Introducing myself + Redistribution Question

CCNA_Ric

Good afternoon everyone,

I'd just like to introduce myself here to the forums. I am currently studying to become a CCNP. My first question is, will GNS3 be enough to learn the topics covered on the 3 exams I plan to take? Should I plan to purchase any lab equipment? .

My second question is more specifically related to a topic on the route exam. Is redistribution one of the harder topics on the exam? Also I'd really like to get some free GNS3 labs,

(edited: shortened)

AwesomeGarrett

Congrats on making the decision to continue your studies! To answer your first questions, no, GNS3 will be not enough to get you past the switching exam. You are going to need some layer 3 switches for that exam, I recommend 3560's as with the CCNP you will find things that you cannot do with GNS3.

You mentioned 1900 series...... what? Are these switches or ISR's? If switches, throw them back at your employers face for trying to make you take out the trash. LOL, but seriously, 1900 series switches use a different syntax so they are almost useless in your studies.

Regarding you questions on redistribution, yes at first it does feel a little weird but if you just remember the simple rules that go along with each protocol, you will have it down in no time. I would tell you to get the CCNP ROUTE Simplified but once you have the basic of redistribution its pretty straightforward unless someone is trying to confuse you on purpose.

As far as labs go, just make them up as you go. You have GNS3 there is no limit on the complexity of your labs.