BSCI Passed

Thanks for all the support guys.

Some advice for those getting ready to take it (I don't envy you):

1. Don't neglect the non-OSPF/EIGRP topics. I made the mistake of only partially knowing multicast in my first attempt. I think that's what cost me there. I did significantly better in multicast this time and that may be why I scored a pass.
2. If you don't have the BSCI Lab Portfolio, get it. This book was KEY in filling in multicast gaps in my knowledge and it provided great configuration scenarios that are for the most part 100% compatible with GNS3.
3. Don't think that you can pass this exam on CBTNuggets alone. The BSCI videos by Jeremy were an outstanding introduction and for a while I had the delusion that watching those videos and taking notes would sufficiently prepare me for the test. No way. I used the nuggets as an introduction, but went to the books afterward and didn't look back: Cisco Press BSCI Exam Cert Guide, Cisco Networking Academy BSCI Lab Portfolio (I plan to get the BCMSN version also) and GNS3. I also bought Routing TCP/IP but didn't use it as I found the Lab Portfolio (which arrived at the same time) to be more suited to what I was trying to accomplish (BSCI).
4. Don't look at failed attempts as a waste. It's definitely not; especially the first one. For me it was a wake up call: this ain't CCNA level anymore. If you're the kind of person who wants to slam the test out of the ball park the first try, plan on studying for a long time (5+ months maybe). Otherwise, don't be afraid of failing. You'll probably feel like crap for a few days afterward, but be assured that you'll be rewarded with a pass soon.
5. It wouldn't be a bad idea to use Routing TCP/IP vol. 1 to gain a deeper understanding of the IGPs.

iproute

peanutnoggin wrote: »

CONGRATS!!!! Which exam is next for you?

BCMSN for sure. I've already told my IT manager that I'll be ready to go for our big wireless upgrade early next year

geezer301

iproute wrote: »

BCMSN for sure. I've already told my IT manager that I'll be ready to go for our big wireless upgrade early next year

Get this book - CWNA official study guide (Exam PW0-104).

This will be a good reference book for your wireless upgrade project as well as getting you the CCNA-Wireless in no time (I guess you can get some hand-on time with a WLC from work).

Cyanic

iproute wrote: »

Thanks for all the support guys.

Some advice for those getting ready to take it (I don't envy you):

......

Thanks for the advice. I am about to start my studying.

Congrats on the pass.