Fastest way to learn PC Repair/Basic Networking?

[eno]

Basically I need to be able to completely understand all areas of the repair side and a strong knowledge of Networks. I have been working with computers for the last 4 years. Mainly building them for the last 2.5years. I know mainly the basics. I excel only in the hobbiest areas like tweaking and basic trouble shooting and upgrading.

There is a new repair position that will be available to me soon(1month). I am planning on taking it up a step and studying my butt off. I truly need to learn Basic Networks and entire A+ content inside out(over my basic knowledge). I know there is TONS of content to cover and what is the best way in your opinion to cram but at the same time learn the content so I can actually fix computers without having to need a more experienced repair tech around.

I have already been reading my A+ Cert : All in One book by Mike Meyers(4th edition) for the last bit and wondering if I should just stay to this book or is there very good online courses? Should I go to a local Community/Tech College? I really do not have the time to take the college courses because it is too late, I need to be able to teach myself or take some VERY good online courses.

Sorry for such a odd question , and many thanks to anyone that takes my plea serious.

 

[eno]

Any quick serious ideas?

 

[Elbryn]

Read the A+ book like planned, then ask to volunteer with the repair guys in your free time. With only one month, you can easily pass the test. Any class you take that fits into your time frame would be a cram session anyway to get you to pass the test. knowing whats in an A+ book is not going to be as valuable as a repair tech as solid troubleshooting skills.

 

[Chadder007]

Seeing that you have worked on PC's here and there for a few years already now.....taking an A+ class that is say... a week long at some technical college with learn you nothing. I had done the same thing basically here at work for 2 years, then they sent me off to a college for a week to take an A+ course and I didn't really learn anything I didn't already know. Its mainly all in the book. You need to go over terms and settings and ways to jumper/wire/install things from the A+ book.

 

[Cal166]

Reading books would help a bit but the best way to learn is in real life situations.

I learn most of my stuff from coming across problems with my PC.

 

[kami333]

Tell all your friends and family that you are willing to repair/upgrade their computers for free

Seriously though, you probably just need to learn the terms and small details, sounds like you have a solid foundation.

 

[rky60]

I passed A+ a few months ago. I'd suggest just readin' the book you have and if possible use another one like the Sybex A+ Complete.

Also checkout Tcat Housers free study guides, email TCat and it'll auto-repsond with links to his .pdf guides

 

[MDE]

Break your PC and then fix it. Rinse and repeat. That's how I learned.

 

[pulse8]

Originally posted by: MDE
Break your PC and then fix it. Rinse and repeat. That's how I learned.

 

[eno]

Thanks for the suggestions. I already repair peoples computers and I do have a solid foundation in trouble shooting. What I really need to focus on is sharping my skills in like the Networking and more Advanced areas of A+, mainly I believe the position will require me to configure and set up peoples home networks and fix any issues with there wireless networks. Also I will need a strong back round in registry and Win9x/2000 to configure and troubleshoot. I need to turn it up a notch on my skillz from the basic average computer repair to a "Geek" level of smartness in the areas.

 

[fredtam]

Originally posted by: eno
Any quick serious ideas?

Seriously, I would trim your sig down to a link to a my rig page.

 

[eno]

How's that princess? Been wondering if anyone would comment on that.

 

[nick1985]

browse anandtech forums.

 

[jjyiz28]

Originally posted by: eno
Thanks for the suggestions. I already repair peoples computers and I do have a solid foundation in trouble shooting. What I really need to focus on is sharping my skills in like the Networking and more Advanced areas of A+, mainly I believe the position will require me to configure and set up peoples home networks and fix any issues with there wireless networks. Also I will need a strong back round in registry and Win9x/2000 to configure and troubleshoot. I need to turn it up a notch on my skillz from the basic average computer repair to a "Geek" level of smartness in the areas.

excellent book, i have

 

[eno]

jjyiz28 is that book geared towards people that already know the basics of networks? I really am lame with the networks, I have one setup here with 2 comps through a Linksys router on XP pro but I know little of the settings under the router and or if the internet goes down where to look on the router. Off the top of my head I dont even understand all the IP's,DNS,Protocalls. Do you think that book would be a good book to start into the networks up into the advanced or only after I know some that I should venture there? What do you think?

I just ordered this book.


Update :




Upgrading and Repairing Networks, Fourth Edition
Ordered

 

[jjyiz28]

Originally posted by: eno
jjyiz28 is that book geared towards people that already know the basics of networks? I really am lame with the networks, I have one setup here with 2 comps through a Linksys router on XP pro but I know little of the settings under the router and or if the internet goes down where to look on the router. Off the top of my head I dont even understand all the IP's,DNS,Protocalls. Do you think that book would be a good book to start into the networks up into the advanced or only after I know some that I should venture there? What do you think?

I just ordered this book.


Update :




Upgrading and Repairing Networks, Fourth Edition
Ordered

that all in one is a good book as well, i have also. i recommend upgrading and repairing pc's, as well to complement that book. goes far beyond the A+ exam.
go to bookpool.com, and order your tech books there, faster, and cheaper, good ratings.

i'd say its for all types of people. it gets to advanced topics, but does it in a friendly to understand way. it could get a little dry at times, but the info in it is worth it.

i knew nothing about networks, but with this book, im fairly confident inmyself. have 4 pcs networked together sharing dsl with router/firewall.

if you need to know microsoft network stuff, i recommend mastering 2000 server 4th ed by minasi as well.


edit: this book is pretty thick. way more of a read than the A+ book you read. just a slight warning.

 

[Kadarin]

You might try one of those "Teach Yourself Network Troubleshooting in 24hrs" books.. Some of them are quite good when considered in the context of being introductory to the subject. I would also suggest a book on tcp/ip. Realistically, you're probably a lot closer to that A+ level than you think you are. My suggestion is to think beyond that. Look for specific areas that interest you (networking, Windows server admin, linux, databases, whatever) and have fun. Check your local library for books, too. You may not always find the most cutting edge info, but you will very likely find something quite relevant.

Good luck and have fun....

 

[slycat]

a friend.

 

[eno]

Thanks to all that helped aid me in my situation. Take care fellas and good luck to ya.

 

[Kelemvor]

Order those CDs from that bald guy on TV. I'm sure they will teach you everythign you need to know.