Passing The CCNA And CCNP Cisco Home Lab FAQ
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Computer Certification.
Passing the CCNA and CCNP: Cisco Home Lab FAQ
Summary:
CCNA and CCNP aspirants often have questions about setting up a Cisco home lab. Chris Bryant, CCIE
12933, has guided many candidates in assembling their labs. Here, he answers the top five questions about home labs.
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Article Body:
Today, more CCNA and CCNP candidates are choosing to build their own Cisco home labs instead of relying on router simulators. This approach is the most effective way to thoroughly prepare for these challenging exams.
I receive hundreds of emails each month from candidates setting up their first labs or expanding existing ones. Here, I’ll address five common questions about home labs.
Do I Have to Spend Thousands of Dollars?
No, you don’t. Many online vendors, including those on eBay, sell used Cisco routers and switches ideal for exam preparation. They offer kits with multiple devices or individual pieces. You can start small with a few hundred dollars or make a larger investment for a more comprehensive lab.
What’s an "Access Server"?
Contrary to its name, an access server isn’t a typical server. It’s a Cisco router that connects you to multiple other routers and switches, eliminating the need to constantly move the rollover cable. While not essential initially, an access server becomes invaluable as your lab grows, saving you time and effort.
What’s a "Frame Relay Switch"?
Despite the name, it’s not a traditional switch. It’s a Cisco router configured as a frame relay provider for your home lab. While not vital immediately, it becomes crucial for practicing frame relay map statements. Configuring a frame relay switch is straightforward and provides invaluable practice for exam day.
Do I Need a Switch? Which One Should I Buy?
A switch is recommended for your lab; if possible, include two. Ensure at least one switch has an IOS?"unlike 1900 switches, which lack one and offer limited practice for CCNA and CCNP. Consider the 2500 series switches.
Building a CCNP Lab for CCIE: What Should I Buy?
Predicting the technologies and devices for the CCIE lab is tricky. Cisco regularly updates the CCIE lab blueprint, and devices can become obsolete, affecting your budget. For instance, ISDN and ATM are being removed from the CCIE Routing & Switching lab. If you bought an ATM switch, it might now be redundant. While a home lab helps practice core protocols, keeping it entirely up-to-date with the Cisco blueprint can be costly.
Building a CCNA or CCNP home lab is a wise decision, one I highly endorse. As home labs become more affordable, now is the perfect time to start. Explore used Cisco router vendors on platforms like eBay and Google. Soon, you’ll be practicing with real Cisco equipment, setting yourself up for exam success.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Passing The CCNA And CCNP Cisco Home Lab FAQ.
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