No CCNA exp...what equip for lab setup

brad-

I am starting the CCENT/CCNA at ground zero. I have good understanding of Windows, but not cisco.

At work, we have these spare parts I can build a lab from:
4x2600
1x3600

2x2950x24
1x3500x24

From what I have read breifly thus far, you need 3 of each. Would you recommend any different equipment or should I go with the 3600, 2x2600, and the 3 switches?

I looked through itunes podcasts, it wasnt very rich with ccna hands on material. Trainsignal is going to set me back $400...but I would be willing to get it if it is all that.

Any starter tips are welcome.

alan2308

Depending on IOS version and modules you have for the routers, I would say that what you have is more than enough. You want at least 2 serial ports in each router (or at least two in most of your routers if you have a bunch), and preferably 3 or 4 in one of them. You also want an IOS version of at least 12.2 (though higher is better) on the routers. Though you may need to install more memory and/or flash in order to support it. The 2600's go up to 12.3 and the 3600 goes up to 12.4 (unless it's a 3620). Three routers is the recommendation, though there's plenty of ways that you can use a fourth, so hold on to them all.

You'll also want to grab at least one book. Wendell Odom and Todd Lammle are the two favorites, take a look at the previews on Google Books to see which one's writing style you prefer. You really can't go wrong with either. Videos are also pretty popular, though for the price, I have a hard time really recommending them. Chris Bryant (Trainsignal/Bryant Advantage) and Jeremy Cioara (CBT Nuggets) are the most popular of those. CBT Nuggets has a few preview videos on their site, and Bryant has a bunch on YouTube. Don't rely solely on videos, they usually don't go in as much depth, and use at least 2 sources (2 books or 1 book/1 video).