NEtwORK+ instead of CCNA - PLEASE NEED HELP??

monkey_ninja3

Hey guys, I was hoping you could answer a few questions I have about compTIA.

Ive given myself a few weeks to learn Cisco CCNA and have exam in 1 1/2 weeks.
I think im over my head as I dont have a lab nor any experience in the field.

I want lots of certs on my resumae to attract employees.

I was considering delaying my cisco exam, and doing Network+ instead, as it appears easier.
I saw compTIA A+, INET+ as well, what do they speacialise in and whats teh difference between INET+ and Network+.

How long do you think I need to learn the NETWORK + material, considering ive learnt of lot of stuff from cisco books ??

Grateful for any answers

NinjaMonkey

remyforbes777

How much experience do you have with Networking? CCNA should definitely be the furthest thing from your mind. There is no way (unless you are a genius with a photographic memory) that a person with no experience can obtain the CCNA in a few weeks. If you have no network experience then I would say go the Network + route , but if you are just doing it for hits on your resume then you are doing it for the wrong reasons because Network + is not a good enough cert to gurantee that. Its an entry level basic cert. Do it cause you want to learn more about networking and it's something you are passionate about, not for a resume filler.

monkey_ninja3

I did study cisco material a couple of years ago as part of my degree (which I havnt finsihed), but didnt really take it in account as I felt forced.

Now im embracing it 'cause I genuinally wanna learn.

I have a home network on a belkin router - would you be able to answer any of the other questions now you know more about my situation.
Thanks.

NinjaMonkey

Slowhand

For your situation, I can really only recommend the following: get your hands on some equipment and begin getting as much hands-on practice as possible. You said you had a basic home network with a Belkin router, that's a start. I'd say that starting with Network+ is a good idea, that'll give you a chance to get your hands dirty with some networking concepts before the CCNA. Again, having the proper equipment is crucial, you can't (or, rather, shouldn't) pass your exams without it.

That being said, go out and get yourself the recommended study material. The proper books towards each cert, things like CBT Nuggets and TestOut are going to help you out a lot since you don't have very much experience. If you want to make sure you get some rounded-out knowledge, go with the basics. Start with Network+ and A+, then maybe Linux+ too, before you go on to CCNA or MCP (MCSA/MCSE) certs. Having a broad range of introductory knowledge will help you in your job search, as well as help you on your way when you're trying for the more advanced certs and more involved studying.

For advice on books and equipment you need for various certs, just check out the different sections in this forum, take a look at the stickys, and don't forget to check out the technotes. Also, make sure you get familiar with the site of the vendor your taking a cert from: (be it CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, LPI, or anyone else). You'll find the objectives and recommendations you need to pass all the exams, on the vendor-sites.

monkey_ninja3

Thanks for the helpful advice! Will take it on board .
The only problem is that I need to understand cisco before my final year of my degree - as I blagged it on multiple choice. Which starts September
As we're going to be doing cisco wirless and security modules.
I know ccna expires after 3 years.
Do any of the other cets we mentioned have expiration times to?
Also what is the difference between INET + and NETWORK +
Thanks

NinjaMonkey

Slowhand

Make sure you read up on the CompTIA site closely, they have all the descriptions and specifics for each cert there. Basically, I-Net+ has to do with internet technologies, while Network+ is a networking equipment and protocols certification. I know they're not very clear on the site, until you've actually passed one of their exams, but CompTIA exams are good for life. You never need to renew or update them, once you've passed.

monkey_ninja3

Thanks very much - I'm sure im gonna do the NETWORK + first .. then the INET+, then the CCNA as late as possible before September.

Not sure if I should bother with A + .. on teh website descriptions, looks like a two exam route that is very time consuming.

As I have 14 hours a day over the next month to revise, so im trying to cram as much in as posible.

NinjaMonkey