Question about CCNA

Forsaken186Forsaken186 Member Posts: 1 ■□□□□□□□□□
in CCNA & CCENT
Guys,

I just want to say Im glad I joined this forum. This is my first post and I have been looking around on here for a while. I am persuing my CCNA and want to try and get it no later then Feburary. I have been reading alot of theory using the QUE Exam Prep CCNA 801. Alot of people are saying this is question answer book but it isnt. It explains everything in detail that I can see and also has notes and exam alerts for preparing for the exam. I am looking at picking up some routers and switches from cisco kits.com which is located about 30 mins from me here in NJ. My question is, should I continue studying this book as the 801 is retiring in Nov. or should I get another book. I also have the cisco press flash cards which does say for ICND INtro and 802... What equipment do I need to pass this thing with flying colors. Im a pretty fast learner and I want to be successful in the future. After I pass the ccna, ccnp will be next.

Thanks
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Comments

  • networker050184networker050184 Mod Posts: 11,962 Mod
    I always recommend the exam cert guides from Cisco press by Odom. I read through a couple other books when I did my CCNA and didn't thin they were up to par with the Cisco press books. I would get the books for the 802 just to be ensure you don't miss anything. If you plan on going on to the CCNP after I wouldn't suggest you go too cheap on the equipment. Two or three 3640 routers would be nice! I have some 3725, 3640, 2600 and 2800 routers, but I usually use the 3640s. As far as switches you should look for some 2950s and try to get your hands on some multi-layer switches if you come across a bargin since these will be nice when you do the CCNP. If you only want equipment for the CCNA you can go cheaper and get some 2500 routers.
    An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made.
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  • MSU ILLESTMSU ILLEST Member Posts: 13 ■□□□□□□□□□
    So should I take my CCNA by Todd Lammle back to the store? It covers 640-802
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  • networker050184networker050184 Mod Posts: 11,962 Mod
    No I wouldn't take it back. Its always good to have more than one scource to study from. One book my go into more detail on one subject than another. The Cisco press books cover everything very well in my opinion and I think they are the best source for the exam, but not the only one you could use to pass. Some people like the Lammle book better.
    An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made.
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  • MSU ILLESTMSU ILLEST Member Posts: 13 ■□□□□□□□□□
    Would you start with what I have first or go out and by the other book and read that one first? Sorry for so many questions.
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  • networker050184networker050184 Mod Posts: 11,962 Mod
    I don't want to tell you to go spend your money. These are just my opinions and not the only way it can be done. If you feel comfortable with the book you have then by all means use it. It is just my opinion after reading both (the ones for the 801 not 802 mind you) that the Odom book was better. Again this is my opinion.
    An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made.
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  • MSU ILLESTMSU ILLEST Member Posts: 13 ■□□□□□□□□□
    Ok, thanks!!
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  • ITdudeITdude Member Posts: 1,181 ■■■□□□□□□□
    I agree with networker...If you feel pretty good with the basic networking theory just jump into the Cisco Press books for the CCNA. If you want a somewhat less intense(for lack of a better term) overview of the material read the Sybex book first then jump into the Cisco Press books by Odom.

    Also as networker said I STRONGLY recommend actual router and switch hands on versus simulators. The tactile experience along with the visual etc etc in my opinion exceeds what you could learn via simulator. Of course if you have no other choice, a sim is better than nothing. icon_wink.gif

    Keep asking questions here too, you will learn a lot.
    I usually hang out on 224.0.0.10 (FF02::A) and 224.0.0.5 (FF02::5) when I'm in a non-proprietary mood.

    __________________________________________
    Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
    (Leonardo da Vinci)
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