They show in the labs list as "suspended." As far as I can tell, there is no mechanism currently in place to mark the labs as completed. Labs which you have started can be paused and resumed at any time. It would be if the lab documentation was available from the main lab interface to avoid this minor hassle. Read over the lab diagrams and tasks at your leisure and starting again when you're ready. Before beginning a lab, I suggest logging in for just long enough to save the "all tasks" page and then exiting the lab to avoid eating into your purchased time. I don't like that the timer runs even when not consoled into any devices. (Windows users can probably just use Putty as the handling application.) Alternatively, users can opt to telnet to the specified IP address and port as they would with a real device. I used the instructions here and a modification of this script for Firefox on Linux. Note that hyperlink functionality requires your browser to understand the telnet: URI scheme.
Devices are accessed via Telnet by clicking on icons within the topology. Starting a lab initiates the countdown timer and displays the lab topology. The main lab interface is slick and simple, featuring only a list of available labs, remaining purchased time (in minutes), and a thorough FAQ. This can lead to a frustrating case of being asked to log in immediately after logging in if you follow the "launch learning" button from within the CLN store.
Logging into the lab system requires your CLN username and a separate password which is emailed to you.
It's worth pointing out that for as much, one could buy a used Catalyst 3550-24 or several 2600 series routers.īut you're not just purchasing console hours: The learning labs include a dozen or so structured lab challenges, each with a topology, configuration tasks, and answer keys.Īfter purchasing lab time, I noticed that Cisco still hasn't quite gotten the single sign-on thing down. Assuming that a prospective CCNP candidate purchased the minimum amount of time in each of the three CCNP labs, he or she would spend $225 on 75 hours of lab time. The ICND2 time blocks sell at $2 and $4 per hour, respectively.
The professional level labs sell at $3 USD per hour in 25-hour blocks, or $6/hr in 5-hour blocks. Scheduling the LabĬurrently, Cisco offers five lab products, each focused on a particular certification exam:Ĭustomers must purchase a minimum of 25 hours per lab, and can purchase additional time in 5- or 25-hour blocks.
This is a much more favorable alternative to Packet Tracer and other simulation software, although still not quite as good as real hardware.Ĭurious how well the learning labs have been executed, I decided to try one out (and hopefully brush up on my MPLS skills at the same time). The draw for CCNA- and CCNP-level certification candidates is that they can rent lab time to practice on emulated routers and switches (similar in concept to Dynamips).
For the first time, Cisco labs are available for both routing and core switching features, giving you the practical experience that is desired to boost your knowledge and confidence before taking your Cisco certification exam.Ĭisco's not-for-sale IOU software has been used internally for years, but this is the first time Cisco has employed it as part of a commercial offering. From the site:Ĭisco Learning Labs go beyond the Cisco simulator Packet Tracer by enabling virtual access to actual CCNA, CCNP, and CCIP practice lab bundles that are powered by Cisco IOS Software on UNIX. Earlier this month Cisco introduced a hosted training lab product dubbed Learning Labs, branded as part of the Cisco Learning Network.