CCNP - Switch Suggestions

[Rygo]

Hi. I am studying for the CCNP Encor and up until now I have been using GNS3 and eve-ng. I'm now looking at purchasing small physical switches as I am tired of learning that not all commands/functionalities work on simulated environments. Due to space constraints, I am looking at something like Cisco Catalyst WS C3560C - will this allow me to do every switch-related task on the Encor? Also, is there a similar L3 equivalent at a similar price point as I'd like to simulate my current work environment. Thanks.

[Enes Simnica]

gDay @Rygo The 3560c will work for a lot of CCNP ENCOR switching topics, but it won’t cover everything. Some newer features (SD-Access, modern QoS models,....... etc.) aren’t supported on older hardware. For ENCOR-level labs, most people use Catalyst 3650/3850 or 9200-L switches, they’re more up-to-date and usually affordable on the used market.

For L3 at a similar price point, a 3560G/3560X or 3750X is a solid option and supports most routing features u’ll need.

hope it helps and good luck!!!

-Enes

[Rygo]

Hi @Enes Simnica thanks for the advice. I will have a look at these options.

[Joseph W. Doherty]

Cannot say whether it can allow for anything on the Encor, but have you looked at CML?

The CML's virtual routers seem to be on feature par with real routers running like version code.

Cannot, though, comment directly on the virtual switches, as my PC doesn't have the resources to even spin one up.  (Which, possibly, indicates, they too might be on part with similar physical switches.)

[David Ruess]

I agree with @Joseph W. Doherty if you have the resources to run CML free version which includes 5 nodes. If you are already using GNS3 virtually and it uses resources to spin up devices I would imagine its pretty close with CML.

-David