lab for network+

[nedia]

i have a couple of older machines lying around which i intend on networking up for playing around with

my question is how many computers do i need, what equipment and what programs are required?

thanks in advance!

[boots2k]

dont bother, just use virtual pcs.

[nedia]

how do i do that and is it definitely an advantage over using a couple of machines?

[boots2k]

download virtual pc 2007 free from microsoft

Make sure you have a least a gig of ram

Install the trial version of windows server 2003 on the 1st virtual pc

Then install 2 client virtual pcs.

I have only just done it in the last 3 days and it was real simple.

The network connections as sorted themselves out (no configuration required)

I have my server running a domain and 2 clients that can log in.

I have A file server, Internet etc sorted.

I know absolute zero about Networks, so If I can do it you can too.

[greenbrucelee]

Originally Posted by boots2k

download virtual pc 2007 free from microsoft

Make sure you have a least a gig of ram

Install the trial version of windows server 2003 on the 1st virtual pc

Then install 2 client virtual pcs.

I have only just done it in the last 3 days and it was real simple.

The network connections as sorted themselves out (no configuration required)

I have my server running a domain and 2 clients that can log in.

I have A file server, Internet etc sorted.

I know absolute zero about Networks, so If I can do it you can too.

Yep thats the way to do it.

[morph]

u dont need a lab mate - virtual pc - but to be honest u probably wouldnt need to go that for with the network +

[Sparky]

Don’t remember any Server 2003 in the Network+

Although you did ask about a lab make sure you focus on the OSI model, cable types and their spec for this exam.

[Sparky]

Originally Posted by boots2k

The network connections as sorted themselves out (no configuration required)

No network config for a domain controller?

[Lev Arris]

If your old PCs have NICs then I'd recommend networking them if you have not done so before.

Teaches you stuff like the need for a crossover cable. The fact PCs will not automatically talk without either DHCP or static IP etc..

Its personal choice I s'pose but I like to physically do things.

[nedia]

im familiar with networking and could easily enough stick a few pc's together, second problem is i dont have a fast enough machine for this virtual business

like yourself i like doing stuff physically and find it more interesting, and would like a small network to play around with then break and fix and learn!

[Jay_7]

I am in the fortunate position that I had a few PC's kicking about the place. One has been upgraded with 1.5GB Ram, and a 500GB hard disk and is currently running Server 2003 running my network at home. Installation and configuration is a doddle (well I found it a doddle anyway). There are 2 client PC's, one running Vista Ultimate, the other is on XP Pro and the network is wired for 1GBps connectivity.

I probably wouldn't have even attempted this before had it not been for my A+ and my Network+ training to date.

Anyone else experienced the joy of finally getting a Vista machine to log into a Server 2003 environment without getting the temporary profile?