How to practice labbing - best practices

Labbing is one of the most important aspects of learning networking and preparing for examinations. There are many approaches to labbing. Below you will find some of the most common and useful approaches that can be used:

You can use network simulators or emulators on your computer to create, configure, and modify network topologies. Some of the most common ones include:

• GNS3 - a free open source emulator
• EVE-NG - a free open source emulator
• Cisco VIRL - an older version of Cisco's online emulator
• Cisco CML - an online emulator, the successor to VIRL
• Cisco Packet Tracer - Cisco's simulator software package

Alternatively you can purchase switches and routers and create a lab from real physical equipment. This can get expensive, although older used devices are available for purchase at very low prices.

Additional information can be found here:

• ASA - emulating an ASA device
• Home lab computer requirements
• EVE-NG supported Cisco and other vendor images
• GNS3 how to obtain Cisco IOS images
• SD-WAN - EVE-NG connection options
• Cisco SD-Access home lab
• getting a network job without experience

Links

https://networklessons.com/cisco/ccie-enterprise-infrastructure/ccie-rs-lab-equipment

https://networklessons.com/cisco/ccnp-encor/cisco-ccnp-switch-lab-equipment