Question Regarding Physical Lab Access for CCIE Security Exam

[MuathA.]

Hello everyone,

I'm currently preparing for the CCIE Security lab exam. While all the required virtual machines for the lab are available for download, I was wondering if there are any options to practice with the physical equipment mentioned in the lab equipment documentation—especially since features like multi-context mode aren't available in the virtual editions.

In other words, does Cisco—or any third party—offer access to physical lab environments, either free or paid?

The CCIE Security lab equipment document specifically lists the following physical devices:

Cisco ASA 5512 – Version 9.2

Cisco ASA 5516 – Version 9.8

Cisco Catalyst 3650 – Version 16.6

Cisco Catalyst 3850 – Version 3.7

Cisco AP1852 – Version 8.3

I'm aware that I could purchase used equipment online, but I'm exploring alternative options if available.

[Santhosh-Dhanapal]

Hi Muatha,

Please check the link below

https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/learn/training-certifications/certifications/expert/practice-labs.html

Cheers,

Santhosh Dhanapal

[balaji.bandi]

Personally i would not waste the money buying hardware and buying License it cost more than CCIE Lab cost, instead i use Practice Lab, create own LAB and test locally, this give more Return of Investment, than buying hardware.

https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/article/ccie-security-practice-labs

I am using PNET Lab or CML 2.8 for my Lab exam preparation.

[julian.bendix]

Another common things is Rack Rentals ... where companys offer access to Racks with the Hardware needed to study for a specific CCIE for a certain amount of time .. paid of course.

[wajidhassan]

Hi @MuathA. ,

Great question — and it’s definitely an important consideration when preparing for the CCIE Security lab.

At the moment, Cisco doesn’t offer free access to the physical gear mentioned in the lab equipment list. And as you pointed out, some key features like multi-context mode on the ASA aren’t available in the virtual versions.

A common approach is to go with third-party rack rentals. There are a few reliable providers that offer remote access to fully built CCIE Security labs, using the exact hardware and software versions from the blueprint. It's a paid option, but usually much easier (and more practical) than setting everything up on your own.

Also, if you're taking any training through a Cisco Learning Partner, it's worth checking whether they include lab access as part of the course — some do offer that.

So while there's no official free lab from Cisco, these alternatives can definitely help you get the hands-on time you need.

Wishing you the best in your CCIE Security journey!

[balaji.bandi]

some key features like multi-context mode on the ASA aren’t available in the virtual versions.

ASAv support - 

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/security/asa/asa917/asav/getting-started/asav-917-gsg/asav_intro.html?bookSearch=true

[MuathA.]

Are you sure? this is what I found.

Thanks,

[balaji.bandi]

I have not tried, i was told ASAv support 9.17 later Multi-context and cluster, i will review later.

but if you working virtual 9.5 Version (OLD image available) still support cluster and Multi-context.

[MuathA.]

Thank you @wajidhassan 

Can you name/recommend some third-party rack rentals?

[wajidhassan]

Sure, here are a few well-known third-party providers that offer CCIE Security rack rentals with physical gear:

• INE – One of the most established training platforms; they offer rack rentals with real equipment and detailed lab scenarios.

• Micronics Training – Known for offering flexible rental options and support tailored to CCIE candidates.

• NetLab (by NDG) – Used by some institutions and training partners; may be available through affiliated programs.

• Cisco Learning Partners – Some, like Fast Lane or Global Knowledge, may offer lab access as part of their CCIE prep bundles.

Availability, pricing, and hardware details may vary, so it’s a good idea to review what each provider includes and how closely it matches the official blueprint.

Hope this helps with your prep!

[Marvin Rhoads]

Please consider answers obviously created with a generative AI tool with skepticism.

I wholeheartedly agree with @balaji.bandi 's approach.