Cisco CCNA CCNP Home Lab Tutorial Buying And Configuring An Access Server
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Computer Certification.
Cisco CCNA/CCNP Home Lab Guide: Buying and Configuring an Access Server
Overview
An access server is an essential component of a Cisco home lab for CCNA and CCNP candidates. In this guide, Chris Bryant, CCIE
12933, explains why access servers are important, provides purchasing tips, and shares a sample configuration.
Understanding the Access Server
Initially, CCNA or CCNP candidates might overlook the importance of an access server, as it doesn’t seem critical to the lab’s production functions. However, once your lab grows beyond two devices, constantly switching the console cable between routers can become frustrating. An access server alleviates this issue by allowing you to connect your PC to a single device, eliminating the need to constantly plug and unplug cables.
What Is an Access Server?
Despite its name, an "access server" isn't a traditional server. It's a Cisco router equipped with asynchronous serial ports, which connect to other devices in your lab. Affordable models include the Cisco 2509 and 2511, which are readily available on eBay and other online sources.
Required Equipment
You'll need an octal cable, which connects from the access server to each device in your lab. One end features a large connector for the server, while the other consists of eight RJ-45 connectors, numbered 1 through 8. These connect to the console port on each router and switch. It's crucial to keep track of which number corresponds to each device.
Sample Configuration
Here’s a typical configuration for an access server:
```plaintext
no service password-encryption
no service udp-small-servers
no service tcp-small-servers
hostname BRYANT_ADVANTAGE_AS4
no ip domain-lookup
ip host r1 2001 10.4.4.4
ip host r2 2002 10.4.4.4
ip host r3 2003 10.4.4.4
ip host sw1 2004 10.4.4.4
ip host sw2 2005 10.4.4.4
ip host FrameSwitch 2006 10.4.4.4
interface Loopback555
ip address 10.4.4.4 255.255.255.0
line con 0
exec-timeout 0 0
logging synchronous
line 1 16
no exec
transport input all
```
Key Points
- Loopback Address: Assign any loopback address, ensuring the IP HOST table references the access server's loopback address.
- Port Connections: In this setup, connector 1 connects to R1, 2 to R2, etc. This corresponds with the "2001" number in the IP HOST table.
- Lines Configuration: The command `line 1 16` indicates this access server can connect up to 16 devices. Use `transport input all` and `no exec` to facilitate reverse telnet.
Using the Access Server
When starting a session, open the line to each device using the full hostname from the IP HOST table (e.g., R1, R2). Then, enter the line number (e.g., 1, 2). This might seem complex initially, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
To switch from one device to another, return to the access server before proceeding. This process streamlines once you’re accustomed to it.
Conclusion
Adding an access server to your CCNA or CCNP home lab might not seem essential initially, but as your lab expands, you’ll appreciate the convenience. It allows for smoother operations and more efficient practice, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious candidate.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Cisco CCNA CCNP Home Lab Tutorial Buying And Configuring An Access Server.
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