CNE was not that bad after only one year exp. on Netware 6 servers.  Zenworks4 and CNA tests were by far the hardest test.  The only materials required for me was the Novell self study books that my company bought.  All together spent less than 4 months to take all test including the network plus test required to take the CNA.  That test was a not hard because I already had CCNA cert. I took the Zenworks test first only because I was installing Zenworks at 8 of out offices and working very closly with it at the time. I recommend major console time for the exam, and installing it at least on a few servers before taking the test.  I say the CNA test was hard too because of the wide spectrum of materials needed to pass it.  I recommend getting self test software for that one.  

BC,
CNE CCNA

Congratulations on earning your CNE.

Iolair MacWalter