Cisco CCENT/CCNA

[Sparx]

This is one for you guys already working or experience in the Cisco or IT Networking industry. I am looking to move my career into IT doing Networking, I already have a vast interest and a good base knowledge on most xDSL products, setting up a basic home network, etc.

But I don't really fully understand the whole concept of subnets, setting up gateways, DNS servers, servers, etc if I was actually going to try run an IT dept for a company in the real world!

I am looking into doing some Cisco certs, firstly I am looking at doing the CCENT and then the CCNA afterwards. Do people agree this is the best place to start? I am also looking at buying the book CCENT/CCNA ICND1 640-822 Official Cert Guide from the rainforest place.

I've also seen CCENT Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician Study Guide: (ICND1 Exam 640-822) but this isn't released until 3 Jan 2013. However the previous edition of the book has good reviews all round.

Are they worth it? Or do you have any books or other learningresources yourself you can recommend?

Suggestions and opinion chaps would be much appreciated!

 

[Sparx]

Thanks guys for your advice, much appreciated. I hadn't even heard of the PacketTracer program or GNS3!

I passed my CCENT and CCNA exams (a few months ago) using mainly the CBT nuggets videos (if you can get your hands on them), the offical cisco CCNA books, and Packet Tracer (the Cisco simulation software).

At the very least you should have either Packet tracer, GNS3, or find an online practice lab where you can book (for free) some time to actually test out commands, learn how to configure the devices etc... as it's much harder to learn the materials entirely from books without practicing it.

Yes, I much prefer learning 'on the job' if I could, but practical tests/software is much more in my comfort zone then reading books! Theory is not my best learning method.

I have just downloaded GNS3 and I am in the process of uhh, downloading PacketTracer 5.3.3 now.

EDIT: Also just obtained the CBT Nuggets videos.

 

[Sparx]

Decided that I want to order a book tonight chaps, what do you believe would be the best book to grab? This is in addition to using GNS3, PacketTracer, etc.

* CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide (640-802) (by Todd Lammle)
or
* CCENT/CCNA ICND1 640-822 Official Cert Guide (by Wendell Odom)

I've read positive feedback on both Todd Lammle and Wendell Odom. I'm leaning towards Lammle's book personally.

 

[Sparx]

I've now been pondering from someone else's advice if I should do the CompTIA A+ cert first then either Network+ or CCNA.. Really confused as to what I should go with first!

I have a good understanding of Windows OS, basic networking, I can set-up a home network, NAS, etc but that is far as it goes! So now I have been left wondering if I should go for the A+ then CCENT/CCNA, then Network+ or what?!

I really aspire to develop my career and work in the IT Network industry. I just need some solid advice and guidance on what cert would be best to start off with and work towards.

EDIT - I really think working towards the CCENT or CCNA would be best. But then I think the A+ would be a good base cert to go for first, then go for either Network+ or CCNA. But I then wonder is it a waste of money doing the CCENT first if I skip A+ and should I just study longer and go straight for the CCENT course? It's driving me mad!

 

[Sparx]

That's that decided then! Just ordered the CCNA book.

I'm now contemplating setting up a little virtual lab, or maybe buying some cheap Cisco routers to play with. Is any of this worth pursuing?