Need some guidance

Hey guys,

I'm preparing for my CCENT/CCNA studies. So far I've picked up the following on ebay, waiting for delivery:

2 x 2610 (2 x WIC 1DSU cards)
1 x 2620XM (WIC 1DSU)
2 x 3640 (4 x WIC 1T, 2 x 4 A/S, 2 x 1FE-2W, 2 x 1FE-TX, 1 NM-PRI-2CT1-CSU)

So...how am I doing? What do I need to flesh this out (switch suggestions, anyone?)

Thanks a million, everyone.

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Comments

alan2308

You've got more than enough routers now, just make sure you're good on cables as well. You are pretty good on serial interfaces as well once you move a few around to balance them out.

As far as switches go, I would suggest at a minimum getting a pair of 2950's, and a third if you can afford it. You can also use a 2900XL (which are ~$20) as your third switch if you're on a budget. There's also the 3550 which is much better and will take you further into your studies, but they cost $200 or more.

2900XL < 2950SI < 2950EI < 3550

And of course, don't jump on the first thing you see. Shop around and wait for a deal to come along. I have a 3550 which I got off ebay for $25 and my 2950's were $28 each.

eserfeliz

Hey alan,

Thanks for your feedback. I picked up a 2950EI last night and I'm waiting for an auction to close.

Know a place where I can get cables cheap?

alan2308

monoprice.com

Around 50 cents for cat5 cables and less than $5 for DB60 crossover cables.

eserfeliz

I had a "hero" slot open, but you've now taken it.

Thanks!

earweed

If you're really serious about networking you could just get a crimper, some cable, and connectors and make your own. I'm doing that as I just wanted to learn how to do it.

ehnde

earweed wrote: »

If you're really serious about networking you could just get a crimper, some cable, and connectors and make your own. I'm doing that as I just wanted to learn how to do it.

I got a 50 foot spool of cat5, cable crimpers, and those plastic thingies at Lowes. Who would have thought they'd have all of that neat stuff at a local hardware store?

eserfeliz

I have the items to make the Cat 5, I just need the DB60 cables.