Unsure how to connect my new Switches to my PC and GNS3

I recently passed my CCNA and am now studying for my CCNP Switching Exam. I will be receiving 2X 2950 and 2X 3550 Switches tomorrow.

But I'm not very clear on certain things.

1) How do I mimic hosts on each Switch without actually having 4 PC's

2) What Telnet/SH client should I use on my PC

3) Is it possible to have my four Switches displayed on a topology in GNS3 along with Routers, and when clicking on the Switches It will connect to them? I know you can attach a SW to GNS3 but how do I attach 4 of them and what is the process. Is their a guide around?

4) Will the SW show correct interfaces for the Virtual Routers on GNS3 as if they were real routers?

5) Do I need to deal with Routers at all if this is the Switching EXAM? I guess I do if needing to ping a DNS on the Internet.

4) I am aware I will have to use a console cable and keep plugging it into each SW all the time. Is their a better way other than buying an Access Server?

I guess i'm just wondering when I have my 4 Switches here, I will look at them and think "now what's the next step"

Thank you

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Comments

networker050184

1) I've never worried too much about hosts in my lab. If you really need a host for something you can't use an SVI or loopback for then you can use a router, a PC whatever you have. I've never found it that important though.

2) Whatever you like. Putty is free.

3) No not that I know if.

4) No, you will need to hook your NIC to one of the switches and use a cloud in GNS3. Google will find you plenty of tutorials.

5) You probably won't need any routers for SWITCH.

4 (again)) Not really a better way for multiple console access. Once you get a basic set up going you can telnet from device to device.

fredrikjj

Epidot wrote: »

5) Do I need to deal with Routers at all if this is the Switching EXAM? I guess I do if needing to ping a DNS on the Internet.

You are expected to know the basics of EIGRP and stuff like router on a stick and a few other things like layer 3 ports.

Epidot

Thanks for the reply. Yeah 4 again lol. I started with just 4 questions and added to it but forgot to change the number.

It's a shame about not being able to create a full topology in GNS3 and use the 4 Switches. I really would like to be able to view all the devices and links on the Screen to keep a picture of what im doing.

Epidot

Yes. I guess though as this exam requires Layer 3 Switches which are routers then they will do the job anyway. The 3550's

bobfromfpl

You can also purchase a whiteboard & dry erase markers. These are great when youre drawing up a quick diagram before you lay it out in GNS

pitviper

Epidot wrote: »

It's a shame about not being able to create a full topology in GNS3 and use the 4 Switches. I really would like to be able to view all the devices and links on the Screen to keep a picture of what im doing.

You can create a topology map in something like Visio and put the switch icons on it – then save it as your background in GNS3. You won’t be able to click on the switches but it’s helpful for taking notes and keeping everything in one place.

Epidot

thanks for the helpful replies