Posted: 3/25/2010 4:46:53 PM EDT
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I'm trying to put together a relatively inexpensive lab to study for the CCNP exams. At the moment, I have five Catalyst 2924M switches with 8MB/4MB and a single 1760 router with 64/32MB. Obviously, I need to beef up on both switches and routers. I think I've settled on two 2950s and a 3550 switch, but I'm struggling with router choices.
Should I opt for a 2691 with 256/64MB at ~$200, or a 3640 with 128/32MB with an NM-2FE2W for ~$225? The 2691 has two integrated FE ports, while the NM-2FE2W has two FE ports on the module. Which device has the highest throughput? Any caveats I should know about either? Anything that isn't supported that I might need? Both models appear to support 802.1q so I can do router-on-a-stick, and both appear to support new versions of IOS (12.4.25c for both) so I should be set for the 12.4 stuff on the exams. |
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I'd suggest putting the minimum amount possible into the equipment. The 3640 won't have appreciably higher resale than the 2691, so just go with the 2691.
But, my advice may not mean much since I got my CCNP with a home lab that consisted of nothing more than GNS3 for simulating routers, and lots of work experience with switches and wireless to cover those parts. Also, keep in mind that the CCNP curriculum was just heavily revised, being changed from 4 tests to 3 and with some differences in the material covered. I'd be sure of the new requirements before I plopped down good money for gear that might not be necessary or optimal under the new requirements. Good Luck! FluxPrism |
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Also, keep in mind that the CCNP curriculum was just heavily revised, being changed from 4 tests to 3 and with some differences in the material covered. I'd be sure of the new requirements before I plopped down good money for gear that might not be necessary or optimal under the new requirements.
Good Luck! FluxPrism Well said. Check the blueprint and see if the IOS has what you need. CISCO CCNP |
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I would like to build a Dynamips/Dynagen/GNS3/whatever box, but I really prefer to have my hands on the actual equipment for a portion of my lab. I get sufficient day-to-day experience with a wide range of Cisco routers and switches at work, but I really need a lab at home I can play with.
Just to throw this into the mix, 3662s with 96/32MB appear to be selling for $150 right now with no modules. I doubt I will need six network modules, but I suppose the option doesn't hurt. -James |
| I picked it up on eBay for $249 with 256/32MB, and bought 2x 256MB DRAM and 1x 128MB Flash from another vendor for about $50 shipped. The router is running 12.3(6c) IP Base, but I bought the extra DRAM and flash so I could install 12.4(25c) Advanced Enterprise Services. |