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Cisco has a good sim sw called Packet Tracer that we've used for labs. It might be floating around on the web somewhere.
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BTW, are you going to take the CCNA test or split it and do the CCENT stuff first?
I'm kinda thinking about doing CCENT just so I can see how Cisco structures their tests.Comment
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GNS3 is helpful too. Heck, we use that to sandbox our R/S design concepts before presenting to the customer.
To be completely honest, I've talked with people who attended the community colleges for Cisco "training" and it would seem to me that most of those instructors should be attending the class.
Sims are one thing and can be helpful. However, nothing can replace a home lab. If you're serious about being a Cisco type admin/eng you're going to spend some money on your equipment and training. Some can finagle a lab by borrowing work equipment, ebay/CL are also good options.
However, think it through before you do it. I don't know how many people spend thousands on gear, just to realize it's not "easy" and make 1001 excuses - then the gear sits there and the money is wasted.
Then, I'd also recommend any training by Todd Lammle. Excellent books, excellent classroom/bootcamps...etc. Great stuff overall.
Still...lab gear and making various things work is going to help you build confidence - especially if you can't/don't do it everyday.Originally posted by MR EDDComment
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i recently used packet tracer and that's pretty good. where that falls short GNS3 will work.
really what you need is to get all the concepts down. don't worry about corner cases, exceptions, all that other small detailed crap at this level. basic concepts will take you far enough.
if you've never ever touched a real router, go find a CC w/ a lab and see if they have open lab hours so you can play with it on your time.
i wouldn't worry about a home lab until you have your first job, and odds are they'll have their own lab (or you'll be building one) there.Comment
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