OK, I STILL want to build a lab

ProfessorGumby

something modest, but effective. To brush up on my CCNA skills for a possible CCNP upgrade, but mainly to get rid of the cobwebs.

Once I get this "modest" lab up, a few routers, a few switches, are there any good workbooks or sites that have actual exercises that you could do? I can do the basics, but I really want to dive into the many features that I wouldn't even think of trying.

miller811

Use Dynamips or GNS3 for routing functions.
Purchase a few 2950's for switching labs and possible a 3550 or 2 if you budget allows.