Adding another switch(s) to my lab

Cat5

I only have one switch right now for my home lab - a 2950 that I got around 2008. I know I need to add at least one more for studying purposes. I'm on a very tight budget right now, so I'm looking at the cheapest switch that can do the job for me to pass SWITCH. I want to a do a real lab vs. GNS3; personal preference. Any suggestions?

atl_libra

3560's are going for decent prices on ebay.........

Cat5

I know Jeremy Cioara suggested a 3550 for a Layer 3 switch. Is there any difference between this and a 3560?

atl_libra

IPV6, Advanced QOS , Private Vlans....can't think off the top of my head if anything else.

bermovick

For SWITCH, Private VLANs are about the only thing you'll really miss.

fredrikjj

If you're on a budget you'd probably be better off using IOU for the majority of the topics and then spending like $100 on rack rentals for the features that aren't supported.

Cat5

I saw quite a few 3550 switches on eBay. Is there something in particular I should look for, such as a particular IOS, memory, etc, when getting one (behind the best one I can afford, of course)?

gorebrush

You can get the IOS online if your google-fu is up to scratch.

I have 2 x 3750 and 2 x 3550 in my lab and that's enough for me. They only run 12.2 but that really is enough. The only feature I think I'm missing so far is VTP version 3 and well I'm not that worried.

theodoxa

3560s are still expensive, though alot less than they used to be ($125 vs. $200). 3550s are alot cheaper. They won't do PVLANs, but if price is a concern they are an option for a Layer 3 switch.