I need help getting a lab set up for CCNA / CCNP

ItrimbleItrimble Member Posts: 221
in CCNA & CCENT
Hey everyone, I have some questions about creating a physical lab. I need to know where to start. I learn best hands on, so ideally, I'd like to pick up some used gear.
Do I need 2 switches and 2 routers?


I watched the MicroNuggets CBT and they recommended getting 2 switches and 2 routers.

I was wondering if I could get by with 2 switches and 1 router.
I've been thinking of the Catalyst WS-C3550-24PWR Switches
And the 2811 for the Router.

Will this take me through the CCNP ?
Goals for 2015 : Finish BS Network Administration at WGU
Become CCNA, CISSP, CEH, VCP5-10 Certified
Possible Start Masters in Information Security
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Comments

  • VinnyCiscoVinnyCisco Member Posts: 176
    Have you ever checked these guys out?

    NetCertLabs
    "Failure is the prerequisite of Success" - V. G.
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  • MTciscoguyMTciscoguy Member Posts: 552
    For cost vs. features, I really like the 1841 routers with the WIC slots, they are cheap and will do most of what you need, but I have been looking at the 28XX to add to my lab, currently I have 5 routers and 5 switches.
    Current Lab: 4 C2950 WS, 1 C2950G EI, 3 1841, 2 2503, Various Modules, Parts and Pieces. Dell Power Edge 1850, Dell Power Edge 1950.
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  • ItrimbleItrimble Member Posts: 221
    They are expensive, that's why I was looking at Ebay/Craigslist...
    Goals for 2015 : Finish BS Network Administration at WGU
    Become CCNA, CISSP, CEH, VCP5-10 Certified
    Possible Start Masters in Information Security
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  • MTciscoguyMTciscoguy Member Posts: 552
    I have paid less than $50 for each one of my 1841's and they do most of what you need.
    Current Lab: 4 C2950 WS, 1 C2950G EI, 3 1841, 2 2503, Various Modules, Parts and Pieces. Dell Power Edge 1850, Dell Power Edge 1950.
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  • timesvan32timesvan32 Member Posts: 79 ■■□□□□□□□□
    Hi,

    I am studying for the CCENT right now and I am running:

    x3 1841 with WICT1 cards
    x3 2950 24 port switches.

    If I were you, I would I grab x2 2950 and x2 1841. That would be suffice for your studies.
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  • ItrimbleItrimble Member Posts: 221
    timesvan32 wrote: »

    If I were you, I would I grab x2 2950 and x2 1841. That would be suffice for your studies.

    That sounds like a plan. Thank you Timesvan32
    Goals for 2015 : Finish BS Network Administration at WGU
    Become CCNA, CISSP, CEH, VCP5-10 Certified
    Possible Start Masters in Information Security
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  • timesvan32timesvan32 Member Posts: 79 ■■□□□□□□□□
    Itrimble wrote: »
    That sounds like a plan. Thank you Timesvan32

    No problem, but that's my suggestion and others here may also provide some as well. Also if you plan to move onto CCNP right after your CCNA, I would grab two or three 3550 switches and maybe another 1841 router. Here is a great site by Wendell Odom for a particular build list.

    CCNP Build Lists
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