CCNA Online Certification?

[wizdum]

Hey everybody,

So my local state university doesn't offer exclusively a CCNA(or any other Cisco certification) program. They only have a complete "computers and networking systems" program which lasts for 4.5 semesters, and costs about $10K in total. I don't mind the Ten G's considering the cost of university schooling these days. However, I don't need to learn computer software and hardware basics, which is pretty much a whole year of the program. So, I decided to look online for CCNA certification programs and came across a company called NIL(www.nil.com/english) who offers online learning classes and labs for Cisco certifications ranging from CCENT(Cisco Entry Level) to CCIE(Expert) and tons of stuff in between. They are recognized by Cisco and seem pretty legit. The cost of the programs is WAY CHEAPER(about $650 total) than anything I could do locally. So to get to the point I was wondering if anyone on these forums has had experience with online learning or CCNA certifications in general, and could point me in the right direction. I really don't feel like dropping $650 on something that won't help me in passing the CCNA exam. Thank you for all your help and advice. -Jordan

 

[Jamsan]

While I can't speak directly to how nil is, I have used other computer based training products such as CBTNuggets, and have had pretty good success with them. The CCNA video from CBTNuggets costs about $200-300 (can't remember exactly), and is filled with good info, hands-on labs, and most importantly, keeps your interest throughout the videos. There's also videos by Train Signal, which are OK as well, but lack the attention keeping content.

Using either of these videos, and reading the ICND 1 and 2, or Todd Lammle CCNA Sybex book, you should be in pretty good shape for the exam. You could rent rack time online to get your hands-on experience, or you could purchase a lab (a CCNA lab setup should be cheap). You could also use simulators like Boson or Packet Tracer (PT is made by Cisco for the CCNA exam), or use an emulator such as Dynampis/GNS3 that emulates actualy Cisco Router IOS's, so it has much more functionality available than simulators. However, GNS is currently only available for routers, so getting switch practice will be a bit tougher (you can add a 16 port module, but it doesn't have all the switch features required).

 

[wizdum]

WOW thank you that really helps a lot. I have also heard, when it comes to hands on experience, that you can pick up some routers/switches from eBay if you need to without spending too much money. I haven't heard of videos before so I will definitely be checking them out. Thank you! Anyone else?

 

[drebo]

Yes, you can pick up some routers for cheap from eBay. Not all, but some.

As far as CCNA goes, it's a pretty easy test. I had some practical knowledge, a good grasp of subnetting, and a good grasp of the OSI model, and didn't bother with any classes. I used the Exam Cram 2 CCNA test prep book to familiarize myself with the test format and question types, as well as the specific terminology Cisco will use, but other than that, the CCNA isn't so much a Cisco proprietary exam as it is a test of basic networking fundamentals.

Yes, there are a few router configuration scenarios, but GNS3 will be plenty sufficient for familiarizing yourself with IOS enough to get through those. For CCNA, though, as long as you have a grasp of subnetting, the OSI model, and a little working knowledge of Cisco equipment (GNS3 here), you should be fine.

If no have no networking experience at all and are starting fresh, a class might be good for you.

 

[mcmilljb]

It's great that you're interested in learning more about computer networks. I don't know what your background is in computer networks, but you should start by assessing what you know and what you're interested in doing. You can do that looking at the CCNA objectives.

Since you're pretty fresh, I would consider going the 2 exam route. You can focus on less material concurrently while spending more time building a strong base. Start by reading about the OSI Model and the TCP/IP Suite from a vendor neutral book. Then you can see how Cisco implements the models and protocols you just read about. Then start adding onto the basics as you progress through the objectives.

If you go to a class, ask them questions about how they teach. If they just feed you slides and give you a physical lab, it's probably not worth your money. You can probably build a nice lab and enough good books with the money you would have wasted on the class(and you get to keep both!). Find a class where the lecturer does real examples in real-time infront of the class.

 

[Tarrant64]

Just out of curiosity, is there any company that sells CCNA equipment kits? For studying/practicing for the CCNA exam? I came across one a few months ago and I think it was a sub$300 package (not the greatest, but it got the job done).

Thanks

 

[jlazzaro]

Originally posted by: Tarrant64
Just out of curiosity, is there any company that sells CCNA equipment kits? For studying/practicing for the CCNA exam? I came across one a few months ago and I think it was a sub$300 package (not the greatest, but it got the job done).

Thanks

yes, but most of the prices are jacked up...just find what you need on ebay and piece it together.