Cisco IOS Software

[vorgusa]

I am taking a CCNA class right now and decided to get a used 871 router to practice on. I noticed that it has the ability to have optional software, but I can not find out how to add it. I see places to download it from the cisco site, but it says I have to register, so I register and it still does not let me. Am I supposed to purchase it? if so where?

 

[jlazzaro]

youll need a valid smartnet contract purchased from an authorized cisco reseller. you can probobly get a software only license and save a few bucks. once you have a contract number, simply associated it with your Cisco account.

 

[ScottMac]

You can buy new and upgrade IOS from CIsco partners, like CDW (www.cdw.com) without buying a contract.

They can also sell you a SmartNet contract appropriate for your needs.

Chances are the difference between an IOS purchase and a SmartNet contract for your 871 will be close enough that I suggest going for the SmartNet contract (probably 8X5XNext Business Day).

Good Luck

Scott

 

[nightowl]

SmartNet will not cover feature license changes. SmartNet only entitles you to support on the router and software.

 

[spidey07]

yep, when you buy a router you specify what feature set you want and pay for the license to use that software on that router. Smartnet enables you to download any version of that software with that feature set to run on that router. Heck you can download any software you want but you're only licensed for that feature set.

If you want more features you will need to purchase a license for it.

Cisco is sometimes lenient with licenses for learning or lab purposes so you may be able to call them and they "may" cut you some slack.

 

[vorgusa]

cool... I will look into both smartnet and Cisco. I am curious how much they are going to want to charge

 

[freegeeks]

dynamips + a cisco IOS is all you need