New here. Changing careers!

Hello all, just found this forum after researching google for CCNA books. I used to live in NoVA right outside of DC and its a big IT area to live in. Alot of my friends were IT guys and I was always intrigued by it. I train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and while I was in the DC area alot of the guys I trained with were IT guys. I started to study for my A+ but everytime I started I got pulled away and never really pursued it. Well, 6-7 yrs pass by and now I'm really considering getting into this field. I moved back to SC, my hometown, after having my son to be near family. I was a low-level graphic design guy back then, former Marine, and got pushed into blue collar work when I moved down here. I deliver Coke and drive a big rig! I'm a hands-on kinda guy, what ya see is what ya get kinda person. I like the hard work but its getting old and Im getting older (36 in Feb) and really tired of it. It's time to use my brain now instead of my body and I want to save my energy for BJJ and other activities instead of Coke. Anyway, I'm trying to see what is the best route to go. I keep hearing CCNA is the way to go but I would like some input. Should I get my A+ then go for CCNA or just go CCNA and add others later, like Network+, Sec+ etc...?

thanks guys, this seems like a great forum and place to learn. I look forward to chatting with you guys.

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chiefwarrant250n

For me personally I started with the Network+ exam just to make sure I really understood the IT world since I was a satellite communications guy in the Army for 9 yrs. If you already have a good understanding then I would start with CCNA and not waste your time with Network+

Chappy77

I have no understanding! haha Totally new to all this. I do know that I am not good a programming. I'm hands-on. So setting up networks seems like the path for me but Im not really sure. thats why Im here, trying to ask and figure this out before I commit. So maybe going A+, Network+ then CCNA maybe a good start?

YFZblu

Might I suggest CCENT instead of Network+. CCENT will cover all of the important topics network+ hits, but will be halfway to CCNA and does include some configuration. It is more useful than Net+, IMO.

DoubleNNs

I'd suggest A+ first, then CCENT. Also, after gaining the A+, you might be able to find some part-time/volunteer entry level IT work to gain experience. That way, you can keep receiving the compensation from your truck driving, while gaining the experience that employees will look at when you're applying for higher-paid IT jobs in the future.

Chappy77

YFZblu wrote: »

Might I suggest CCENT instead of Network+. CCENT will cover all of the important topics network+ hits, but will be halfway to CCNA and does include some configuration. It is more useful than Net+, IMO.

ok, I'll def look into that

nevanerviss

From one Marine (AND truck driver) to another, I would suggest that you start with "baby steps"... By that I mean, start with the Net+, and work your way up from there...

Going for the CCNA (or CCENT) straight out the cab will be like trying to drink water from a fire hose...

Especially if you're starting from ground zero (in terms of experience), then the familiarity that the Net+ will provide will make a lot of the stuff on the CCENT make sense...

Typically, people get the A+, then the Net+, then the Sec+, but I never got A+... I just went for the Net+, and the Sec+, then straight on to the CCNA, but that was BEFORE Cisco split the test in half... I could not have gotten the CCNA without first starting with the Net+, because a lot of that stuff would NOT have made sense to me...

Chitownjedi

A+ Net+ Security+ is a good starting foundation. You can have variation in that, one you can Get A+..can't get any more hands on then hardware!

Net+ is great foundation leading into CCENT, but once you get CCENT it kind makes Net+ (not kind of , it does) make it invisible. SO you could study the Net+ material but don't take the test, and just transition into the CCENT and save about 150.00$ Then from there get Security+ or finish off ICND2 for CCNA. Once you get that then you can lift your head to see what's next.

In terms of foundation A+Net+Security CCNA or A+ CCENT/CCNA Security + is a good start. If you are pass the A+ material again you could study it just to brush up, study net+ to brush up... and then go straight into ccent/ccna..and then take security+ after, (or before)

just tossing stuff out there. GL

Professor Messer has content for the Comptia Triad for free on Youtube.

MeatCatalogue

A+ and net+ are fundamental skill sets you'll use for the rest of your life even if you don't got into IT. If your computer is broken or you need to upgrade it A+ will certify that you know how. And virtually every home in america has a local area network or wifi adapter. Being able to troubleshoot it, lay your own wire or be in control of all of that is awesome. Net plus will get you there. A good corollary would be A+ and net+ would teach you how to change your oil, plugs, fuel filter and a few more complicated things. You'll find a job but how much do Jiffy Lube techs get? Not much. Probably less than driving a coke truck.

Once you get those two you can move on to bigger things like microsoft, cisco, linux. Do you love staring at command lines? Do you enjoy working around nerds or do you prefer working in a corporate environment where you are the "big nerd on campus" ? There are questions you'll ask yourself later. If you enjoyed the knowledge/power that A+ and net+ certification gave you, IT is the career for you.

The greatest thing about IT is you can land a job paying $40k a year in less than 6 months of self study. A+ may take a few months, net+ a couple more, ccna or linux plus another couple. If you didn't have a job and studied 8 hours a day you could get there in a month or 2 even.

I say start with A+ and work your way up to net+ and then evaluate which path you want to go.

dave330i

Thought CCENT & CCNA were both pretty easy when I took them few years back.

Qord

Do you have any GI Bill benefit left?

Mrkali

I did my A+ and N+ in about 2 months total. I enjoyed the N+ material. I found my current job after a little under 2 months of looking, doing technical support for a local ISP. I'm now currently studying for the CCNA.

Chappy77

thanks guys, lots of good advice. I think A+ and Net+ will be a good route to go for now then look into the CCNA route. Getting the first two will be a good test for me on whether or not this is the right path. I don't have the GI bill left unfortunately. I've been out since '99. I would love to get enough good certs then move back to the DC area! Bout to get on it, thanks guys!

Chappy77

nevanerviss wrote: »

From one Marine (AND truck driver) to another, I would suggest that you start with "baby steps"... By that I mean, start with the Net+, and work your way up from there...

Going for the CCNA (or CCENT) straight out the cab will be like trying to drink water from a fire hose...

Especially if you're starting from ground zero (in terms of experience), then the familiarity that the Net+ will provide will make a lot of the stuff on the CCENT make sense...

Typically, people get the A+, then the Net+, then the Sec+, but I never got A+... I just went for the Net+, and the Sec+, then straight on to the CCNA, but that was BEFORE Cisco split the test in half... I could not have gotten the CCNA without first starting with the Net+, because a lot of that stuff would NOT have made sense to me...

thanks Devil Dog!

EV42TMAN

I say do A+ then Net+
Net+ gives you all the theory without the headache of little details

When you're ready to start the CCNA do the 2 test method since you said you have no experience and save up for a home lab. Virtualizing Cisco labs in GNS3 works but, if you want to truly learn Cisco buy a home lab.
When it comes to study materials i recommend The vendors official study guide and the CBT nuggets series for certification. I use them for every certification i have.

DoubleNNs

Think someone else mentioned it but one plan you could think of is A+, then study for Net+ and *don't* take it. Instead, start studying for the CCNA. There's 2 tests and the 1st in the pair is a slightly more advanced version of the net+, which when you pass it grants you the CCENT cert. The only reason why i suggest this route instead of A+->Net+->CCNA is because going A+->CCNA will save you $250 and possibly anywhere from a week to a month of study time.

However, if the extra $250 doesn't bother you (didn't bother me because my Dad paid for my own Net+) going the Net+ route might probably be better. Feels so good to pass a cert test, and gives you confidence when attempting the subsequent exams. Net+ first would also build your resume faster - which would be great esp if you don't plan on binge-studying to get the CCNA lightning fast.

Just something to consider.

schmidt paul

hi sory for interrupting your discusion iam just new to the group iam currntly doing my A+certification course

Chappy77

EV42TMAN wrote: »

I say do A+ then Net+
Net+ gives you all the theory without the headache of little details

When you're ready to start the CCNA do the 2 test method since you said you have no experience and save up for a home lab. Virtualizing Cisco labs in GNS3 works but, if you want to truly learn Cisco buy a home lab.
When it comes to study materials i recommend The vendors official study guide and the CBT nuggets series for certification. I use them for every certification i have.

thanks, my friend pointed me to the GNS3 since i told him i won't be able to get to a lab. I saw the kits for sale. def. something to consider. where can i get a good deal on a kit?

Chappy77

DoubleNNs wrote: »

Think someone else mentioned it but one plan you could think of is A+, then study for Net+ and *don't* take it. Instead, start studying for the CCNA. There's 2 tests and the 1st in the pair is a slightly more advanced version of the net+, which when you pass it grants you the CCENT cert. The only reason why i suggest this route instead of A+->Net+->CCNA is because going A+->CCNA will save you $250 and possibly anywhere from a week to a month of study time.

However, if the extra $250 doesn't bother you (didn't bother me because my Dad paid for my own Net+) going the Net+ route might probably be better. Feels so good to pass a cert test, and gives you confidence when attempting the subsequent exams. Net+ first would also build your resume faster - which would be great esp if you don't plan on binge-studying to get the CCNA lightning fast.

Just something to consider.

going to get material on Net+ probably tomorrow. Ill study it then make my decision on whether or not to take the exam and go straight into CCENT. good stuff. thanks I do like the idea of having the cert though. looks good on paper.

Roguetadhg

Chappy77, welcome to your new home!

Stay away from Ebay kits, as a good rule of thumb.

That's exactly why I have my CompTIA certs - It looks good on paper. It's one thing to say "I know I can pass the test" and then to flash your CompTIA card like a ninja... "I passed my test." If you got it, flaunt it. Ever since that day in OfficeMax, my A+ card is always in my wallet.

Chappy77

Roguetadhg wrote: »

Chappy77, welcome to your new home!

Stay away from Ebay kits, as a good rule of thumb.

That's exactly why I have my CompTIA certs - It looks good on paper. It's one thing to say "I know I can pass the test" and then to flash your CompTIA card like a ninja... "I passed my test." If you got it, flaunt it. Ever since that day in OfficeMax, my A+ card is always in my wallet.

where are you in SC? I'm in Florence. I grew up in this area then moved away after highschool with the military. Stayed in the DC area, had a kid and moved back. Wish I would've stayed in DC. Anyway, not sure if Florence is gonna be the place for me after I get certified. May try and move back up or atleast near a metro area. I like being around a big city.

DoubleNNs

Roguetadhg wrote: »

That's exactly why I have my CompTIA certs - It looks good on paper. It's one thing to say "I know I can pass the test" and then to flash your CompTIA card like a ninja... "I passed my test." If you got it, flaunt it. Ever since that day in OfficeMax, my A+ card is always in my wallet.

What day in OfficeMax? Wee you the one who had to show your card to prove that you weren't buying canned air to sniff them? lol

Aveni

CCENT1 and CCENT2 when you got time and Funds if possible

newff

This thread answered a lot of questions I also had as a newbie. Don't mean to hijack but for for the study material would we get that from CompTIA themselves or some other books? I think I'll start A+ now asap. Motivating thread.

coty24

newff wrote: »

This thread answered a lot of questions I also had as a newbie. Don't mean to hijack but for for the study material would we get that from CompTIA themselves or some other books? I think I'll start A+ now asap. Motivating thread.

I definitely agree with all that is said; personally, I done this track

A+ = Training time, 1 month, one chapter a day | Book: A+ AIO (All in One- Mike Meyers)
N+ = Training time, 1 1/2 months (I believe) same pacing | N+ AIO (Same author)
S+ = Training time, 2 months (1st book I ever read twice, lol) | Security +(Darrill Gibson)

All of those books mixed with Professor Messer will put you on the right track!

Don't braindump! (even if you think you already know it; your colleagues think you are crazy). It'll put you ahead in the long run.

Stay hungry!!

Worked as a Network Administrator for a while so I got the skills in CLI but never tested. (CCNA| But it's on my list!)

DoubleNNs

newff wrote: »

This thread answered a lot of questions I also had as a newbie. Don't mean to hijack but for for the study material would we get that from CompTIA themselves or some other books? I think I'll start A+ now asap. Motivating thread.

You get the books yourself. Order them on Amazon. The list in the post above me should be good for you. Also check out professermesser.com for free videos to supplement your reading. Good luck.

Kasor

First look locally and see what type of IT jobs that need, then go after the certification that help you to land an interview. However, I already recommend to go get a degree (AAS) will do. However, give a ring to your buddy at DC/NoVA. IT job had been tough to get because they are more IT guys (entry and general support) than specific field which take much longer time to reach to that level, or somebody born to be a IT guru. So, IT certification is not cheap and dedication to study after a long day of work. It's not easy. You shall to teach jujitsu bx more and more American want to maintain healthy.