GNS3 for Cisco Certification (CCNA/CCNP)

• Basic understanding of networking fundamentals (OSI model, IP addressing)
• Familiarity with Cisco IOS CLI
• Prior exposure to routing and switching concepts

Audience

• Networking professionals preparing for Cisco certifications (especially CCNA and CCNP)
• Technicians and engineers needing hands-on practice with Cisco IOS
• IT trainers and instructors building Cisco-aligned lab environments

GNS3 is a network simulation tool that allows IT professionals to design and test network configurations using real Cisco IOS images in a virtual environment.

This instructor-led, live training (online or onsite) is aimed at intermediate-level networking professionals who wish to prepare for Cisco CCNA or CCNP certifications using GNS3 to simulate Cisco devices and build exam-aligned topologies.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Install and configure GNS3 for Cisco certification lab environments.
• Import and manage Cisco IOS images for routers and switches.
• Build and test topologies aligned with CCNA and CCNP exam objectives.
• Practice real-world routing, switching, and troubleshooting scenarios.

Format of the Course

• Interactive lecture and discussion.
• Hands-on lab exercises using Cisco devices in GNS3.
• Exam-aligned configurations and practice simulations.

Course Customization Options

• To request a customized training for this course, please contact us to arrange.

Introduction to GNS3 for Cisco Certification

• GNS3 architecture and system requirements
• Benefits of GNS3 for CCNA/CCNP prep
• Installing GNS3 and setting up the GNS3 VM

Importing and Managing Cisco IOS Images

• Understanding Cisco IOS image types and licensing
• Importing IOS, IOU/IOL, and appliance templates
• Using Idle-PC values and resource optimization

Working with Routers and Switches

• Adding Cisco routers and switches to a topology
• Configuring interfaces, routing protocols, and VLANs
• Simulating multi-router and multilayer switch environments

Building CCNA/CCNP Lab Topologies

• Static and dynamic routing (RIP, OSPF, EIGRP)
• Switching labs: VLANs, VTP, STP
• Inter-VLAN routing and trunking

Advanced Protocols and Features

• ACLs and NAT configuration
• HSRP, EtherChannel, and port security
• Basic BGP (for CCNP-level scenarios)

Troubleshooting and Packet Capture

• Using Wireshark for live packet analysis
• Show/debug commands for fault isolation
• Simulating failures and performance issues

Exam Preparation and Practice Scenarios

• Designing exam-aligned lab exercises
• Reviewing common configuration tasks
• Practicing time-bound simulations

Summary and Next Steps