Certification Goals

MrDrumboy21 · August 2014

Hello guys,
I'm new to this site and I just wanted some tips on how I should study for these certifications I want to obtain:
CCNA
CCNA security
CCNP routing
CCNP switching
CCNP troubleshooting
Network +
Server+
A+
MCSE
and some other certifications...

I am also wondering if the MCSE is still a valid certicate?

Anyways... My goal in life is to become a Computer Networking administrator who has lots of education, experience, and proof that I have what it takes to get the job done. Mind you, I don't have any of these certs at all, but I want all of them eventually. I took the CCENT twice and failed it, mostly because my studying prior to taking the exam wasn't well spent. But this time I wanna take it the third time and feel confident that I'll get the cert. I just wanna know how I could study and how I can pass the exams on the first or second try? I am more of a visual learner and can retain information better if things are read to me or are presented in a simple, understandable way in person or visually.
Any tips will help out.

Asif Dasl · August 2014

If you want to be a network engineer then you could drop A+, Net+, Server+, MCSE all out of the equation. How have you made the list that you have now? Is it looking at job postings in your area, cause that would be a great way to see what employers are looking for specifically.

Do you have a degree, or an IT job at the moment? (You don't mention either). If you learn visually then CBT Nuggets or INE.com would be great additions to reading a book on Cisco. There is a lot of memorization taking exams and flashcards can help you remember through repetition as well

MrDrumboy21 · August 2014

I don't have any degrees but I'm working on my associates for network support at the college I go to, and I work at OfficeMax (place really sucks) but I'm becoming the main tech guy at OfficeMax because I'm the only one that really knows what they're doing when working with computers it seems. I have been striving for some big jobs that require a little experience like Network Technician at Easter Seals, Help Desk Technician at Davidson companies, etc.

ajs1976 · August 2014

The jobs that you mentioned (Computer Network Administration, Network Technician, and Help Desk Technician) have overlap, but are heading down different paths.

If you are working toward Network Admin and having a hard time with CCENT, start with the Net+, then go to CCENT, and CCNA, then the CCNP

One that is missing from your list is Security+ and I think it is valuable for any role in IT, but would fit well in your list after Net+ and before CCNA:Sec. net+ --> CCENT/Sec+ --> CCNA:Sec

Helpdesk roles: A+, net+, CCENT, and missing from your list MCSA 7 or 8 exams.

for more of a server / system admin role Net+, MCSA 2008 / 2012, Server+. Although the knowledge covered in the Server+ is useful not sure how much value you get from the extra effort to pass the exam or the cost of paying for it.

Pupil · August 2014

If you want to be a network administrator, then pass the INCD1 and obtain your CCENT and start looking for a junior position. While you're job hunting, study for the ICND2 and pass it so you get your CCNA. After that get a few years of real experience, find out which tack you wish to specialize in (ie. Security, Voice, Routing/Switching) and have your employer pay for the exams.

Certification Goals

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