All Things Cisco Training

Covering essentials you need in order to pass the CCNA exams

[networkanalytics]

Things to Know About CCNA / ICND Exams

1. CCNA ICND is comprehensive

The Cisco CCNA ICND exams cover a large variety of topics from basic TCP/IP knowledge to routing protocols and spanning trees. In other words, it’s a tough exam because it covers so much. It is important that you do well on the ICND because most of it serves as the basis for all other Cisco CCNA track exams, and so it is important that you respect the breadth of information that this test covers.

2. CCNA ICND is practical

The ICND exam is not the kind of test where only “book smarts” will come into play. Simply put, you need to be able to use the information you learn and apply it to a real-world network troubleshooting issue. For example: knowing that IP is an unreliable service is one thing – solving a communications error between two nodes over IP is quite another.

3. ICND is short

Think you can handle 45-60 questions in 75-90 minutes? You better be able to in order to excel on the ICND test, which tests candidates rapidly in their knowledge on all things Cisco networking. Pacing and speed are both major issues in the test as is appropriate test preparation. At the same time, the CCNA ICND exam covers many real-world situations, which are may be complex to understand without adequate time.

4. ICND is marketable

Passing the Cisco CCNA ICND exam doesn’t just open up the CCNA path to candidates. It also allows you to market yourself as a true networking expert with more knowledge and skill than your non-certified peers, allowing you to really stretch out your skills and your opportunities.

[networkanalytics]

CCENT and CCNA – The Difference

This article will compare and contrast the differences between the CCENT and CCNA certifications with the goal to shed light on the different topics covered by each certification and the value of each certification.

What’s the Difference?

The CCENT certification is an entry-level certification designed to give one the foundational knowledge to start a career in networking or provide one the required networking skills to understand how networking affects applications or operating systems.

The CCENT exam is the first step towards obtaining the CCNA certification.

The CCENT certification consists of one exam, the Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1) exam. The exam duration is 90 minutes and ranges between 50 to 60 questions. Candidates can prepare for this exam by taking the Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICDN1v2) course.

The topics covered on the ICND1 exam include:

• Operation of IP Data Networks • LAN Switching Technologies • IP addressing (IPv4/IPv6) • IP Routing Technologies • IP Services • Network Device Security • Troubleshooting

The CCNA certification can be achieved by either taking one composite exam CCNA or by taking two exams ICND1 and ICND2.

The Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICDN2) exam duration is 90 minutes test with 50–60 questions. Candidates can prepare for this exam by taking the Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2v2) course.

The topics covered on the ICND2 exam include:

• LAN Switching Technologies • IP Routing Technologies • IP Services • Troubleshooting • WAN Technologies

Candidates can prepare for the composite exam by taking ICND1v2 and ICND2v2 courses. The CCNA composite exam consists of 50-60 questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. 

Which Path?

Ultimately, the path taken is up to the test taker and their end goal. The CCENT is a great way to take stepped approach to the CCNA certification. The CCNA certification is an associate certification and provides a broader and deeper knowledge of networking.

If you want to achieve the CCNA exam, is it better to take ICND1 and ICND2 or the composite exam? There is no correct answer to this and once again is up to the individual. The composite exam requires you to know all the topics on both the ICND1 and ICND2 exams. As such, you have to study more topics at once for the composite exam than if studying individually for ICND1 and ICND2 exams.

In summary, the CCENT and CCNA certifications are both excellent certifications for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of networking. The CCENT certification provides an entry-level networking foundation and also provides a stepping-stone to the CCNA certification. The path taken is up to each individual’s goals and comfort level with taking exams.

[networkanalytics]

Why CCNA Salaries are Attractive?

For a moment imagine a world without internet and computers. Imagine no social networks and cell phones. It would be a nineteen century world. Technologies have influenced a lot of the way we live and communicate and in the process created new jobs. The new jobs require years of preparation and hard work to master the technologies involved. Employers demand proof before hiring. That proof can only be provided by certifications from reliable institutions.  

How do you choose the right certification? It is question that all would-be professionals must answer. First, what field do you want to go into? Second, what certifications in that field are opening doors?

If your answer to first question is communications then a quick look at ‘wanted ads’ will quickly convince  you that CCNA is the route to follow.

CCNA is abbreviation for Cisco Certified Network Associate. This is a special type of certification for people who are   interested in networking and who want to succeed in dealing with routers and switches. Cisco Systems conducts rigorous examinations awards certification to qualified persons.  Among the certifications they award is CCNA.

If you have a desire to get this certificate you need to be well prepared for this important examination. Visit www.learncisco.net  to get all information you need about CCNA.

CCNA professionals are well regarded in the networking field. Their average salary ranges from USD 53,195 to USD 118,830 – depending on their experience, location and job title. (Information source – payscale.com)

[burneyscache]

[networkanalytics]

CCENT or CCNA. Which exam should you take?

First, let’s start with the CCENT certification. This certification is geared toward an entry-level network technician. This certification proves you have foundational knowledge for a small- to medium-sized network. Passing this exam is the first step to enter into a network engineering job using Cisco routers and switches. The course that you should take for the CCENT exam is ICND1v2.0. This is an updated course and exam due this spring. The new exam number is 100-101. Once you have passed this exam, you become a CCENT.

CCNA If you have taken the ICND1 course and exam, strongly consider taking the ICND2 course and exam 200-101 as well. By taking this second exam and passing it, you will achieve the CCNA certification. The CCNA credentials show your abilities to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

A Combination You do have another option for exams. If you are a very skilled individual who has in-depth knowledge and experience configuring routers and switches in a medium- to large-sized network, then the combination exam might be for you. Cisco has an exam that covers knowledge from both ICND1 and ICND2: exam 200-120.

[networkanalytics]

About CCENT

The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) is an entry-level Cisco certification. Credential holders possess the skills required to support small enterprise networks including installation, operation, and network security.

• Prerequisite Certification: None • Recommended Years of Experience/Knowledge: 2 years

Typical Job Titles for Certification Holders

Data Network Engineer • Information Technology Specialist • Network Engineer • Network Specialist • Support Technician • System Administrator • System Analyst

Typical Job Tasks

CCENT professionals perform basic functions in networking, wide area network (WAN) technologies, security and wireless, routing and switching, installing, operating and configuring simple networks.

Salary Range

$29,680-$74,961 per PayScale.com

Next Logical Certification

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

[networkanalytics]

The Cisco CCNA Security Certification

The Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security) is an associate or foundation-level Cisco certification. Credential holders possess skills necessary to protect network security, including developing a security infrastructure, recognizing and mitigating security threats, and ensuring availability of network data and devices.

1. What industry trends motivated Cisco to create the CCNA Security certification?

Cisco created the CCNA Security certification to offer new IT professionals a rapid path to specialization in security as well as to offer experienced networking professionals a path to enhancing their careers with new security knowledge and skills. Security skills are one of the highest-demand areas in the networking job market.

IT organizations need staff with the specialized knowledge and skills to administer devices and applications in a security infrastructure, recognize network vulnerabilities and detect security threats.

2. What do employers say about their needs for this type of knowledge and skill?

More than any other area, security and risk management skillls  are some of the most highly sought after skills across the network, and demand is continuing to grow. According to Cisco, within five years, dedicated security roles are expected to exist in 80% of the companies studied versus today’s dedicated security role, which exists in only 46% of the companies surveyed.

3. Where will the CCNA Security certification be the most relevant?

With the CCNA Security, you’ll be ready for specialized jobs such as network security specialist, security administrator, and security support engineer. Through the CCNA Security training, you will gain an overview of security challenges and solutions and be able to install, monitor and troubleshoot Cisco security solutions to secure a small branch office network. Cisco IOS security features on Cisco routers and switches are deployed using both graphical user interface tools (GUIs such as the Cisco Security Device Manager or SDM) and command line interfaces (CLIs). You will also understand the necessity of a comprehensive security policy and how it affects the posture of the network.

4. What are the details about the CCNA Security exam? 

Only one exam is required for the CCNA Security certification: Cisco 640-554 IINS Cisco 640-554 IINS. The Implementing Cisco IOS Network Security (IINS) exam is associated with the CCNA Security certification. This exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of securing Cisco routers and switches and their associated networks.

It also leads to validated skills for installation, troubleshooting and monitoring of network devices to maintain integrity, confidentiality and availability of data and devices and develops competency in the technologies that Cisco uses in its security infrastructure.

Prerequisites: CCENT, CCNA Routing and Switching, or CCIE/CCDE Certification.

For more information please visit this site.

[ciscohardware]

Cisco router security pyramid…

[akunaoru-blog]

[sifallah]

Security needs more time

[networkanalytics]

Security

[networkanalytics]

CISCO ENTRY LEVEL COURSES

The first step in achieving an Associate-level certification generally begins with earning a CCENT certification.

What is CCENT?

CCENT(Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) is an entry-level IT networking certification developed by Cisco Systems. Candidates who attain the CCENT certificate are half way to achieving the CCNA certification. A CCENT certification can help you get your first networking job or get help with your career progression if you currently work in Information Technology (IT). Cisco launched the CCENT to help make gaining a networking certification easier.  Before the CCENT existed the CCNA was Cisco’s entry level qualification. As a networking student, you now have two routes to gaining the popular CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification.  You can either take one exam or take two exams (ICND1 and ICND2).  When you pass the ICND1 you get the CCENT certification, then when you pass the second exam (ICND2) you will be CCNA certified.

Why become CCENT certified?

a)      Do you have an interest in computer networking? b)      Do you want to work in the networking field? c)       Do you want to get CCNA certified? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, then you should consider studying to become CCENT certified.

What will you learn?

a)      You’ll develop a basic understanding of computer networking b)      You’ll learn how to configure and troubleshoot Cisco devices How do you become a CCENT? How you prepare for CCENT depends largely on your current knowledge and experience of networking. CCENT Exam Facts a)      The CCENT (ICND1) exam varies between 40-50 questions b)      The ICND1 exam lasts 90 minutes c)       The ICND1 exam pass mark is about 85% d)      Questions can be multiple-choice single answer or router simulations or fill-in the blanks Once you have answered a question and moved on you cannot go back and change your answer You will know whether you have passed or failed at the end of the exam, your results will be sent to Cisco and you will receive a certificate in the post. The CCENT certification is valid for three years, to recertify you’ll need to pass the current ICND1 exam or the ICND2 exam, CCNA exam, CCNA wireless, CCNA voice or CCNA security certification

Find out more about each of the associate-level certification programs and how you can achieve certification.

ICND1 100-101

ICND2 200-101

CCNAX 200-120

CCNA Voice 640-461

CUCM Basics

[networkanalytics]

Importance of Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification

If you are an IT pro or network engineer, you might be missing out on a great way to enhance your career profile. The IT job market is getting more crowded every day. One of the best ways to set yourself apart in the crowded IT job market is with CCNA  Certification. In this article, we will explain the many benefits of being CCNA certified for any IT professional.

Do I Really Need CCNA Certification?

Let’s say you are applying for a job at a new tech firm. You might have incredible IT skills, but how do you show this in a job application or interview? The people that do the hiring need to make decisions based on limited information. If they see official CCNA certification, they can be assured that you have achieved a certain level of competence. Otherwise, they have to take a chance. Plus, if there are two candidates for a job that have pretty much the same amount of experience, the one who has certification will most likely get the job.

What If I Already Have A Job?

Now if you are already employed, you probably have the desire to move up to a higher-paying position. The higher-level jobs are low in supply and high in demand. The same principle applies here. You are competing against others, and the deciding factor might be whether or not you have CCNA certification.

Don’t Forget That Hr Makes The Call.

In many cases, whether it is hiring or promotion, the decision is made by human resources. Now while they may have a IT background, they make their decisions in a way that takes into account many different factors. One of these is formal credentials, such as the CCNA. Whether or not they have IT experience, a CCNA Certification is easy for them to appreciate.

Are There Other Benefits?

The CCNA makes you a solid, well-rounded network engineer. Completing the certification process not only gives you a certificate, it trains you in multiple levels and areas regarding the ability to work with routed and switched networks.

What Else Is There To Know About Ccna Certification?

The CCNA Routing and Switching is a program developed for network engineers that fully develops and evaluates your networking knowledge and helps you add value to any organization’s network.

To obtain certification you have two options. These are:

• Pass the single 200-120 CCNA exam (90 minutes, 50 – 60 questions) • Pass two separate exams: the 100-101 ICND1 (90 minutes, 40 -50 questions) and the 200-101 ICND2 (75 minutes, 50 – 60 questions)

Conclusion

There are numerous advantages to getting CCNA certified. You not only make yourself a better job or promotion candidate, but you also enrich and broaden your skills as a network engineer.

You can read further here.

[networkanalytics]

Motivate yourself to study for CCENT

Step one: Think carefully about the reasons why you want to study CCENT

One of the problems I repeatedly see with students is that when I ask them why they are studying CCENT, they cannot really list many reasons. They frequently just say, “To get a better job,”  so once the going gets a bit rough, they say to themselves, “You know what, I am fine where I am—this is just not worth it!”

Think carefully about the reasons why you want to study CCENT.  Knowing exactly why you are going to put yourself through this effort up front can make a massive difference.

Here is a sample list you might have after some intense contemplation:

• To earn more money through a promotion at my company • To expand my knowledge of networking beyond my current role and the new role I am going to apply for • To be able to discuss networking issues more proficiently with my peers • To enable me to start other Cisco certification tracks that I am interested in • To improve my hands-on skills with key networking devices • To gain confidence in my abilities in networking • To achieve the benefits of Cisco certification within Cisco • To validate my skill set with my peers • To get back into studying new technologies

Notice that creating a list like this will make it much tougher to give up on when you find adversity in the pursuit.

Step two: Get a study buddy

Being around other people that are on a similar journey to you can be very beneficial. It is wonderful to be able to bounce ideas off one another and have that unwavering support to get you through any challenging times.

It is also important to remember that inspiration is everywhere we look. In films, in theatre, in literature… it does not take much to go out and seek inspiration for ourselves. By keeping ourselves inspired, we are stay focused on track to succeed and path out our chosen careers.

Step three: Get started

It is time to get started. Celebrate that start, and go for it!

Learn more about CCENT at www.learncisco.net.

[networkanalytics]

Why I did CCENT

Lots of people ask me why I did CCENT. Well, my reasons are:

I find lots of posts asking why somebody should consider CCENT hence I decided to put in writing why I did it. The CCENT demonstrates my networking knowledge in a tangible way. Getting CCENT certification shows that I know something about networking.

Earning the CCENT required passing only one test. Earning CCENT boosted my confidence and I am now ready for the longer certification paths such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification. CCENT certification proved my knowledge to my boss. We would all like to think that everyone respects us just because we are smart, but having a piece of paper on the wall couldn’t hurt, could it? It reminds your boss and coworkers of your expertise every time they come into your office. Plus, it DID NOT hurt come time for my compensation review.

The CCENT is a stepping stone for the CCNA. Passing the single CCNA test can be very difficult – it’s much easier to take two smaller tests that you can more easily prepare for. By passing the CCENT test, you’re halfway on the road to earning your CCNA.

Kindly go to this site to learn more.

[networkanalytics]

Cisco Certification: 3 Tips For Success

Earning a Cisco certification can boost your IT career, but requires careful planning and training. Here are three tips to help guide your certification strategy.

Whether you are looking to advance your career, get your foot in the door, or considering a career change, earning a Cisco certification can be valuable. In this post, I will provide three tips designed to maximize the level of success in your Cisco career. These tips are not  rules, but   guidelines for mapping out your Cisco certification strategy.

1. Set Goals

This is an essential step to becoming a Cisco professional. Many times, procrastination is what holds back an otherwise perfectly capable individual. As Cisco specializations are large in number, it is best that you map out what you would like to accomplish for the year and try to stick to that plan as much as possible.

For instance, an acceptable goal for a beginner would be to achieve the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification. Not only would this provide you with the proper insight into the Cisco world, but also it can open the doors to other areas of potential interest.

2. Studying

Oftentimes, a student will not do well because he or she did not use the proper study material. The large number of books available can be overwhelming to those just starting out, but keep in mind your study is not limited to books alone. I would recommend visiting this site for maximum success. It is an excellent site for revision as it has good content for is very relevant to CCENT and CCNA exams, a practice lab and practice tests.

3. Practice

They say practice makes perfect and it's no different for a Cisco engineer. On average, I have found that a mix of 40% reading and 60% of your time practicing lab scenarios to be a good combination to prepare for Cisco certifications. Get familiar with commands.

For the CCNA, use the Packet Tracer network simulation program if you don’t have access to real devices. This will give you a feel for Cisco devices, without ever having to actually use one. It must be noted, though, that no amount of simulation will prepare you for a real life device (I base this advice on personal experience).

[networkanalytics]

CCENT Study Tips

I have some study tips that have helped me study for CCENT:

• Make sure to attend the appropriate course or purchase the official Cisco press books  or use a comprehensive online site such as this one for the exam. • Review your study material at least three times. Then use practice questions to see how I am doing with the material. • For these exams, you have to know subnetting. So when I was just learning how to subnet, I made sure every day I ran through a subnetting problem, just to keep it fresh in my mind. • Do not wait longer than one month from finishing the class until taking the exam. We start to lose some of the information that is fresh in our minds. • Get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam. A good solid breakfast or lunch before the exam is a good idea as well. • Stop studying the day before. If you do not know, it by then, you might want to think about rescheduling the exam. You only have 24 hours before your scheduled time to make any changes. However, make sure you double-check the cancelation policy. • Make sure to know exactly how long it will take to reach the exam center, and arrive 15 minutes early. Sometimes if no one is in the seat you are scheduled for, the test center might let you get started a little early if it is available. • Be prepared to store your accessories or valuables. You will be required to lock your valuables in a locker. You are not allowed to take purses, cell phones, etc. into the room where the exam is administered. You might also be asked to leave your watch in a locked locker. • When you get into the testing room, you will be given something to write with either a dry erase type board or paper. You will have to return these materials when you are done with the exam

[networkanalytics]

About CCENT

The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) is an entry-level Cisco certification. Credential holders possess the skills required to support small enterprise networks including installation, operation, and network security.

• Prerequisite Certification: None • Recommended Years of Experience/Knowledge: 2 years

Typical Job Titles for Certification Holders

Data Network Engineer • Information Technology Specialist • Network Engineer • Network Specialist • Support Technician • System Administrator • System Analyst

Typical Job Tasks

CCENT professionals perform basic functions in networking, wide area network (WAN) technologies, security and wireless, routing and switching, installing, operating and configuring simple networks.

Salary Range

$29,680-$74,961 per PayScale.com

Next Logical Certification

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)