Trying it again

[ts8586]

Hello, folks. OK, I've procrastinated (I hope that's spelled correctly!) long enough. I started studying for my CCNA about a year ago. Then I took a break. Decided to get my MCP (which I did), and now I'm ready to go back to my CCNA quest.

I have the the 2 training books from Cisco Press (Intro and ICND) that I purchased brand new exactly one year ago. I know hands on experience is equally, if not more important than the books, but am I still going in the right direction if I start with those 2 books? I can't imagine them being totally outdated.

 

[ngazzano]

I used books and I still failed my first time. I just bought a 2501 and a 2900 to practise on. The test is hard, even if you know the books cover to cover. Be sure your studying the right material too. I noticed that very little of the info that I studied was on the exam. I'm gonna try again next month.

 

[jabw]

I've done the exam just about a month ago, and failed. To prepare myself I used the two books from CiscoPress plus the update from the CiscoPress website.

The new tests that came with the update are a lot tougher than the original tests.

Also at the actual exam there where questions not fully covered by the CiscoPress books.

Now I'm using also the CCNA Study guide from McGrawHill and it looks to me that the coverage is better that the CiscoPress books.
I don't do much any more with handson. Just focussing on making exam questions.

 

[ts8586]

Thank you for the input. Good luck to both of you on your retakes.

 

[CiscoGuy33]

ts8586,

I always use at least 2 different books when I study for a Cisco exam.

For the CCNA I used Cisco Press and Sybex - CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide, 5th Edition(640-801) by Todd Lammle Sybex, Paperback, 5th Bk&CD edition, Published January 2005, 675 pages, ISBN 0782143911.

Great prices for books at -

http://www.bookpool.com/

I find Cisco Press is GREAT for EVERYTHING that you need to know to be a network person, as I said to get the job and know it well read Cisco Press, to get ready for the exam ...

I find the Sybex book is GREAT for just what you need to know to pass the CCNA exam.

I also used several 2501 routers, a CAT 1924 Switch and a Cisco Fast400 hub I got on Ebay as well as the Cisco Press Sim (By Boson).

I also used the CCNA CBT Nuggets, they have got alot of try before you buy at -

http://www.cbtnuggets.com/

These are very complete videos on the subject.

Of course if you have the time or little to no background in networking then the Cisco Network Academy system is great for the instruction, hands-on with Cisco equipment and working with a group with the same goal.

I hope this helps.


E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +

 

[ts8586]

It sure does help. Thank you very much.