No textbooks for CCNP-Wireless?
So there are no Cisco books for the CCNP-Wireless track? I only see the quick reference guides, which are good but far from comprehensive. I think this is the only track I've ever seen that doesn't have textbooks to study for it. For someone who is wanting to study wireless without having any hands-on experience, a no-textbook track certainly gives one pause. The QRGs have good info, but they don't ease you into the material; they just tend to drop the house on you all at once and without the witty charm of the Cisco authors. IMHO, not the best way to learn for someone just starting out (after the CCNA-Wireless, of course).
Wouldn't it be a better idea before Cisco introduces a new track to already have the textbooks ready and waiting for those wanting to pursue it? It's not like they don't have the resources. The way it is, they play the just-be-patient-they-ll-be-out-soon game. I'm not a product manager, but if I were put in charge I'd sure structure it to be ready to go out of the gate. And I think this way would sell more books, as well as generate more interest in the track, having the materials ready to purchase from Cisco Press.
Okay - a little steam vented.
Wouldn't it be a better idea before Cisco introduces a new track to already have the textbooks ready and waiting for those wanting to pursue it? It's not like they don't have the resources. The way it is, they play the just-be-patient-they-ll-be-out-soon game. I'm not a product manager, but if I were put in charge I'd sure structure it to be ready to go out of the gate. And I think this way would sell more books, as well as generate more interest in the track, having the materials ready to purchase from Cisco Press.
Okay - a little steam vented.
Comments
It is very helpful to be working for a Cisco wireless partner, as you will need access to MSE, WCS (now outdated), and Cisco ACS. By being a Cisco wireless partner you can download MSE and WCS on NFR for lab use. I have passed 2 x of the 4 CCNP Wireless courses, and I don't see anyone realistically passing without access to these products or hands-on experience deploying them. I have both, and it greatly helped me along with the Cisco Press Quick Reference guides by Jerome Henry.
CUCM SRND 9x/10, UCCX SRND 10x, QOS SRND, SIP Trunking Guide, anything contact center related
Unfortunately, moving out-of-town isn't an option for me, as my family and I are settled here, so I need to find a track that has possibilities for my future. Between the recruiters listing desirable skills and the advertised jobs, it seems that security is in the most demand in my area above both voice and wireless. I wonder if companies have more dedicated security people than they have for wireless?
Honestly, if I could wake up tomorrow and have any cert, I would pick that one. Cisco is pretty big in wireless, and they are <100 CCIE:W worldwide. Wireless has exploded in the last few years, but the certifications are much harder to study for than the typical r/s stuff where some official books and GNS3 is all you need most of the time. Maybe I'm wrong, but it seems crazy to me that more people aren't going for these certs.
I agree with this. You'd be better off using wireless as an add on to R&S rather than making it your main focus. There just isn't that much demand for wireless only and most people who cover wireless are already the LAN admins as well.
I've not heard of a wireless ISP. How are they different from a regular ISP? Who would be an example of this?
CCNP Wireless Training, Study Guides, Labs, Study Groups, And Discussion
Gregory