Showing posts with label icnd2. Show all posts
Showing posts with label icnd2. Show all posts

6/27/2012

CCNA Router and Switch eSIM Review

CCNA Router and Switch eSIM
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Having trouble passing the CCNA exam? Need to find equipment but can't afford the costs? Want to have several different routers to work with? Think you'll need a new lab? Well Cisco Press may have taken the trouble to help you out more than you know.
With the software there was absolutely no trouble installing and I installed it on Windows 98, NT, 2000 and XP, each worked flawlessly. After the install you need the cd to run which should be changed in future releases.
Once installed you are ready to begin, although you do need to give the host of the console an IP address first and this too needs to be corrected. Seems to work far better that other routers eSIM since is isn't database driven but Flash driven. Giving you every possible help, the commands that are useful are bolded, aiding in the learning process.
There are 3 scenarios, scenario 1 is 5 router and 10 hosts. Although switches are included you can not configure them which I think would be very useful. In scenario 2 you work with switches and VLANS and 2 is intra-Vlan routing. You have several labs for each scenario and you can always make up your own.
The second cd included has over 100 activities and not all relate to CCNA but you'll find them useful for other things related to networking. There is also over 200 flash cards to study from and about the only problem I found is that you have to enter the full command rather than the shorter version.
There is some cleanup needed but you should be able to pass the exam with this one. Now tailor the ICND and CCNA courseware to this eSim and you have a sure fire winner.

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Authorized router and switch self-study simulation software for CCNA exam preparation

Beyond the eSIM network simulator, CCNA Router and Switch eSIM also includes the following self-study learning tools:
Lab activitiesEnter router commands, drag and drop objects, and answer questions on topics ranging from IP address classes to basic router configuration to extended ACLs. They are designed to make sure you have a full understanding of router command syntax.
200 CCNA Flashcard questionsChoose from among the CCNA skill areas, set the amount of time and the number of questions, choose whether questions are ordered or random, and build your own practice CCNA exam.
Video lessonsExpert instructors guide you through processes, such as subnetting Class C IP addresses; complex topics, such as dedicated and switched WAN technologies; and the various components of selected Cisco devices. This expert guidance delivers specific topics in an easy-to-comprehend format.
PhotoZoomsZoom in for close-up views of high-quality photographs of networking equipment and other products such as cables and diagnostic equipment. You can choose from various views, get detailed information on selected product parts, and zoom in for close-up views to familiarize you with these critical network environment devices.

CCNA Router and Switch eSIM improves upon the traditional interactive multimedia learning experience for networkers who are preparing for the CCNA exam, are new to the networking field, or are practitioners who want to perfect their hands-on configuration skills. CCNA Router and Switch eSIM combines on two CD-ROMs tools that not only provide intermediate- to late-stage hands-on test preparation but also provide help in translating theoretical learning to real-world application. Network simulations, tutorial activities, practice test questions, and other electronic learning tools result in a comprehensive and interactive package for CCNA self-study.

CCNA Router and Switch eSIM begins with the eSIM network simulator. This simulator provides hands-on experience with routers and switches using three network scenarios: five routers, which includes support for access control lists (ACLs); three switches, for trunking and virtual LANs (VLANs); and two switches and one router, for routing between VLANs. Each scenario enables you to specify your own IP addressing schemes, providing you with a dynamic IP addressing environment. The accompanying electronic user manual presents 14 activities for you to work through, but the totally open, freely configurable, simulative environment of the eSIM network simulator allows hours of exploration and experimentation throughout the three network scenarios.

CCNA Router and Switch eSIM is part of a recommended learning path from Cisco Systems that can include simulation and hands-on training from authorized Cisco Learning Partners and self-study products from Cisco Press.Titles in this series provide officially developed exam preparation materials that offer interactive learning, assessment, and networking simulation experience to help Cisco Career Certification candidates learn concepts and understand the application of networking concepts in a real-world setting.

The interactive self-study learning products on two CD-ROMs enable you to
Practice with freely configurable software-based network scenarios
Work within three network environments
Develop your hands-on skills
Gain confidence for your CCNA exam

Minimum System Requirements
System running Windows(r) 95, 98, 2000, or NT(r) 4.0, Mac(r) OS 9 or higher300 MHz with 64 MB RAM
Minimum 800 x 600 video resolution with 256 or more colorsCD-ROM drive
Windows Media(tm) Player 7.0 or higher. Note: Windows 95 and NT 4.0 do not support Windows Media Player 7.0, so the videos must be played on a different OS

CCNA(r) Router and Switch eSIM provides state-of-the-art network environment simulations

Flashcards Flashcards contain a sampler of 200 questions to help you study for the CCNA certification exam. These questions cover seven key skill areas: the OSI model, Cisco IOS(r) Software, routing, IP addressing, LAN switching, WANs, and routing protocols.

VideosVideos further your understanding of complex networking topics and provide an ideal format for showing facilities such as wiring closets. In these videos, Cisco Networking Academy(tm) Program instructors guide you step-by-step through complex processes like subnetting Class C IP addresses and determining administrative distances. Topics such as dedicated and switched WAN technologies, CSU/DSUs, and access control lists are also discussed. Other videos discuss various components of Cisco equipment.

PhotoZoomsPhotoZooms feature high-quality photographs that enable you to zoom in and out and change angles to see various levels of detail. Fifteen PhotoZooms show various networking equipment including hardware devices, cables, and diagnostic tools.

Host Configuration To simulate a real-world environment, CCNA Router and Switch eSIM requires you to configure the communication parameters of the host computer connected to the device. Additionally, you can ping from host to host, host to device, or device to device after you correctly configure the devices.

Color Coded Help Multiple levels of the context-sensitive help provided with Cisco IOS(r) Software are included. Commands supported by CCNA Router and Switch eSIM are highlighted. Syntax errors are treated just the same way they are on real hardware. Nonsupported commands pop up a window.

Configuration ScreenInteract with devices via a terminal emulation program (CiscoTerminal). Command abbreviation, command completion, the cursor keys, and the More prompt all respond the same way they do with actual Cisco networking equipment.


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6/10/2012

CCNA Virtual Lab, Platinum Edition (640-801) Review

CCNA Virtual Lab, Platinum Edition (640-801)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
As a Cisco Academy student I bought this with the intent to supplement the lab activities and to do labs when lab time was not available. As another reviewer noted, the first thing it asks is if you want to upgrade. I am finishing the second half of the CCNA 1&2 book and this was a help with some of the early labs. As we got further I noted commands missing and not enough hardware can be set up to do the labs. I found the access-list command not working which blew away any ACL labs and practice. It just isn't worth the money for a serious student. I am upgraging to Router Sims NetVis 4.0 (actually the same engine this one uses, this is a scaled down version that Sybex resells). It has all the Cisco Academy semester 2 labs and looks like it covers all the commands. Appears to be a much more comprehensive simulator for about 80 bucks more. See the comparison at their web page.
This will give you a feel for router configs, but has too many limitations to be more than just a toy. If you are serious about CCNA lab and practice, you will find this lacking very quickly.

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5/25/2012

Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide (3rd Edition) Review

Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide (3rd Edition)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Wendell Odom has, yet again, created an excellent study guide for the latest CCNA exam.
I teach Cisco courses at a large, Chicago based training center. Since we are not a Cisco authorized training center, we do not have access to the Cisco course materials. I use this book since it is as close as you are going to get to the Cisco course material. No one is going to write a book that compliments the exam material as closely as Cisco Press. As an instructor, I appreciate the depth in which the material is covered. This book does not cover exactly what is required for the exam. It covers significantly more. Given the competitive nature of the industry today, enough is not enough. You can't enter this industry and be average if you want to succeed. In the past, I have used the Sybex material for our training courses. Regularly, I had students that learned enough from the book to have questions the book didn't answer. The one complaint I have about this book is the speed in which the material gets deep. There is little ramp up time for a newbie to the material. If you are brand new to the IT industry and Cisco, you may want to start with a more watered down book, such as the Sybex 607 book and graduate to this book for additional detail.
This book has an excellent assortment of charts, graphs and pictures for the visual learner. Read, see and do are all required parts of the learning process. I find I learn best when I read about a concept, refer to a diagram to solidify the detail, and then, if possible, do it.
Lastly, the CD that comes with the book is excellent. In the past, Cisco's CCNA CDs have been mediocre at best. The new CD has the complete book in PDF format and a separate "topic focused" study guide for the last step of exam preparation. The practice exams on the CD are as close as you will come to the real thing (without paying).
If you want to learn about Cisco, understand their products and get your CCNA certification. Stop here. You have found your book.

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The official study guide for CCNA exam #640-607 with new exam format practice questions

Coverage of all CCNA exam topics enables you to discover and fill any gaps in your knowledge before the exam date. You'll learn about:
Internetworking functions of each layer of the OSI reference model and how they are performed in network devices
Functionality of Cisco IOS(r) Software and TCP/IP and IPX network protocols
Segmentation of networks using routers, switches, and bridges
Use and configuration of Catalyst(r) switches, Spanning-Tree Protocol (STP), and virtual LANs (VLANs)
Concepts behind RIP and IGRP and how to add routing protocols to a configuration
Configuration, monitoring, and verification of standard and extended IP and IPX access lists
Frame Relay and ISDN concepts and configuration

Although it's the first step in the Cisco Career Certifications, the CCNA exam is a difficult test. The recent additions of performance-based questions have made it even more challenging. Your first attempt at becoming Cisco certified requires a lot of study and confidence in your networking knowledge. When you're ready to test your skills, complete your knowledge of exam topics, and prepare for exam day, you need the preparation tools found in Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide from Cisco Press.

Completely revised by CCIE(r) and certified Cisco Systems instructor Wendell Odom, Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide is a comprehensive study tool for the CCNA exam. Updated with new content and features to make it easier to read and reference, this book helps you understand and master the material you will need to know to pass the exam. The instructor-developed elements and techniques enable you to maximize your retention of exam topics. "Do I Know This Already?" quizzes open each chapter and allow you to decide how much time you need to spend on each section. Exam topic lists and Foundation Summary tables and figures make referencing easy and give you a quick refresher whenever you need it. Challenging chapter-ending review questions and scenario exercises help you assess your knowledge and reinforce key concepts.

This edition of the book includes special features in both the text and CD-ROM to help you prepare for the new simulation-based questions you will encounter on the exam. These new simulation-based questions are designed to test your hands-on skills. A chapter of lab scenarios allows you to practice applying your knowledge on home-, work, or remote access-based labs. In addition to these exercises, the robust exam engine on the CD-ROM includes the new question types so that you can assess your ability to handle this new challenge. The CD-ROM's test engine includes powerful features that enable you to take practice exams that mimic the real testing environment, focus on particular topic areas, track your progress, and refer to electronic text to review concepts.

Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide is part of a recommended learning path from Cisco Systems that can include simulation and hands-on training from authorized Cisco Learning Partners and self-study products from Cisco Press.

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4/10/2012

CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide (CCNA Exams 640-816 and 640-802) (2nd Edition) Review

CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide (CCNA Exams 640-816 and 640-802) (2nd Edition)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This book is the authority on all topics required to pass ICND2. Every little detail on the test is covered by this book. Here's the best part - it reads very well. Its not full of fluff or unnecessary text that the author added it just to beef up the book. Wendel is straight and to the point. After you're done reading this, do about 300-400 practice questions only on the ICND2 topics; I did, and I passed ICND2 on the first try.

Click Here to see more reviews about: CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide (CCNA Exams 640-816 and 640-802) (2nd Edition)

CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification GuideSecond EditionMaster ICND2 640-816 and CCNA 640-802 exam topics with the official study guide Assess your knowledge with chapter-opening quizzes Review key concepts with Exam Preparation Tasks Practice with hundreds of exam questions on the CD-ROMWendell Odom, CCIE® No. 1624CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide, Second Edition, is a best of breed Cisco® exam study guide that focuses specifically on the objectives for the CCNA® ICND2 exam. This fully updated edition presents complete reviews and a more challenging and realistic exam preparation experience.Senior instructor and best-selling author Wendell Odom shares preparation hints and test-taking tips, helping you identify areas of weakness and improve both your conceptual knowledge and hands-on skills. The material is presented in a concise manner, focused on increasing your understanding of exam topics and preparing you for the numerous challenges the exams present.CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide, Second Edition, presents you with an organized test preparation routine through the use of proven series elements and techniques. "Do I Know This Already?" quizzes open each chapter and allow you to decide how much time you need to spend on each section. Chapter-ending Exam Preparation Tasks sections help you drill on key concepts you must know thoroughly and help increase your speed in answering questions, a difficult hurdle many exam candidates face on the new exams. A Final Preparation chapter guides you through tools and resources to help you craft your final study plan. Special troubleshooting sections help you master the complex scenarios you will face on the exam.The companion CD-ROM contains a powerful testing engine that allows you to focus on individual topic areas or take complete, timed exams. The assessment engine also tracks your performance and provides feedback on a chapter-by-chapter basis, presenting question-by-question remediation to the text. The bonus DVD contains more than 60 minutes of personal video mentoring from the author focused mainly on bringing difficult subnetting concepts to life.Well-regarded for its level of detail, assessment features, and challenging practice questions, this book provides you with more detailed information and more realistic practice exercises than any other CCNA study guide, enabling you to succeed on the exam the first time.CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide, Second Edition, is part of a recommended learning path from Cisco that includes simulation and hands-on training from authorized Cisco Learning Partners and self-study products from Cisco Press. To find out more about instructor-led training, e-learning, and hands-on instruction offered by authorized Cisco Learning Partners worldwide, please visit www.cisco.com/go/authorizedtraining.Wendell Odom, CCIE® No. 1624, has been in the networking industry since 1981. He currently teaches QoS, MPLS, and CCNA courses for Skyline Advanced Technology Services (www.skyline-ats.com). Wendell has worked as a network engineer, consultant, systems engineer, and instructor and course developer, and has taught authorized Cisco courses for the majority of the last 14 years.The official study guide helps you master all the topics on the CCNA ICND2 exam, includingVirtual LANs and Spanning Tree Protocol Static and connected routes VLSM and route summarization IP access control lists OSPF and EIGRP configuration Point-to-point WANs Frame Relay VPNs Network address translation IPv6 TroubleshootingCompanion CD-ROMThe CD-ROM contains an electronic copy of the book and 200 practice questions for the ICND2 and full CCNA exams, including simulation and testlet questions, all available in study mode andtest mode.BONUS DVDThe DVD contains more than 60 minutes of personal instruction from the author!This volume is part of the Exam Certification Guide Series from Cisco Press®. Books in this series provide officially developed exam preparation materials that offer assessment, review, and practice to help Cisco Career Certification candidates identify weaknesses, concentrate their study efforts, and enhance their confidence as exam day nears.Category: Cisco Press—Cisco CertificationCovers: CCNA ICND2 Exam 640-816

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12/26/2011

CCNA Virtual Lab, Titanium Edition 2.0: (Exam 640-802) Review

CCNA Virtual Lab, Titanium Edition 2.0: (Exam 640-802)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The first time I used this product, I thought that I might be typing in something wrong. I then attempted to copy actual command line text into the router sim and found that half of the commands were not supported. I went online, and noticed that the majority of the most important commands were not supporte by this router sim software. I recommend that you do not purchase this software. Only purchase software that allows you to fully practice all commands. This is the only way to make sure you can obtain your CCNA and be able to apply it in the workforce. This software does not allow that at all. I am very disappointed in William Tedder's software.
The next issue was with the publisher of this software. I did not deactivate this software before attempting to reinstall it. I was told that I would need to pay $10 in order to receive a new serial number. I have already returned this product and am requesting a refund from Amazon. I am now going to carefully shop and make sure the next router sim I purchase does not have all these restrictions. It is ridiculous to pay $120, to have the majority of the commands not supported, and then to pay extra money to reactivate the product.

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This virtual network simulator is ideal for candidates studying for the new CCNA exam (640-802) who cannot afford thousands of dollars to set up their own Cisco home lab. Offering hands-on practice with routers and switches is critical for success on the CCNA exam, and this simulator uses drag-and-drop technology to create a simulated lab using an unlimited number of routers and switches. Also included are lab exercises and guidance to help students experiment with hundreds of configuration commands built into the simulator. Plus, 250 hands-on labs zero in on skills that are critical for exam success and an extensive Help menu is available to guide you through complex tasks.

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11/30/2011

CCNA Security Exam Cram (Exam IINS 640-553) Review

CCNA Security Exam Cram  (Exam IINS 640-553)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this book to prepare for the CCNA Security Exam due to the ratings I saw at the Amazon store. The book is pretty concise and everything is really well explained. The only dissapointing thing is the fact that there is a chapter not fully covered in the book. That is the Securing Layer 2 devices chapter. To have a full read about that topic, I would recommend the CCNA Security Official Exam Certification Guide from Cisco written by Kevin Wallace. Anyway, the Exam Cram has result in a very good book to read for preparing the exam, which I hope pass in a few weeks.
Hope you find interesting this review.

Click Here to see more reviews about: CCNA Security Exam Cram (Exam IINS 640-553)

In this book you'll learn how to:Build a secure network using security controlsSecure network perimetersImplement secure management and harden routersImplement network security policies using Cisco IOS firewallsUnderstand cryptographic servicesDeploy IPsec virtual private networks (VPNs)Secure networks with Cisco IOS® IPSProtect switch infrastructuresSecure endpoint devices, storage area networks (SANs), and voice networksWRITTEN BY A LEADING EXPERT:Eric Stewart is a self-employed network security contractor who finds his home in Ottawa, Canada. Eric has more than 20 years of experience in the information technology field, the last 12 years focusing primarily on Cisco® routers, switches, VPN concentrators, and security appliances. The majority of Eric's consulting work has been in the implementation of major security infrastructure initiatives and architectural reviews with the Canadian Federal Government. Eric is a certified Cisco instructor teaching Cisco CCNA, CCNP®, and CCSP® curriculum to students throughout North America and the world.CD Features MeasureUp Practice Questions!This book includes a CD-ROM that features:Practice exams with complete coverage of CCNA® Security exam topicsDetailed explanations of correct and incorrect answersMultiple exam modesFlash Card formatAn electronic copy of the bookinformit.com/examcramISBN-13: 978-0-7897-3800-4ISBN-10: 0-7897-3800-7U.S. $39.99CAN. $43.99Net U.K. £25.99

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11/26/2011

CCNA Official Exam Certification Library (Exam 640-802), Third Edition (Containing ICND1 and ICND2 Second Edition Exam Certification Guides) Review

CCNA Official Exam Certification Library (Exam 640-802), Third Edition (Containing ICND1 and ICND2 Second Edition Exam Certification Guides)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I just took the test today and I'm still in shock about passing the CCNA. About six weeks ago I decided to get serious and start studying for this test. I bought the Cisco Press books and the 'CCNA for Dummies' book. It turns out that I didn't even use the 'Dummies' book. The Cisco Press Library comes with two books, which I read both cover to cover. After reading both books I moved to the CDs that also comes with this set, which have a lot of useful material. The Boson practice exams that come with the book, I think are the most useful. The questions that the practice exams asks are very similar to the questions that the real test asks. With the combination of both the book and the practice exams you will be well prepared. Practicing with all the tricky questions really makes you learn the material to the smallest detail. The DVDs that come with the book are pretty lame and dry, I didn't even use them. I do what to clarify that I did have previous hands on experience with Cisco routers, but I used a free simulator to brush up on some of my skills. This book set is a must and I probably would not have passed without it. I was really nervous walking into the exam, but the resources that this book set provides prepared me very well for the exam.

Click Here to see more reviews about: CCNA Official Exam Certification Library (Exam 640-802), Third Edition (Containing ICND1 and ICND2 Second Edition Exam Certification Guides)

CCNA Official Exam Certification Library, Third Edition, is the newest edition of the all-time best-selling CCNA self-study preparation package. This comprehensive review and practice package is designed for the latest CCNA 640-802 exams. The two books contained in this package, CCENT/CCNA ICND1 Official Exam Certification Guide, Second Edition, and CCNA ICND2 Official Exam Certification Guide, Second Edition, present complete reviews and a more challenging and realistic preparation experience. The books are updated to cover all the new 640-802 exam objectives, such as security, wireless, IPv6, and troubleshooting.Please note that while this is the Third Edition of the Library, the two books inside are Second Editions. This is correct, and the editions align differently because of changes in the names of the exams, from the old INTRO and ICND to the new ICND1 and ICND2 formats.What can you do with the CCNA Official Exam Certification Library?
Assess your knowledge with chapter-opening quizzes
Review key concepts with Exam Preparation Tasks
Practice with hundreds of exam questions on the CD-ROM
Learn about more complex topics with over one hour of video training
CCNA Official Exam Certification Library, Third Edition, presents you with an organized test preparation routine through the use of proven series elements and techniques. "Do I Know This Already" quizzes open each chapter and allow you to decide how much time you need to spend on each section. Chapter ending Exam Preparation Tasks sections help drill you on key concepts you must know thoroughly and help increase your speed in answering questions, a difficult hurdle many candidates face on the new exams. Final Preparation chapters guide you through tools and resources to help you craft your final study plan. Special troubleshooting sections help you master the complex scenarios you will face on the exam.The companion CD-ROMs contain a powerful testing engine with over 400 questions that allow you to focus on individual topic areas or take complete, timed exams. The test engine also includes simulation and testlet questions, and all questions are available in study mode and test mode. The assessment engine also tracks your performance and provides feedback on a chapter-by-chapter basis, presenting question-by-question remediation to the text.The bonus DVDs contain more than 60 minutes of personal video mentoring from the author focused mainly on the topic of subnetting. These videos help bring difficult subnetting concepts to life and make learning easy.Well-regarded for its level of detail, assessment features, and challenging practice questions, this completely revised and updated edition provides you with more detailed information and more realistic practice exercises than any other CCNA study guide, enabling you to succeed on the exam the first time.Best-selling author and senior instructor Wendell Odom shares preparation hints and test-taking tips, helping you to identify areas requiring further study and to improve your conceptual and hands-on knowledge. The material is presented in a concise manner, focusing on increasing your understanding of exam topics and preparing you for the numerous challenges the exams present.These official study guides help you master all the topics on the CCNA exams, including:
TCP/IP and OSI networking models
Operating Cisco routers and LAN switches
Ethernet switch configuration and troubleshooting
Virtual LANs and Spanning Tree Protocol
Wireless LANs
IP addressing and subnetting
Routing protocols
Router configuration and troubleshooting
Static and connected routes
VLSM and route summarization
IP access control lists
OSPF and EIGRP configuration
WAN configuration and troubleshooting
Frame Relay
Network Security and VPNs
NAT
IPv6
Troubleshooting


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11/14/2011

CCNA Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide (Exam 640-802) (Certification Press) Review

CCNA Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide (Exam 640-802) (Certification Press)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
About 3 years ago I was teaching a CCNA Class when I discovered Richard Deal had practice test at Boson.COM. I have been a true fan ever since and was eagerly awaiting this release for the new CCNA exams.
One thing that has always impressed me about Deal is that he goes far beyond the exam requirements giving you the best chance to pass the exam on the first shot. This 800 plus page book covers all 3 CCNA exams and the book and the add-on cd you have a first rate study tool.
Seeing how the new exams now covers even more topics than previous exams and can be taken in 2 sperate exams, it is good to see that this book shows you the best way to make excellent use of the material based of the exam you are planning to take.
The cd has a limited edition of the Boson NetSim and there are a number of labs in the book that coincide with the simulator. I think that if you need more labs than you should go to Boson.COM and purchase the full version.
There are also practice question ont he cd, coupled with what is in the book you have over 750 questions. Knowing Richard Deal, I am sure that there will be more practice exams for sale at Boson.com, which would add even greater value tothis book.
2 utilites that come with the book, the subnet calculator and the config register, will be highly useful in real life. While they are not allowed in the exam, they will be extremely handy to have around when you begin working on your network(s). A couple of things to add to the next edition, first a few more labs, since I think more is always better. Second the NetSim be a full version allowing to study beyond the exam.
Overall if you are serious about the new CCNA exam, than here's a good place to start your training.

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The Best Fully Integrated Study System Available
With hundreds of practice questions and hands-on exercises, CCNA Cisco Certified Network Associate Study Guide covers what you need to know-and shows you how to prepare-for this challenging exam.

100% complete coverage of all official objectives for exam 640-802

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8/28/2011

CCNA 640-802 Network Simulator Review

CCNA 640-802 Network Simulator
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I just installed this software, and so far - it's just what I was expecting. I have the unique position of having tried both Boson's NetSim and RouterSim's Network Visualizer simulation software packages, and although both are excellent products (and getting better) I find Wendell Odom's product to be more intuitive and easier to just jump right in. In my opinion, the design process that goes into designing any network simulation software, is similar to designing a game. Some games require you to learn the controls, before you can really get started, while others are so well thought out that you can well, just jump right in.
However, if anyone has any plans to progress beyond the CCNA (eg. CCNP, etc.), I would recommend taking a look at the other two simulators. When I first purchased RouterSim's Network Visualizer, it was still a buggy product and prone to crashes. Even so, it was the only worthwhile game in town, at the time (2004). I never got the opportunity to finish the labs, as I was called to active duty and served over seas for almost two years. RouterSim's Network Visualizer has a particularly strict software license. You only get one, and in order to install it on another machine, you have to send your activation key back to the company (online, via the software itself). Once the license is back with the company, you can then install the software again on another computer, and then activate the product by downloading activation key from them once again. Ever served in the military? Well when you get those orders, you go. There is not a lot of time. You may have a few days to settle any pending business, like saying goodbye to your family and friends, making sure your will is in order, arrange for your bills to be paid, and so on. So transferring a software license wasn't on the top of my list. My software was originally installed on a desktop and I was not about to lug that (and the monitor) with me in my ruck. By the time I came back, the CCNA exam had changed so much that my simulator was, yes - outdated. I tried explaining my situation to the nice folks at RouterSim, but I was informed nicely that I can just purchase the upgrade. Remembering my experiences with the software crashes, I declined and signed up to take a CCNA cram class instead. Big mistake.
For a newbie, cram courses don't work. Eight days (8 hours a day) of instruction will not teach you the operations of a network and how Routers and Switches come into play so much so that you can pass the CCNA. Much less, get you so familiar with the input commands that you can use on the job. In my class, I had an Egyptian instructor who may be very knowledgeable, but help me if I can understand a darn thing that he was saying. I just couldn't get pass the accent. The school did however, introduced me to Boson's NetSim, a far superior product than my older version of RouterSim's Network Visualizer. Oh yes, if you decide on taking a class, make sure that they give you access to ACTUAL Cisco equipment! They didn't technically lie to me however, the school did have Cisco equipment, but that was a very brief show and tell. We primarily were working with the NetSim software. There are several versions now - CCENT, CCNA, CCNP, etc. They also sell videos and mp3's, besides the simulation software. Cisco seems to be endorsing them, you can find links to Boson from the Cisco website. To briefly describe the product, you basically have a network simulation software package along with a couple of pdf lab manuals (they are compressed and will appear once you've installed the software). I would print out the manuals and follow through the lessons, chapter by chapter.
So why do I prefer Wendell Odom's Network Simulator over the others? One, you get 4 licenses. Yes, you can install your product on FOUR separate computers. Two, the price. Wendell Odom's Network Simulator is under $100 (Amazon price, retail is $149). RouterSim's CCNA Network Visualizer is $229.00. And Boson's NetSim for CCNA is $249. And third, the pdf step-by-step lessons on Wendell Odom's Network Simulator pops up as you activate the corresponding lesson simulation. Something that I can really appreciate, as I will be traveling a lot on my new job, and don't want to carry a hard copy lesson book with me, nor scroll through the pages to the lesson I want. Dual monitors would serve you well here. It really is just simpler to use. You are presented with a lesson menu on the right side. A diagram of your network is on the top left, and the command line section (where you type) is below that. Click on the computer icon on your virtual network, and on the command line section you're looking at the CLI interpretation of what you would see if you were logged on to that computer. The same goes for the switches and the routers. Neat.
Do bear in mind however, that network simulators are just that, they only simulate the network and is not the real thing. They are by no means a perfect substitution for actual equipment. The lessons on either of the packages mentioned, must be executed on the respective software packages themselves, in the specific manner that is described, or they may not work. This new test (640-802) has challenged even Network Engineers currently in the workforce. I know a couple of techs, currently going through the recertification process, and even they are intimidated. One of the reasons is increased focus on Switching, a previously intermediate (CCNP) level subject. And there is the current approval of Subnet Zeros for the CCNA, that's gotta throw some people off. It did for me, I was taught something else.
If you are going for your certification for the first time - I recommend signing up for a Cisco Network Academy class. It may take up to a year to graduate, but you will not be wasting your time. Another option, is to get your own equipment. But, if none of these are options for you - Wendell Odom's Network Simulator is by far the cheapest solution on the market. Whatever option you finally choose, designing networks and supporting network equipment is not a book learning exercise. You shouldn't read your books from cover to cover, and then do the exercises - let the exercises be your guide. Just remember, it is critical that you get some hands-on experience (simulators, or the real deal).
Unfortunately, I had to buy this product from an Amazon.com competitor. It was on my Shopping Cart, but when I went to pay for it, Amazon took it off, "for review". I waited a day or so, and it was still under "review", so I had no choice but to go elsewhere. I had to pay a little more, but I was already waiting a month or so for this simulator to come on the market and had put my studies on hold until it does, therefore, I just couldn't wait anymore. Sorry, Amazon.com.

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The most effective router and switch simulator for hands-on CCNA® skills enhancementThis software only product covers all CCNA topics 250 labs 8 different lab topologies 3000+ hands-on tasks Three Unique types of labs CCNA 640-802 Network Simulator helps you develop and improve hands-on configuration and troubleshooting skills without the investment in expensive lab hardware. This state-of-the-art, interactive simulation software allows you to practice your networking skills with more than 250 structured labs designed to help you learn by doing, the most effective method of learning. Experience realistic network device response as you work through each of the labs (available in electronic form on the CD), which include detailed instructions, topology diagrams, hints, and full answers. Unlike other simulators on the market, the lab scenarios included in the CCNA 640-802 Network Simulator are far more complex, challenging you to learn how to perform realistic network configuration and troubleshooting tasks.This unique network simulation software helps you master the hands-on skills needed to succeed on the CCNA® exam. Topics covered include:Router and switch navigation and administration LAN switching IP addressing Routing WANs VLANs and trunking IP routing protocols Scaling IP TroubleshootingSystem Requirements:500 MHz or higher processor 512 MB RAM (1 GB recommended) 500 MB hard drive space 32-bit true color monitor (1024x768 resolution) Microsoft Windows XP Professional with SP3, Microsoft Vista, or Mac OS X Version 10.4.11 or higher Java Runtime Environment (JRE) version 1.5.0 Adobe Acrobat Reader 8.0 Connection to the Internet during installation for access code validationAlthough this product was published before these operating systems were released, this product has been tested and successfully installed on Windows 7 platforms as well as Mac OS X Snow Leopard (version 10.6). If you experience any trouble installing the software on these platforms, please contact Pearson Customer Technical Support at: http://www.informit.com/about/contact_us/. Category: Cisco® CertificationCovers: CCNA exam 640-802

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