1601 router?

[comptek]

Hey guys,

I am still studying for my ccna. I just need to pass the icnd portion. Well I have small home lab that consists of 2x2501s and 1x1924 switch. I was thinking of adding another router to the mix. I can get my hands on a 1601 for around 55 used. Is a 1601 too old? I remember working with one about 2 years ago at a cisco config class. For the price is it worth it? Is there anything gained by this?
Just curious

Thanks

Comptek
A+, Network+

 

[pmoorey]

Hi,

I used a C1601 whilst preparing for my CCNA, it's fine for the very basic's, I configured mine back-to-back with another C1601 using serial cables.

You'll probably have problems with the amount of DRAM/Flash required to run features like DHCP server, most of the small sized IOS files shown on Cisco.com are not available to download any more as they are too old. I don't think the 10Mb/sec Ethernet interface will do subinterface VLANS either.

Its a fine router if you just need to practice very basic configurations. My advice - if your planning on doing CCNP etc. invest in a newer router with memory a plenty!

HTH?

Pete

Peter
CCNA, Cisco Qualified Specialist

 

[CiscoGuy33]

Comptek,

You better check out eBay because they have a bunch of 1601s for less then $25 and most are $8 to $9.

I feel you would be better off with another 2501 or 2514 with max DRAM (16) and max FLASH (16) and at least a 12.1 or 12.2 version of the IOS. You could then hook all 3 routers up - Router 1 to Router 2 and Router 2 to Router 3 and then you can have Router 3 connected back to Router 1 with the serial interfaces.

You can have all the Ethernet connection end in the Switch in different VLANs and then you can practice many differnt CCNA labs, will not get much CCNA switching help with the Cat 1924 but you can still learn some swithing basics!

You can also use this arangement for Frame Relay making 1 of the 2500s a FR switch!

$55 is way too much for a used 1601!

Hope this helps!



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