deklin,
I have used both sims and old routers off Ebay, the Cisco Press/Boson sim is one of the best I have worked with.
For $82 (and you might find it even lower if you check Amazon etc.) you can not go wrong. 3 routers and a switch on Ebay, with all cables, max RAM & FLASH and adaptors etc. will run about $275 to $450.
Do not get me wrong - it is VERY IMPORTANT to get hands on with real equipment also but for less then $100 you can get a GREAT sim as you piece together a lab.
From
Cisco CCNA Network Simulator (Exam 640-801) Boson Software Inc
Cisco Press, Published 2004, Bk&CD edition,
ISBN 1587201313
Master hands-on CCNA skills with a network simulator that lets you build your own network, with up to 200 devices Gain hands-on experience for all CCNA exam topics Select from 45 different router and switch models Learn with integrated content from the number-One selling CCNA Certification Library written by Wendell Odom Cisco CCNA Network Simulator is a boxed software product derived from the previously self-published Boson NetSim from Boson Software. It provides users with a means to develop hands-on skills (More...)
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Our Price: $82.25 ~ You Save $67.70
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E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +