CCNA / CCENT Books etc

[mr2fr]

Hi,

I just received my copy of Todd's latest CCNA edition ready to start preparing for CCNA certification.

I'm not yet sure whether I'll attempt the certification exam in one or two steps and so I'm wondering whether I should also get the CCENT book?

Any advice?

Also, as far as labs are concerned, I'm planning on using the Cisco Packet Tracer software rather than investing (in money and space) in routers, switches etc.

Any feelings about this approach?

Finally I'd like to know if the book (or books) and packet tracer are all I need for preparation?

All advice will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

[Fuzz]

The book(s) and Packet Tracer might be all you need, it depends on your current level of knowledge.

If you're completely new to networking then maybe go for the CCENT first and get comfortable with that. If you're already familiar with networking concepts then go straight for the CCNA.

The choice for real gear over sims/ems is a personal one. They aren't necessary but they're a big plus if you can get/afford them. If you're interested in learning what features are available for different platforms/IOS then real gear is a must.

[Big Evil]

I think Fuzz has covered all bases here. What i would like to add if like me (when i started) you have little knowledge in network or have not come from a PC support background. The CCNA is going to be harder as you are expected to have a great deal of knowledge (Cisco once claimed that was 2 years on a NOC! - yeah right).

I would not invest in a home lab right now, if like me you fall in live with Cisco and decide to pursue it to either CC*P or CCIE then the time will be right.

Have fun.

[mr2fr]

Thanks Fuzz,

As far as network knowledge is concerned I'm not a beginner - I used to be LAN/WAN Manager for a small international company, but that was 10 years ago now and things change.

I did start studying for the old CCNA 640-607 but then it was changed to the 640-801 half way through so I gave up.

I've still got the equipment I bought back then but I'm not sure much of it will be useful for the 640-802 : 1924 & 2912 switches, 1601R, 1603, 1605R routers all with memory upgrades and serial cards for Frame Relay and IOS 12.1.

I was thinking about using some of this and adding a 2620 router and a 2950 or 3550 switch but then I came across the Packet Tracer SW and hoped it might save me some money.

My company are also going to send me on the ICND1 & 2 training courses as well as pay for the exam(s) so I'm trying to make the best of it all.

The goal is to get back into networking.

Thanks again for the advice

Cheers
Clive

[mr2fr]

Hi Big_Evil,

Thanks for your comments too - sorry, I didn't see your post while I was replying to Fuzz's post.

I have something like 15 years PC Support experience as well as 2 years in full on networking so I'm hoping I won't find this whole CCNA journey too intimidating. Time will tell :-D

[Big Evil]

Dude it is like riding a horse, apart from you are not in a saddle and there is no horse. :) You really need IOS 12.4, this is why most people use sims.

You will do fine mate, if you get stuck or just want to run thing by post it up.

[mr2fr]

Dude it is like riding a horse, apart from you are not in a saddle and there is no horse. :) You really need IOS 12.4, this is why most people use sims.

You will do fine mate, if you get stuck or just want to run thing by post it up.

Thanks for the confidence Big Evil!

Does that mean I can take off the horse-riding hat too :-D

I'm sure I'll find several moments to pester you with silly questions.

[Big Evil]

I would keep that hat, you never know. ;)