What is a good choice for buying a cheap Cisco router for learning, practice, testing, etc

Hardware Hub Networking
1

I’ve read getting a simple Cisco 851W for $20 is a good starting place. I want to plug a console cable in as well as use ssh to get more familiar with the process of maintaining them.

Does anyone have any input on this?

[Cisco 851W](http://i.ebayimg.com/images/a/(KGrHqRHJE8FD(Hf(C7)BQ92rGiuZw~~/s-l300.jpg)

2

Do you want to try the hardware. Otherwise use GNS3

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3

Thanks for responding. I want the hardware so I can become more proficient at installing, testing, and diagnosing Cisco routers in the field. I know there are differences between the various models and OSs but having one seems to be a logical thing to do as long as it is inexpensive.

4

I would say get a Cisco 2960 and a Cisco 1841 and use them in conjunction. Possibly two 2960's.

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5

A quick scan of E-Bay tells me I'd spend a little less than $100 for a used Cisco 2960 and a Cisco 1841. Is there anything I should lookout for if buying them used? Any model(s) or adapters that are more likely to be useful? I don't have a T1 or DSL so I wouldn't be able to use those features but it might be good to see them configured? Thanks.

6

Get a Usb to serial adapter and then get a console cable.

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7

Thanks. I already have both. Now I'm thinking of having a live port that I can plug into and explore.

8

Budget constrained pretty much rules out any decent hardware. Most of what you see available for learning/lab gear is 15+ years old. You can get bits and pieces for cheap, or you can buy someone's whole lab - use it - then sell it.
here's an example

I think using software is a better choice.

Also, a lot of community colleges have cisco network academy (or whatever it's called now). That's what I took (but I never took the CCNA).

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9

That might be a little overkill for what I need right now. Down the road it is a very good idea and I will be on the lookout for a good deal. I scanned my local Craigslist and most of the Cisco ads are them wanting to buy used network gear for CA$H!

My goal is to be the guy in my area a national chain or corporation calls to do a quick router refresh in one of their local locations. A lot of the time a new router is delivered and they need someone to install it properly and then set it up so they can access it remotely. If I can establish a basic configuration and get it on-line smoothly then I've made everyone's job a little easier.