Boatman, I run 5 Cisco 2950 switches in various models including the last one they produced which is the G Enhanced, I also have 2 2500 series routers and 3 1841 routers with serial cards in them, the routers are all running max memory and compact flash cards, the 1841's run the latest version of IOS that they made for them. I also have over 5 gigs of the IOS systems for various switches and routers. I have 2 Dell 1950 poweredge servers that have Windows server 2012 on them. 2 Linux servers. I make my own cables, I also have a copy of packet tracer and GNS3 that I could send you a copy of if you wanted, it is an older version of packet tracer, but it is good enough to get your studies in for CCNA. Are you planning on going the two course route or the single full CCNA at one time?
Equipment is really not that expensive in relation to what you can get in return, I know when I was doing my interview they really tried to throw some curves at me, but because I had been working with real equipment, I was able to answer and correct all of the problem questions they presented to them. The Equipment I have, I spent less than $500 dollars for, I would recommend getting a couple of routers as well as switches, it will really benefit you to get the hands on experience in all of the various aspects that can come up in the course of a day.
Currently, I hold a CCNA, A+, Network+ and a couple of security certifications.
If I can help, just let me know.
PS. Now I can tell my Daughter who to blame when her computer or network doesn't work! She has worked for the VA for about 15 years now!
