Network +/A+ Boot Camp

kc0bus

I was thinking of going to a Network+/A+ Bootcamp. Has anyone here had any experience at a Boot Camp? Are they worthwhile? Good points? Bad points?

Thanks

jpeezy55

I've been to one before and I don't feel it is the right way to go...I admit, I thought it was a good idea at the time, but afterward, I didn't feel like I learned anything, at least not in depth.

You get hammered with so much information (putting in 8-10 hour days in class, plus "homework") and I don't feel you really get an understanding of the material, just how to regurgitate it for an exam at the end of the 5 days or however long it is (which, for the record, I did not take the exam there, but waited a month or two because I did not feel comfortable taking it...I hate to fail). Honestly, how much can you really learn about A+ or Network+ in 5 days when it is thrown at you so quickly? Also, don't expect them to slow down and cover something again if you miss it, the whole idea of the boot camp is either you get it or you do not. You would be much better off working at it slowly and actually gaining an understanding of the how's and why's of A+ or Net+ rather than glossing over it just to say you have the certification, because that may be all you can do, say that you have it. If you are put in a situation, you may not know how to go about troubleshooting and there is nothing worse than getting a job somewhere and having your employer find out that you can't do it.

Plantwiz

Usually you can buy a lot of books for what a course costs.

Likely they are more for people who have experience but need a fast review, the people I know who have attended have all felt ripped off and under prepared for their exams.

Ricka182

A+ and Net+ are easy enough to not need a bootcamp. Use your money to buy good books, and maybe a Pc or two, they will help more, and can be used iver and over when needed. Bootcamps are generally a ripoff....

Megadeth4168

I think your time and money will be better spent just getting a couple books for teh A+ and Net+ exams.

jescab

I second the motion........

jamesisonline

i agree with the group. boot camps and the lot usually just take a gob of your money and do little in return for you professionally. you are better off studying the materials using several book sources (amazon reviews are a good way to look before you buy).

there are exam cram books that are labeled as "lab" versions in which it gives the reader exercises to do to get a hands on feel.

if you do go for a community college type prep class, make sure they give you lab time to practice the nuts and bolts for A+/Network+.