CCNP/CCVP Lab Build

[MannyVick]

Hello All,

I am new to this site and hope I can gain some new buds to help me along my way. I had several certs before I left the field a few years ago (including CCNP). I want to renew my CCNP and move on to CCVP. Its been over 3 years since my last test, so I'm sure I have to start over. I have several routers (although pretty old) to work with as well as a few switches and routers I just ordered.
I have the following devices
OLD
2x 2501
1x 2502
1x 2503
1x 2504
1x 2524 1 FT1/T1 DSU CSU
1x 2610 1 wic 1t

Just ordered
3x 2950
1x 2620xm 1 WIC-1DSU-T1
1x 2511-rj

My questions are as follows:
1) Other than using the two 2501s for a FR switch. Can I use any of the older equipment for some of the labs?
2) what new equipment should I purchase to complete the CCNP
3) I eventually want to move over to CCVP. What new equipment should I purchase that will work with CCNP as well as CCVP.
4)Are there any sites that will help me cable all of the equipment so that I don't have to keep changing the cables.

I really don't know enough right now about all of the cisco devices and dont want to duplicate any equipment and I also want to purchase equipment that I can use in a CCVP lab when I'm ready to go that route.

I already read the CCNA and CCNP posts by Wendell and learned an enourmous amount of info, my only concern is that he didn't really cover CCVP equipment.

THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR INPUT. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

 

[lerdalt]

I think you can still use the 2500's for some remote routers they won't be able to do trunking. I was able to use 2500's for most of my CCNA/P studies, but still had access to 2600's and 2800's. Just had to make a few adjustments here and there.

As for the CCVP, I've got a couple of old mc3810 routers with FXS ports so I can make analog calls between them over a T1. I've also picked up an IP phone, but could absolutely be replaced with a softphone. There are some good posts on other sites about setting up CallManager within a VM if you have the media and resources to pull it off.

I wouldn't focus so much on cabling all the equipment. My approach when I set up my labs is to first decide what I want to do, then layout the network on either paper or whiteboard. Once I have it documented like that I'd then start putting the pieces together.

I've been working on the CCVP track right now, and can feel your pain about finding lab suggestions for CCVP, but I really think that some of the best labs come from your own imagination.

 

[maczen]

Manny,

You will be happy that you ordered the 2511! That will assist with the cabling! I would wait on any voice equipment until you finish your CCNP and are ready to move on to voice! You will not need much/any equipment for the CCNA Voice but here is your certification path (at least one option).

CCNA R&S (One or two test approach... prereq for CCNP)
CCNA Voice (Prereq for CCVP)
CCNP or CCVP (whichever)

I would go CCNP first since you have a good start on the equipment necessary for the labs!

I would keep an eye open for a 3550 switch or two but other than that I would just take it as it comes... You will know what you need when you hit the point!

Also, take a peek at

http://www.gns3.net

and

http://www.blindhog.net

as these may help compliment your physical lab! And the price is right... FREE!

B Haines
CCNA Security, CCNA R&S, ETA FOI

 

[CiscoGuy33]

Billy,

Good to see you back !!!!!!

Manny,
Read what Billy posted - he has a very good grasp on this.

Good post here by Kevin Wallace at Networkworld - "CCVP: Building a Home Lab" -

http://www.networkworld.com/community/node/36683

The pictures were not popping up - not sure if that is because the age (2008 - really not that old) of the post or some other issue, Kevin Wallace is a very good author in the area of VoIP.

Hope this helps!

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