The NM-16ESW module in GNS3 #1

When it comes to practising switching, everyone knows there is nothing like real gear. Nothing? Well there are some workarounds which we will cover here to show you ways to train your switching skills without using real hardware.

Today we will cover the use of the NM-16ESW module in GNS3 which will give you a 16 port 10/100 Layer 2 device within your 2600 / 3600 / 3700 router.

Isn`t it cute? The NM16ESW module in real life.

The NM-16ESW module will be able to do some basic switch functions like:

• Layer 2 Ethernet interfaces
• Switch Virtual Interfaces (SVI)
• VLAN Trunk Protocol (VTP): domains, all modes (server, client and transparent), pruning and passwords.
• Trunking: 802.1Q only, no ISL, no dynamic auto or dynamic desirable mode.
• EtherChannel: no LACP and Pagp support. Manual configuration supported.
• Spanning Tree Protocol: simple STP supported but no MSTP, RSTP or other advanced stuff.
• Cisco Discovery Protocol
• Switched Port Analyzer (SPAN)
• Quality of Service: mls qos commands and mls qos maps are supported.
• IP Multicast Support
• Storm Control
• Flow Control

This should cover most of the stuff you would want to practise for the CCENT / CCNA exams however for a complete documentation see EtherSwitch Network Module documentation on ciscos website.


Lets get started:

Plug the NM16-ESW module into Slot 1 to get 16 layer 2 ports in your router

First of all you need a router image which supports the module. I am using the C3660-jk.bin but there are a ton of images which will support the NM-16ESW module.

Having your router placed in the GNS3 topology you need to right click on the device and go:

Configure ->  R1 -> Slots

Select the NM-16ESW module from the pulldown menu in slot1 and you are good to go.

I will add some configuration examples and GNS3 lab files featuring the NM16-ESW later.