Need Help w/ Advanced CCNA 200-120 Starter CCNP Kit III...

itangel · February 2014

Hi guys, I am trying to figure out what is the best setup for this lab kit "Advanced CCNA 200-120 Starter CCNP Kit III". There are upgrades that can be done but man is making this lap cost way to much. XD However; I need to have it ready for CCNP after I am done with the CCNA. I want to use all the features needed for the exam as possible.

Advanced CCNA 200-120 Starter CCNP Kit III
- Access Server 2511 & 16 Cables
- CBT DVD CCNA 640-802
- Extended Warranty 1 Year
- Router #1 Upgrade 2801 128/64
- Router #2 Upgrade 1841 384/128
- Router #3 Upgrade 1841 384/128
- Switch ##1 Upgrade 2950 to 2950C
- Switch ##2 Upgrade 2950 to 2960
- Switch ##3 Upgrade 2950 to 3560

$604.99

$750.48

12U Deluxe Rack Stand

$109.99

Sub-Total: $1,465.46

Did I set that lab wrong? If so can someone help me set it right. Thanks In Advance!

Zomboidicus · February 2014

Purchase them separately. The phrases "buying lab kit" and "save money" probably cannot be used in the same sentence respectively, unless you negate it into "NOT buying the lab kit will save you money." Look at eBay and do some research instead of buying a lab kit if you'd like to save money. It costs that much because all individual devices' price has been set higher as it is, but you got trigger happy with the upgrade option and doubled the price. You probably don't need all the RAM and flash memory you chose as well. Access server can also be rid of if you choose to purchase a NM-16A or NM-32A module card to make out of the routers the access server, but that may or may not save you much. I'm not sure if there are any alternatives to 2511 besides 2509 access server or module card to replace NM-16/32A

I just looked it up and the following devices can be purchased roughly at the described price;

1841 - $50
2801 - $90
2950 - $30
2560c - $40
3550 - $50
3560 - $100
2511 Access server - $150 ~ $200

You can get all that around $600 ~ $700, and could use it for your CCNP studies as well. I've read that you need about 3 ~ 4 routers and 2 L2 switches and 2 L3 switches for CCNP minimally, so seems about right. Of course you can take it slow and get 1 ~ 2 router and 1 switch to begin for CCNA, and decide whether you really want to go CCNP. And I'm sure you are aware of the virtualized labs, such as GNS3 and packet tracer, if you choose to go that route.

itangel · February 2014

Thanks! that is very informative. Two reason why I had chosen certificationkits. 1) For their massive Lab books they provide. 2) For the IOS Lic + Cables. I don't want to be going around looking for cables here and there plus the 30 day warranty to make sure these devices will work once they arrive. Maybe I am being too careful but those were the reason why I went that route. Now I could shop on Ebay and hopefully find something good however; is hard for me to sometime trust Ebay. XD

I would like to save some $$$ can someone help me find a full complete lab in Ebay?

Currently I have 4 switches the following info show version I will post to see if they are ok for the lab CCNA setup.

Switch>show
00:03:32: %LINK-5-CHANGED: Interface Vlan1, changed state to administratively Switch>en
Switch#show version
Cisco Internetwork Operating System Software
IOS (tm) C2950 Software (C2950-I6Q4L2-M), Version 12.1(22)EA13, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc2)
Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport
Copyright (c) 1986-2009 by cisco Systems, Inc.
Compiled Fri 27-Feb-09 22:20 by amvarma
Image text-base: 0x80010000, data-base: 0x80570000

ROM: Bootstrap program is C2950 boot loader

Switch uptime is 3 minutes
System returned to ROM by power-on
System image file is "flash:/c2950-i6q4l2-mz.121-22.EA13.bin"

cisco WS-C2950-12 (RC32300) processor (revision M0) with 20957K bytes of memory.
Processor board ID FOC0748Y101
Last reset from system-reset
Running Standard Image
12 FastEthernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)

32K bytes of flash-simulated non-volatile configuration memory.
Base ethernet MAC Address: 00:0E:83:BC:6F:C0
Motherboard assembly number: 73-5782-12
Power supply part number: 34-0965-01
Motherboard serial number: FOC0747205V
Power supply serial number: DAB0747FXVW
Model revision number: M0
Motherboard revision number: B0
Model number: WS-C2950-12
System serial number: FOC0748Y101
Configuration register is 0xF

Switch#

Switch#show version
Cisco Internetwork Operating System Software
IOS (tm) C2950 Software (C2950-I6K2L2Q4-M), Version 12.1(22)EA14, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)
Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport
Copyright (c) 1986-2010 by cisco Systems, Inc.
Compiled Tue 26-Oct-10 10:35 by nburra
Image text-base: 0x80010000, data-base: 0x80680000

ROM: Bootstrap program is C2950 boot loader

Switch uptime is 6 minutes
System returned to ROM by power-on
System image file is "flash:/c2950-i6k2l2q4-mz.121-22.EA14.bin"

This product contains cryptographic features and is subject to United
States and local country laws governing import, export, transfer and
use. Delivery of Cisco cryptographic products does not imply
third-party authority to import, export, distribute or use encryption.
Importers, exporters, distributors and users are responsible for
compliance with U.S. and local country laws. By using this product you
agree to comply with applicable laws and regulations. If you are unable
to comply with U.S. and local laws, return this product immediately.

A summary of U.S. laws governing Cisco cryptographic products may be found at:
http://www.cisco.com/wwl/export/crypto/tool/stqrg.html

If you require further assistance please contact us by sending email to
export@cisco.com.

cisco WS-C2950G-48-EI (RC32300) processor (revision Q0) with 19911K bytes of memory.
Processor board ID FOC1049Z3HU
Last reset from system-reset
Running Enhanced Image
48 FastEthernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)
2 Gigabit Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)

32K bytes of flash-simulated non-volatile configuration memory.
Base ethernet MAC Address: 00:1A:6D:52:D4:80
Motherboard assembly number: 73-7409-13
Power supply part number: 34-0965-01
Motherboard serial number: FOC10486GYP
Power supply serial number: DTH103926FB
Model revision number: Q0
Motherboard revision number: A0
Model number: WS-C2950G-48-EI
System serial number: FOC1049Z3HU
Configuration register is 0xF

Switch#

Switch>show version
Cisco Internetwork Operating System Software
IOS (tm) C2950 Software (C2950-I6K2L2Q4-M), Version 12.1(22)EA14, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)
Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport
Copyright (c) 1986-2010 by cisco Systems, Inc.
Compiled Tue 26-Oct-10 10:35 by nburra
Image text-base: 0x80010000, data-base: 0x80680000

ROM: Bootstrap program is C2950 boot loader

Switch uptime is 7 minutes
System returned to ROM by power-on
System image file is "flash:/c2950-i6k2l2q4-mz.121-22.EA14.bin"

This product contains cryptographic features and is subject to United
States and local country laws governing import, export, transfer and
use. Delivery of Cisco cryptographic products does not imply
third-party authority to import, export, distribute or use encryption.
Importers, exporters, distributors and users are responsible for
compliance with U.S. and local country laws. By using this product you
agree to comply with applicable laws and regulations. If you are unable
to comply with U.S. and local laws, return this product immediately.

A summary of U.S. laws governing Cisco cryptographic products may be found at:
http://www.cisco.com/wwl/export/crypto/tool/stqrg.html

If you require further assistance please contact us by sending email to
export@cisco.com.

cisco WS-C2950G-48-EI (RC32300) processor (revision Q0) with 19911K bytes of memory.
Processor board ID FOC1039Z25D
Last reset from system-reset
Running Enhanced Image
48 FastEthernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)
2 Gigabit Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)

32K bytes of flash-simulated non-volatile configuration memory.
Base ethernet MAC Address: 00:19:56:9C:C9:C0
Motherboard assembly number: 73-7409-12
Power supply part number: 34-0965-01
Motherboard serial number: FOC10383XZW
Power supply serial number: DTH10274RSY
Model revision number: Q0
Motherboard revision number: B0
Model number: WS-C2950G-48-EI
System serial number: FOC1039Z25D
Configuration register is 0xF

Switch>

Switch#show version
Cisco Internetwork Operating System Software
IOS (tm) C2950 Software (C2950-I6K2L2Q4-M), Version 12.1(22)EA14, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)
Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport
Copyright (c) 1986-2010 by cisco Systems, Inc.
Compiled Tue 26-Oct-10 10:35 by nburra
Image text-base: 0x80010000, data-base: 0x80680000

ROM: Bootstrap program is C2950 boot loader

Switch uptime is 8 minutes
System returned to ROM by power-on
System image file is "flash:/c2950-i6k2l2q4-mz.121-22.EA14.bin"

This product contains cryptographic features and is subject to United
States and local country laws governing import, export, transfer and
use. Delivery of Cisco cryptographic products does not imply
third-party authority to import, export, distribute or use encryption.
Importers, exporters, distributors and users are responsible for
compliance with U.S. and local country laws. By using this product you
agree to comply with applicable laws and regulations. If you are unable
to comply with U.S. and local laws, return this product immediately.

A summary of U.S. laws governing Cisco cryptographic products may be found at:
http://www.cisco.com/wwl/export/crypto/tool/stqrg.html

If you require further assistance please contact us by sending email to
export@cisco.com.

cisco WS-C2950G-48-EI (RC32300) processor (revision Q0) with 19911K bytes of memory.
Processor board ID FOC1032Z3AW
Last reset from system-reset
Running Enhanced Image
48 FastEthernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)
2 Gigabit Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 interface(s)

32K bytes of flash-simulated non-volatile configuration memory.
Base ethernet MAC Address: 00:18:BA:8E:8D:80
Motherboard assembly number: 73-7409-12
Power supply part number: 34-0965-01
Motherboard serial number: FOC10314A4H
Power supply serial number: DTH10233BGE
Model revision number: Q0
Motherboard revision number: B0
Model number: WS-C2950G-48-EI
System serial number: FOC1032Z3AW
Configuration register is 0xF

Switch#

Zomboidicus · February 2014

If you prepare your PC environment so that you can console in the day you get those networking devices from ebay, you can then return it right away if there is something is wrong. Ebay is very return-friendly, or at least it has been from my experience. When shopping at ebay, you can always look at the seller's rating. That will give you a good indication as to how trustful they are. Also depending on the buyer, they may offer 30 day warranty as well. Some sellers will also post the screenshot of show command that will show the IOS version, and if for example a router has 12.4 and above, you should be good to go.

There is also no need to buy everything from ebay at one time. You can try to purchase a cheap switch such as 2950 or 2950C for $20 ~ $40, which may include free shipping, then console in to see whether it works. Worse case scenario you pay for shipping fee to return it if it's no good. You can test out ebay that way.

Lab books can be purchased on Amazon as well. You can purchase the Kindle version of "101 Labs for the Cisco CCNA Exam" for 5 dollars. It is an excellent lab book and is used widely.

But IMO, paying double for warranty and to avoid shopping around for cables may not be a good idea. I think the chances of stuff you buy on ebay failing within the first 30 days are relatively small. Let's say for example, the $50 switch fails, but you only paid $600 for the entire lab as opposed to $1400; you still have saved $750.

Lastly, lab kits from ebay are actually less reliable than the lab kits from certificationkits.com (at least from what I've read.) So your choices are either to;
1. Buy the lab kit you posted, but perhaps without upgrading everything
2. Research and buy equipment seperately from places like ebay or craigslist
3. Use virtualized environment such as GNS3 and packet tracer just for CCNA and hold off on hardware while you contemplant
4. Purchase a lab from one of our members here on Techexams.net from the "General - On sales" thread, and have them ship them or pick them up

But then again, it is all up to you.

itangel · February 2014

Thanks! All the information is great and much appreciated. I trying to get entire lab asap to start my studies. I work best hands on so software frustrated me in the past. I like the real thing so a lab is very important to me. I have 4 switches but I I have to upgrade the IOS if it can even take a 12.4. If not I am looking at getting 3 routers, 3 switches and a access server if possible. I will look into the amazon book you are talking about. So many labs on Ebay that come with cables which is nice. I will also check the general section on this forum to see if anyone is selling a lab.

JeanM · February 2014

As stated above, if you want to save money, then do your re-search and buy those components one at a time (also factor in s/h costs as well, as not all devices sell as free s/h).

Also, your 4 switches you posted are all L2 switches, and fine for CCNA. You will not upgrade their IOS to 12.4, that is related more to routers and not switches.

good luck

Zomboidicus · February 2014

Also, if you strictly want an advice in which kit to purchase from certificationskit.com so you can purchase it ASAP and it'll be ready for you, it may be helpful to state your budget. Then people can asses which kit is perfect for you to select.

For example, if your budget is around $800, perhaps this kit may be used for both CCNA and CCNP.

Customizable 3 Router & 3 Switch CCNA Kit v2 RS 200-120
- Access Server none
- CBT DVD none
- Extended Warranty 30 Day (No Charge)
- Router #1 Upgrade 2610XM 256/48
- Router #2 Upgrade 1841 256/64
- Router #3 Upgrade 2801 256/64
- Switch ##1 Upgrade 2950 to 3560
- Switch ##2 Upgrade 2950 to 2950C
- Switch ##3 Upgrade 2950 to 2950C

$424.99

$345.00

Sub-Total: $769.99

I'm also in the process of looking for a CCNP lab myself, so I wish you all the luck.

itangel · February 2014

Ic, Well my budget can go upto $1100-1500 max however I would love to stay in the lower side if possible. That includes lab, rack, software, books etc... Everything if possible to get me into CCNA and CCNP. That way I don't have to stop when I get my CCNA and take a break. I want to take it like if I was going into college. Every minute cost hundreds of dollars so, that being said. want to stop after my CCNP to see what route and equipment I need to add to the lab. I am giving myself short golds 90 days for CCNA with 2 hour study time a day. then I will set the next one for the CCNP. Is why I am willing to put the money into getting things done right the first time if possible. Like I said before Software frustrates me GNS3 or Packet Tracer are nice software, but if I can afford a lab. I will go with the lab instead.

I came across this lab on Ebay too.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cisco-Complete-CCNA-CCNP-Certified-Network-Professional-Home-Lab-Kit-15-1IOS-/261408923502?pt=US_Wired_Routers&hash=item3cdd2f9f6e

itangel · February 2014

JeanM wrote: »

As stated above, if you want to save money, then do your re-search and buy those components one at a time (also factor in s/h costs as well, as not all devices sell as free s/h).

Also, your 4 switches you posted are all L2 switches, and fine for CCNA. You will not upgrade their IOS to 12.4, that is related more to routers and not switches.

good luck

Ic cool, I want to save but not if it will get in the way of my studies. For now I might end up grabbing a lab from Ebay.

Cisco Complete CCNA CCNP Certified Network Professional Home Lab Kit 15 1IOS | eBay

And grab the ebooks from Amazon. Plus anything else I need I can start working from there. This lab at least brings 2x Layer 2 switch and 1x Layer 3 switch and the routes has expansion slots for voice later on. XD

Need Help w/ Advanced CCNA 200-120 Starter CCNP Kit III...

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