Unfortunately it’s not possible to run switches in GNS3 or Dynamips but if you want to pass the CCNP SWITCH you will need the practical experience to beat the exam. I just uploaded a huge lab that I use when i’m teaching switching/ccnp and you can find it in the switching section.
This lab will teach you everything you need to know for the CCNP Switch and it covers portchannels (etherchannel), spanning-tree, VTP (Vlan Trunking Protocol), vlans, private vlans, port-security, trunking and security features.
Let me know what you think of it, I’m curious if you like it!
Have fun!
Rene
Do you want your CCNA or CCNP Certificate?
The How to Master series helps you to understand complex topics like spanning-tree, VLANs, trunks, OSPF, EIGRP, BGP and more.
Written by René Molenaar - CCIE #41726
Hi KD,
It’s impossible to run IOS switches in GNS3. The only thing you could do is take a c3640 and add a NM16 module which will give you switchports.
However it’s limited and you can’t run all the commands you need for this lab or to learn all the switch protocols. For this lab you will need real switches but I wanted to share it anyway…I think it’s a good lab for people studying for the CCNP SWITCH.
If you don’t have the hardware you could always get a rack rental for a day or two and practice around. Otherwise it’s a good idea to buy a few Cisco 3550’s from Ebay (they are not too expensive). You can do everything you need to know with those switches except configure private vlans.
Dear Rene
Hope you doing good. Just clarification. I think we cant do this lab in GNS3. Can we use Router as Switch for this scenario. Excuse me if it is a silly Q.
Thanks
KD