Cat 2912 vs 2950

[rmstar]

I posted this question over in the Cisco: Switch Forum, but I thought I might post it here as well.

I am trying to build a lab to use in my studies for the CCNA and possible CCNP. As I understand it, the CCNA exam focuses on commands used on the Cat 2950. Could I substitute a Cat 2912 in it's place? They seem to be half the price of the 2950 on ebay and I would like to save some cash. Any thoughts on the 2912's usefulness as an addition to building out a CCNP lab?

Thanks all and sorry if this question seems overly simple.

 

[CiscoGuy33]

rmstar,
Since the Cat 2912 uses the Cisco IOS and the 2950 also uses Cisco IOS you should be able to do all CCNA labs expected on the CCNA exam - VLAN, VTP, port setup & security etc.

I have worked on CAT 1924s, 2924s, 2950s and 3950s and the CLI and concepts are close enough that you can normally figure out any differences.

You can also fill in any gaps with a CCNA sim from Cisco Press/Boson which allows you to configure a large array of routers and switches.

From the Cisco site -
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The Cisco Catalyst® 2912 XL, 2924 XL, and 2924C XL 10/100 autosensing Fast Ethernet switches provide outstanding performance, ease of use, and integrated Cisco IOS® software at extremely low per-port prices.

Integrated Cisco IOS Switching Software -
Command-line interface (CLI) support provides common user interface and a command set with Catalyst 5000, 5500, and 8500 series switches and all Cisco routers.
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Good luck !!

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

 

[rmstar]

Hey thanks for the quick response CiscoGuy33!