment 5

I got through my CCNP with:
4- 2500 series routers
2- 2950 series switches
1- 4500 series router with 4 serial interfaces for a frame-relay switch.

However, for longevity, you probably want to look at getting your hands on some 2610 routers. I wanted to have at least 4 routers plus a frame-relay switch.

As for switches, I think 3 was best just to get the full effect for spanning-tree.

I have created my lab as close to Wendel Odom's CCNP suggestion as possible.. I would agree with Lerdalt in regard to the 2610 but would look for an XM series... Here is my lab setup once I complete it...

This is where I am trying to go with my lab:
3x 3640 (12.4 Main)
1x 2650XM (12.4 beyond Main)[Need]
3x 2950 (2 are EI models)
1x 3550 (EI)[Need]
1x 2511
Plus network modules and cables
------------------------------
This is my current lab:
3x 3640
1x 2610 (need to sell)
1x 2612 (need to sell)
1x 2620 (need to sell)
3x 2924XL-EN (need to sell)
3x 2950
1x 2511
------------------------------
The reason I am posting this is to point out the importance of researching what you want first.. A combination of my top list plus Lerdalt's would be perfect...

1x 2950XM (Can also be used for CCVP later) $200+
1x 3640 (Need 64DRAM/16Flash for 12.4)$100
2x 2501 or 2503 (FR switch plus extra router) $30
3x 2950 (Can scrape by with two) $100 SI - $130 EI
Optional 3550 EI $300 - $500

I also have some 3Com and Extreme stuff for play.. Plus a Juniper Netcreen that I use for wireless.... Am going to buy an ASA soon and run inline with the Juniper between the lab... Should be fun making those two play nicely.. LoL but that is for the Security side of the CCNA which is the path I am taking next... (Then either CCNP or CCSP Not Sure)

B Haines
CCNA R&S, ETA FOI

DallasBPF,

Check this blog by Wendell Odom, he has lots of good information on setting up both a CCNA andCCNP lab -

CCNP Lab Series – Master Links -


Hope this helps!

E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +

Mac, - 3x 2950 looking to get rid of any of those?

No, just bought them actually.. but here is some advice..

You can get these cheaper on eBay than anywhere else... The regular SI models like the 2950-24 run $150+ online... even at so watch eBay and bid away as you can get them for under $100 sometimes...

Look for
2950C
2950G
2950T
(These are all EI models)
Try to get one of these...
Then buy yourself a couple of 2950-12 which will run you about $80 plus shipping.. I missed a bid on one of these that went for $56 plus $5 shipping.. Was selling for $40 and I bid 55 in last ten seconds... but regardless you can get all three for around $270 (Can get away with two of them if you need to)!!!

Here you go.. $69.99 plus calculate shipping... 5 available and good rating...

B Haines
CCNA R&S, ETA FOI

thanks everyone for the input!

------------------------------------
Dallas, Texas
Telecommunications Tech
CCVP, CCNA, Net+

CCNP in the works

Bobby, Just thought that I would tell you to keep your eye on eBay. Just watched a pair of 2950's go for $120 yesterday! I have also seen an 1801 go for $200 and a few 3550's do the same. Unfortunately, I can't log on to eBay at work or it would be on!!! LoL

B Haines
CCNA R&S, ETA FOI

altenatively try this:

GNS3

can't remember the URL so google it.

I will definetly give that one a shot...


------------------------------------
Dallas, Texas
Telecommunications Tech
CCVP, CCNA, Net+

CCNP in the works

If you are going to play with GNS3 Dallas then also try IOSHunter to find the necessary IOS's and check out for some good video tutorials!!!

B Haines
CCNA R&S, ETA FOI

Thanks for the info!

------------------------------------
Dallas, Texas
Telecommunications Tech
CCVP, CCNA, Net+

CCNP in the works

You can also find some sample dynagen configurations on the new Cisco Learning Network website.


I have a few of them downloaded...just need to find them again.