ASA Versions chart

[nanochillbot]

I have a student interested in purchasing an ASA from ebay for a home lab.

The question is what is the version # that is stamped on the chassis ie: Cisco ASA 5505 Series v11 or Cisco ASA 5505 Series v08, etc, 
does not indicate the possible ASA and ASDM version.

Is there a matrix chart of some kind ?

Thanks

[Danny Mainprize]

Not really.  You would have to assume that whatever version asa/asdm is on the device is 1 below whatever you want to use it for.  If you are buying it on ebay there is nothing saying there is even a software image on it at all.

Best bet is to buy one of the devices from a reputable reseller, like cdw, tech data, or one of a bunch of resellers.

[Marvin Rhoads]

The versions numbers you mention are indicators of hardware revision only. Those change due to minor tweaks in manufacturing components that generally have nothing to do with the software on the units. They are completely separate from any ASA or ASDM software which may or may not be installed.

Some people have an OK experience with eBay but many others have posted here over the years reporting hardships with units that they got with either very old or missing software. When a deal is too good to be true it usually has something that will make you unhappy. I would concur with Danny's recommendation to go with an authorized reseller.

You can opt for a refurbished unit. Check out Curvature (formerly Network Hardware Resellers) - I have had good experience with them in years past when I was an end customer and not a partner. 

https://www.curvature.com/cisco/security/adaptive-security-appliance