New comer

Icem@n

Ok pplz. Since i cant do the vista exam and i am now turning to the cisco cert track. i am new to it and would like some information as to what is the first exam on the list and some tips of studying and what materials i should use?

Please assist guyz.

Thanks much in advance.

georgemc

Try this:

http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/learning_career_certifications_and_learning_paths_home.html

and this:

http://forums.cisco.com/eforum/servlet/PrepCenter?page=main

Netstudent

You can do the 2 test track for CCNA or the single composite exam. I personally like Todd Lammle's sybex CCNA book and Cisco press. A new test went into effect and wll be mandatory on November6th. After that you have to take the revised and probably slightly more difficult version. I think the new cisco press books are already out, but Todd Lammle's book for the new exams hasn't been released yet. You will want to get some gear or a good simulator like dynamips. Even with dynamips, you will need 2 or 3 switches because it doesn't emulate switching very well from what I've heard. You can get all the switches you need for 150-200 bucks.

There are tons of threads on homelabs and reading material. good luck.

MSU ILLEST

I thought the new book was the 6th edition. Isn't the new test 640-802?

I too am a new comer and this will be my first certification. Can I really just use that new book and pass or will I need a lot of other tools?

Netstudent

You will probably need more than just a book to pass the CCNA. Most people use simulators or buy a homelab. If you are serious about cisco as a career, then a homelab is the only way to go. The test requires knowledge that you gain by practicing hands on concepts. There is a large portion of theory on the test, but the gear reinforces all the theory.

MSU ILLEST

How much will that cost? I use a macbook, will it be compatible? Also, how long is the average study time to be able to pass the test?

networker050184

Look on ebay for cheap prices on lab equipment. A lot of people sell their labs when they are done for reasonable prices.

What do you mean is your Macbook compatible? You can use it to console into the equipment if that is what you are asking.

I'd have to say the average time is betweeen two to four months of study from what I've heard from people around here. It really depends on the individual and their prior knowledge. Since you don't have any I'd say your probably looking more towards the higher range. Don't rush it though. If you want to make a career out of networking you will benifit a lot more from taking your time and learnign the material rather than just memorizing what you need for thre exam. Good luck!

MSU ILLEST

Ok, thanks!!