[TriLUG] Slightly OT: Connecting a Cisco router to a Linux box via serial connection?

[David A. Cafaro]

On Wed, 2003-12-24 at 09:03, Phillip Rhodes wrote:
> Hi guys, have a question for you router experts! I'm thinking about 
> going for my CCNA certification, and found today that we have a spare 

<Snipped some stuff>

> ional WAN interface card).
> 
> So, given that,  Could I possibly do a straight serial -> serial 
> connection to a Linux box setup to simulate the upstream router at an 
> ISP? If so, I'd appreciate any pointers on how to proceed...

The serial connection you are talking about is not the same kind of
serial port on your PC.  It's been a while, but I think you can program
in a loop back interface on the cisco serial port to do some simulation,
but it's been a long time since I worked on that type of router.  Also
you could check the web and see if it's possible to build a cheap
loopback plug.  Otherwise you will need a CSU/DSU to hook up with.

> 
> Oh, I should probably add that I'm willing to purchase either another 
> WAN interface for the Cisco, and/or additional interface boards for my 
> PC, if needed, assuming the price isn't outrageous.

<Snip some more>

> describing is even possible, I'd need to know what kind of board to buy 
> for the PC and maybe some pointers on how to configure this setup...
> 
> Or if it's just plain not possible, somebody please tell me so I won't 
> waste time on this.

Don't waste your time on it.  Just use the cisco router to get the feel
of their command line and play with some of the ethernet interface
stuff.  To learn more of the networking either purchase the Sybase Cisco
book that comes with a software lab, or check out these people:

http://www.gambitcomm.com/site/company/

They make a cisco network simulator that should give you a little hands
on experience (even runs on Linux!).  I almost got it back when I was
thinking of getting my CCNP.  I don't know how well it works, but a few
people said it was pretty good.

Good luck!
-David
-- 
David A. Cafaro <dac(at)cafaro.net>
Sys Admin to User: "You did what?!?"