Getting started

[Kyuki]

I'm looking at getting started in networking, and was wondering what I would be best with starting off with? I'm interested in Cisco devices, and was hoping to learn it.

Any advice/recommendations are recommended.
I would also like a few cheap recommendations on a router from Cisco to play with, along with a switch.

Thanks

 

[/usr/home]

Cisco 2611 and a Catalyst 2950 for starters. A bunch of various lengths of straight and crossover patch cables.

 

[Kyuki]

Anything else I should get to get started with?

All I really have right now is ISP's Cisco DPC3825 modem + laptops.

 

[tangoseal]

I would start with a book.

Networking for Dummies. learn what networking is how it works on a dummy level then you will be ready for the next stages.

http://www.amazon.com/Networking-Dummies-Sixth-Edition-Doug/dp/0764516779

 

[Kyuki]

Already getting a few books. I was asking if there was anything else I should get with the 2611 + 2950

 

[scottd34]

http://certskills.com/ has some ccna lab setups. You could also start out with a Network + book. It takes you through the basics of networking. CCNA or the equivalent in another vendor is good if you want to move into networking professionally. There are quite a few threads that discuss this in more detail in the forum here.

 

[Chimay]

Also check your local community colleges for a Cisco Academy program. Even if you just take the first class you should get some great beginner knowledge. Most will have access to lab equipment for you as well as virtual resources to leverage. If you enjoy it say for all 4 classes and push towards getting a CCNA certification.

Cisco also has some decent emulators software that would allow you to bring up multiple switches and routers in a virtual environment.

This is a basic one that comes to mind offhand when i took the CCNA coursework several years back.

http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/course_catalog/PacketTracer.html

 

[scottd34]

heres another simulator i had buried in my bookmarks. http://www.gns3.net/ works with several different vendors plus is open source and no cost.

if you want some training videos and have the money to invest in it try these http://www.cbtnuggets.com/