CCIE 100 Success Secrets - Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert; The Missing Training, Exam Study, Certification Preparation and CCIE Application Guide

CCIE 100 Success Secrets: Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - The Missing Training, Exam Study, Certification Preparation and CCIE Application Guide

Notice of Rights: Copyright © Gerard Blokdijk. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher. Notice of Liability: The information in this book is distributed on an “As Is” basis without warranty. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of the book, neither the author nor the publisher shall have any liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by the instructions contained in this book or by the products described in it. Trademarks: Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where those designations appear in this book, and the publisher was aware of a trademark claim, the designations appear as requested by the owner of the trademark. All other product names and services identified throughout this book are used in editorial fashion only and for the benefit of such companies with no intention of infringement of the trademark. No such use, or the use of any trade name, is intended to convey endorsement or other affiliation with this book.

Write a Review and Receive a Bonus Emereo eBook of Your Choice

Up to $99 RRP – Absolutely Free If you recently bought this book we would love to hear from you – submit a review of this title and you’ll receive an additional free ebook of your choice from our catalog at http://www.emereo.org.

How Does it Work? Submit your review of this title via the online store where you purchased it. For example, to post a review on Amazon, just log in to your account and click on the ‘Create Your Own Review’ button (under ‘Customer Reviews’) on the relevant product page (you’ll find plenty of example product reviews on Amazon). If you purchased from a different online store, simply follow their procedures.

What Happens When I Submit my Review? Once you have submitted your review, send us an email via [email protected], and include a link to your review and a link to the free eBook you’d like as our thank-you (from http://www.emereo.org – choose any book you like from the catalog, up to $99 RRP). You will then receive a reply email back from us, complete with your bonus ebook download link. It's that simple!

Success Secrets Foreword

There has never been a publication series like this. Success Secrets titles are not about the long-winded ins and outs of each featured contemporary topic. Instead, they answer the top 100 questions that we are asked and come across daily in professional forums, consultancy and education programs. Success Secrets cover the questions that matter, with straightforward, highly accessible tips that have never before been offered in print. These books are not about exhaustive best practice and standards details. Instead, they address the key strategic points you want to know to be successful in your chosen field. The Secrets are right here – reach out and grasp Success with both hands…

Table of Contents How to Become a CCIE Certified Expert ........................................10 CCIE Exam Taking on the Highest Level of all CISCO Certifications.......................................................................................11 CCIE Jobs The Difference between a Network Administrator and a Network Engineer....................................................................12 CCIE Lab Exam A Hands-on Test to Prove One s Qualification ...............................................................................................................14 CCIE Resume The Need for CCIE Recertification.......................16 CCIE Security Learning the Principles of Network Security......17 CCIE Training The Best Line of Defense Against Failure ..........18 CCIE Voice Becoming an Expert on VoIP.....................................20 CCIE Written Exams The Most Critical Part of the CCIE Certification ........................................................................................21 The Five Tracks of CCIE ....................................................................22 Tips on Passing the CCIE 350-001 ..................................................24 Thank God for CCIE audio................................................................25 The Average Salary of a CCIE ...........................................................26 More Info From a CCIE Blog ............................................................27 Get Yourself a CCIE Blueprint..........................................................28 Getting Yourself a CCIE Book ..........................................................29 Where to Get CCIE Books .................................................................30 The Need for a CCIE Boot Camp......................................................31

The Popularity of CCIE Boot Camps .............................................. 32 Choose the Right Kind of CCIE Bootcamps................................... 33 Why Not Try CCIE Braindump?...................................................... 34 The Ease That CCIE CBT Brings ..................................................... 35 The Essence of CCIE Cert................................................................. 36 CCIE Certification: The Real Deal................................................... 37 The Prestige of CCIE Certification .................................................. 38 Benefits of Being CCIE Certified ..................................................... 39 How To Make The Most Out of a CCIE Class ................................ 40 Always to Your Advantage: Enroll in CCIE Classes Now! ........... 41 The Easiest Way to Finish A CCIE Course..................................... 42 Important Considerations in the CCIE Exams.............................. 43 CCIE Forums A Great Way to find Solutions to Cisco Matters. 44 Setting Up A CCIE Home lab? Start off With Routers ................. 45 CCIE: Creating Impact All Over the World ................................... 46 CCIE Jobs Challenging and Rewarding at the Same Time! ...... 47 Getting Started with Lab Equipment in CCIE............................... 48 Timely Tips for CCIE Lab Exams .................................................... 49 What s In Store for You In CCIE Lab Rentals ............................... 50 Consider Getting Into CCIE Labs.................................................... 51 Expert Advice for CCIE Lab Training............................................. 52 Useful Tips For Prospective CCIE Lab Workbook Purchasers ... 53 The CCIE List of Readings ............................................................... 54 Some Important Notes Regarding the CCIE Exam ...................... 55

CCIE Number: The Mark of an IT Expert ......................................57 CCIE Online Training: How to Find Excellent CCIE Training Center...................................................................................................58 CCIE Pay: The Rewards of Becoming an IT Expert ......................59 CCIE Plaque: The Coveted Badge of Honor ...................................60 CCIE Practical Studies: A Thousand-page Resource for IT Experts .................................................................................................61 CCIE Practice is Key to CCIE Certification Success ......................62 CCIE Prep Kits: Essential Tools for Passing the CCIE Exams.....63 3 Foolproof CCIE Preparation Tips .................................................64 Familiarize Yourself with CCIE Questions .....................................65 The Scope of CCIE R&S.....................................................................66 Success with CCIE Rack Training ....................................................67 CCIE Rack Rental: Providing Convenient CCIE Lab Exam Training ...............................................................................................69 CCIE Routing & Switching Exam: Requirements for Successfully Passing the CCIE Lab Exam .............................................................71 CCIE Routing and Switching Exam: 3 Best Ways to Prepare for the Exam..............................................................................................73 Simple Ways to Pass the CCIE Routing Exam ...............................75 Getting to Know CCIE Routing and Switching ..............................77 The Benefits of CCIE Routing and Switching Lab Boot Camps ..79 CCIE Routing Switching: The Twin CCIE Track ...........................81 Basics of CCIE RS Examination .......................................................83 Why CCIE Salaries Continue to Top the List .................................84

CCIE Salary: The Fruits of Hard CCIE Labor................................ 85 How to Prepare for the CCIE SAN Exam ....................................... 87 The Benefits of Attending CCIE Security Boot Camp .................. 88 Ways to Prepare for the CCIE Security Exam ............................... 90 CCIE Security Lab ............................................................................. 92 A Primer on CCIE Security Lab Workbooks.................................. 94 Bits and Pieces of CCIE Security Rack ........................................... 95 Figuring Out Security Training for CCIE ....................................... 96 Dissecting the CCIE Security Written Exam Bit by Bit ................ 97 Cracking the Code: First Dibs on the CCIE Security Written Exam.................................................................................................... 98 CCIE Service Provider Provides Real Assistance.......................... 99 Preview of CCIE SP Examination.................................................. 101 Rise Up the Ladder with CCIE Storage ........................................ 103 The Lowdown on CCIE Storage Networking............................... 104 CCIE Study: Best Preparation for the Examination ................... 105 CCIE Study Groups for Better Learning ...................................... 107 Spending on a Good CCIE Study Guide Has Its Rewards ......... 108 Pass the CCIE Test and Get an Expert Level Cisco Certification ............................................................................................................ 109 Master s List of CCIE Tracks ......................................................... 110 Verifying CCIE Members Certification with the CCIE Verification Tool .............................................................................. 111 Passing the CCIE Voice Exam Means Expertise in Cisco VoIP Solutions ........................................................................................... 112

Completing the Certification by Passing the CCIE Voice Lab Exam ..................................................................................................113 Passing The CCIE Voice Written Exam Is a Good Start .............114 Going for a CCIE VoIP Certification..............................................115 Getting the CCIE Workbook That Gets You Certified.................116 Passing the CCIE Written Exam Brings You a Step Closer to a CCIE Certification ............................................................................117 CCNA CCIE Certification: Which One is Appropriate for YOu?118 CCNA CCNP CCIE Certifications: Get It All Or Get CCIE Certified Right Away........................................................................119 The advantages of becoming CCIE-Cisco Certified Network Professional Holder .........................................................................120 Cisco CCIE Taking Chances on a Bigger Challenge...................122 Mastering Cisco s CCIE Lab Exam ................................................123 What it is to know about CCIE-DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)...................................................................124 What does it take to acquire the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification? ...........................................................125 IP Expert CCIE: Qualify as a VoIP expert.....................................127 Pass CCIE for Sure with Pass4sure CCIE .....................................129 Steps to pass CCIE exams ...............................................................131 Utilizing Rapidshare CCIE..............................................................132 The Real CCIE Labs is the Real Way to Review...........................133

9

10

How to Become a CCIE Certified Expert The Cisco Certified Internet Expert certification or CCIE is an internet certification that is becoming more and more popular. As the IT industry is expanding at an exponential rate, the demand for highly trained IT personnel is also increasing. Because of this, many multinational companies are on the lookout for competent and certified IT professionals and network engineers to look after their IT network. A person having a CCIE certification would be highly in demand for such corporations. This article will give an overview on how to become a CCIE expert. Before anything else, a candidate must first choose what CCIE track or tracks to take. There are five basic tracks available, namely; (1) Routing and switching track, (2) security track, (3) service provider track, (4) storage networking track, and (5) voice track. After choosing which CCIE track to take, the candidate must then pass a two-hour multiple-choice written exam specifically designed for the chosen track. The passing rate for the exam is 70 percent out of 100 questions. The next step in the CCIE certification process is for the candidate to pass the CCIE laboratory exam. This exam is also designed for the track that the candidate has chosen and would last for about 8 hours. The laboratory exam would ensure that the candidate has both the theoretical and the practical or applied knowledge of IT. Candidates who pass both the written exam and the laboratory exam are then given CCIE certified status for their chosen track. Candidates may also hold multiple CCIE certifications for a number of tracks. In order to do this, the candidates must also pass both exams for each of the track applied for.

11

CCIE Exam Taking on the Highest Level of all CISCO Certifications Getting Cisco certified is one of the priorities of most IT professionals nowadays. Not only that a high paying job awaits those who are skillful and knowledgeable enough to pass the certification exam, but it is also a great career move that gives way to more learning opportunities for personal growth and development. Among the Cisco certifications, CCIE is the most in demand, having a total of 15,658 people with active CCIE certifications in the world as of November of 2007. CCIE stands for Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert and is the highest level of CISCO certifications. The program started in 1993 originally with a two day lab and was later changed to one day format. The degree of difficulty is a bit high for this exam that only fewer than 3% of Cisco certified individuals attain the CCIE status. Before then exam proper, the candidates are expected to spend more money to attend trainings and practice lab scenarios, not to mention the fee for every exam attempt on both written and lab exams. The written exam costs US $315 per attempt and will be taken first. Candidates need to take note that there is a need to pass the written exam first before taking the lab exam within a period of 18 months. The lab exam costs about US $1400 per attempt, and if the candidate is unsuccessful in passing it on the first try, he or she has 3 years to accomplish the lab exam. If after this period and still the candidate has not yet passed the lab exam, then he or she needs to take the written exam again. Indeed, it is critical to pass both exams on first attempt to save more of one s valuable money.

12

CCIE Jobs The Difference between a Network Administrator and a Network Engineer Taking on the role of a Cisco certified IT professional is rewarding and yet challenging at the same time. A wide variety of jobs await CCIE exam passers, which also depends on the candidate s expertise and experience. Two of the most popular CCIE jobs include working as a Network Administrator or as a Network Engineer on a certain company. Now, what makes one networking job different from the other? A Network Administrator, who manages an organization s PCs or LAN network, has a lot of other job titles attached to it, such as Systems Administrator, Network Operations Analyst, Network Technician or an Information Systems Administrator. Job responsibilities of a Network Administrator include installing, configuring and maintaining PCs, network equipment and network operating systems. He or she must also deal with patching and locking down systems to make sure that only authorized personnel can enter and use the network. He or she must also diligent with strong analytical and interpersonal skills to work closely with users and troubleshoot problems under tense situations. On the other hand, a Network Engineer is also often referred to as a Senior Network Administrator, Network Designer, Network Architect or Network Analyst. He or she is the one responsible in designing and managing the organization s LAN and WAN networks, which means this position is higher than a Network Administrator. Job responsibilities of a Network Engineer include deciding on which software applications and hardware equipment to meet an organization s IT needs, aside from managing the rolling out of new systems while ensuring that appropriate corrective

13

measures are performed. A Network Engineer usually starts out as a Network Administrator and moves on to more specific roles in the future.

14

CCIE Lab Exam A Hands-on Test to Prove One s Qualification Each of the five tracks of CCIE (a) Routing and Switching, (b) Security, (c) Service Provider, (d) Storage Networking and (e) Voice, has its own written and lab exams that candidates should successfully pass before getting a Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) certification. A written exam is just like any other exam that consists of multiple choice questions taken from various subjects, depending on the candidates chosen track. It is because of this very nature of the written exam that makes it easier for exam takers to pass mostly on first attempt. But then again, the challenge lies on the lab exam, requiring candidates to think of possible practical lab scenarios that will most likely appear on the actual exam. The exam for the lab is what makes CCIE different from other certification programs. It costs around US $1,400 per attempt. It is usually a full day (8 hour) hands-on tests that measure a candidate s ability to configure and troubleshoot equipment. Because of this, there are only quite a few who pass this exam while others may need multiple attempts to complete it. This is not administered by Pearson VUE as there are only 10 specific Cisco lab exam locations worldwide - Bangalore, India; Beijing, China; Brussels, Belgium; Dubai, UAE; Hong Kong, China; Research Triangle Park, NC, USA; San Jose, CA, USA; Sao Paolo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; and Tokyo, Japan. However, lab exams for a particular CCIE track are not available at all testing locations so it is better to inquire about it first. Say for example, the lab exam for

15

Storage Networking is only available at Research Triangle Park, NC and Brussels testing centers.

16

CCIE Resume The Need for CCIE Recertification Getting a Cisco certification means a lot to today s IT professionals. This is because nowadays, most companies require applicants to present certifications to signify their qualification for the vacant position available. It is indeed an ingredient that brings flavor to a comprehensive resume, giving the applicant better chances of getting the job. In addition, getting a certification also gives one a feeling of self-worth, something that should be proud of while earning the respect of fellow IT experts. But then again, Cisco certifications such as the one for Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) are not permanent. This means that CCIEs are required to recertify every two years to show their commitment to maintaining expert level knowledge in any industry that is critical to the success of almost every organization. Since there are a lot of new technologies presented in the world of IT, there is a need to continually expand technical knowledge and redevelop new skills to regain expert status making recertification just the right solution to this slight dilemma. If one is unaware of when to recertify, an online resource can be accessed at the Cisco web site. CCIEs can log in anytime to view one s certification deadline. Succeeding recertification deadlines are always based on the original certification date, not on the last recertification exam. CCIEs have at lease a year to reinstate CCIE status before it becomes inactive, after which they must begin the certification process all over again. Recertification exams can be taken at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. Exam scores are then automatically downloaded to the CCIE database.

17

CCIE Security Learning the Principles of Network Security CCIE Security is one of the five tracks that candidates can choose from. Getting a CCIE certification in Security indicates a candidate s expert level knowledge of IP and IP Routing, as well as network security protocols and components with subjects that include IOS Security, IDS, ASA and many others. There are no prerequisites for this type of CCIE certification, though candidates are encouraged to undergo training to enhance their knowledge and skills as far as network security is concerned. There are barely two steps that candidates need to take before getting CCIE Security certified. The first step is to pass the written exam. It is a two-hour test with 100 multiple choice questions that needs to be answered within specific time constraints. No open books or other reference materials allowed when taking the exam. It usually costs around US $300, which also depends on exchange rates and local taxes. Results of the CCIE exam are available immediately after the exam. Passing it means that the candidate is ready to move on to the next step and that is to take the lab exam within a period of 18 months only. Failure to do so may mean expiration of the written exam score. The CCIE Security lab exam is an 8-hour hands-on test that requires candidates to configure, troubleshoot and solve problems presented to them. It usually costs around US $1,400 per attempt and exam scores are available online within 48 hours. Scores are evaluated by proctors to ensure that certain requirements or criteria are met. If a candidate is doubtful and would like proctors to reevaluate his or her score, he or she has to pay an additional US $250 to request for reread. However, this is possible only if 14 days have passed following the exam date.

18

CCIE Training The Best Line of Defense Against Failure It is indeed a fact that getting a certification for Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) is not a joke. This is because it requires candidates to give their 100% attention for them to be able to pass two exams that they need to take one written and one lab exam. Though it is true that there are no normal prerequisites for the CCIE exam, still there is a need to have a working knowledge and adept experience in networking. This is where proper CCIE training comes in. CCIE has five tracks in place and it is the candidate s prerogative which among these (a) Routing and Switching, (b) Security, (c) Service Provider, (d) Storage Networking or ( e) Voice suits his capabilities as a networking expert. Training plays a major role in defining certain key strengths that will help candidates decide on which track to take. To enhance their skills, they have the option to take training courses or read books to ease their way out of the CCIE exams. There are a lot of training institutions that offer such services, facilitated in by experts themselves. Though it may cost CCIE aspirants valuable amount of money by attending training classes alone (roughly $1,500 - $3,000 per class), still the rewards are truly unimaginable once they have stepped up, conquered the exam and achieved CCIE certification.

19

Aside from attending training classes, a candidate has also the option to train at home on Cisco systems. He or she can also check out web sites that offer sample CCIE test questions and assess oneself on how prepared he or she is in taking the exam. Taking advantage of all the resources around will boost candidates confidence and give them more chances on getting CCIE certified.

20

CCIE Voice Becoming an Expert on VoIP Are you an expert in providing VoIP solutions in a certain enterprise? If yes, then you can consider on getting a certification for Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) in Voice. If you happen to know the process of installing, configuring and maintaining Voice solutions over an IP network and you are in a way good at it, CCIE Voice track is just right for you. There are no formal prerequisites such as professional or associate certifications or training courses for this CCIE certification. All you have to do is first pass a written exam and then a lab exam, after which you can already consider yourself as a CCIE certified professional. The CCIE Voice written exam is made up of 100 multiple choice questions that should be completed in two hours. The exam covers applications and technologies that comprise a Cisco Enterprise VoIP solution. It usually costs around US $300 and may vary depending on your location. Exam results are available immediately after you have completed the exam. Once you have successfully passed the written exam, bear in mind that you should be taking the lab exam within 18 months. Or else, you have to start from scratch as written exam scores expire after 18 months. On the other hand, the CCIE Voice lab exam is an 8-hour test that will measure your ability to get a VoIP solution up and running within specified time constraints. You are the one in charge in configuring pre-installed applications to satisfy certain requirements to pass the lab exam. The lab exam may cost you about US $1,400 and is offered on certain Cisco locations in Brussels, Tokyo and Sydney.

21

CCIE Written Exams The Most Critical Part of the CCIE Certification If you would like to be a Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE), then it is very crucial to pass the written exam. A CCIE written exam is one of two certification exams that you need to take. Before jumping to the next type of exam, which happens to be a lab exam, you have to first give your best shot in passing the written exam of 100 multiple choice questions. Each CCIE written exam will cost you around US $300 on every attempt. Because of this, it is indeed a must to pass the exam on the first try to give you more time to focus on the lab exam, which should be taken within 18 months. Failure to do so means nullifying your CCIE written exam score so you have to take the written exam again if ever you are still interested in getting CCIE certified. To register for a CCIE written exam, you can check out the Pearson VUE web site for more information. Prometric has discontinued administering CCIE exams since August 1, 2007. It is a computer-based exam that should be completed in a span of 2 hours. Candidates can also use exam vouchers to pay for the written exam. These test vouchers can be purchased on testing centers and other academic institutions. Exam vouchers are non-refundable and non-returnable, aside from the fact that these will expire after 12 months of being purchased. Other candidates also take on beta written exams when available at a discounted price of US $50. Getting a passing grade on the beta exam earns you a slot on the lab exam. However, beta exams can only be taken during the beta period.

22

The Five Tracks of CCIE Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) is recognized as the most respected IT certification today. CertMag even voted it as the most technically advanced, while other reports claim that it is the highest salaried certification in salary surveys. Indeed, passing CCIE is really worth all the efforts and money that candidates have to consider in taking both the written and lab exams. Though there are really no formal prerequisites, Cisco recommends candidates to have at least 3 to 5 years of experience in networking before making their first attempt on becoming a CCIE. Unlike other certification programs such as the ones offered by Microsoft, there is no need to pass lower Cisco certifications such as associate and professional exams before taking an expert level exam as CCIE. There are 5 CCIE tracks that candidates can choose from, making it possible to hold multiple CCIE certifications at the same time. These are: (a) CCIE Routing and Switching the most popular track that covers a variety of networking protocols and concepts such as Multicast Routing and Border Gateway Protocol; (b) CCIE Security focuses on network security, covering topics such as IOS Security and IDS; (c) CCIE Service Provider concentrates on networking in the service provider industry such as DSL, Cable and Voice over IP; (d) CCIE Voice covers subjects such as Cisco Unity and Call Manager as voice solutions for the enterprise; and (e) CCIE Storage Networking the latest addition on CCIE tracks that concentrates on storage networking topics that include FCIP, FICON and iSCSI.

23

As of November of 2007, there are 1,344 individuals who hold multiple CCIE certifications and 210 of them hold three or more CCIE certifications.

24

Tips on Passing the CCIE 350-001 The Cisco Certified Internet Expert (CCIE) certification is a program that separates the individuals that are capable of understanding all the intricacies, subtleties, nuances and the challenges of networking. CCIE certification involves two processes, namely; the written exam and the hands-on laboratory exam. The CCIE written exam which is also known as CCIE 350001, is a two-hour long exam which is computer based. During the written exam, a candidate will be asked a total of 100 multiplechoice questions which were designed specifically for the track that the candidate has chosen. The CCIE certification program has five tracks to choose from, namely; routing and switching track, security track, service provider track, storage networking track, and voice track. To be successful in the written exam, the candidate must get a score of more than 70 %. Fortunately, there are a lot of different guide books, programs and software that assist candidates in passing the CCIE 350-001 exams. Some programs such as pass4sure CCIE even offer a money-back guarantee if a candidate that uses their program do not pass on the first attempt. After successfully passing the written exam, candidates are then given a hands-on lab exam which normally lasts for 8 hours. During the laboratory exam, candidates are given the chance to apply their theoretical knowledge of networking through hands-on examination. The passing rate for the laboratory exam is 80 %. Most candidates buy networking equipment to practice on and then sell or lease them to other candidates who would also take the hands-on exam.

25

Thank God for CCIE audio The Cisco Certified Internet Expert (CCIE) certification program has become increasingly popular that it has become a global standard for IT professionals and network engineers. However, to become certified by CCIE is a very difficult thing to do since barely 10 percent of those that attempt to get certified become successful. The CCIE certification process involves two steps namely; the written exam and the hands-on laboratory exam. A candidate must first pass the CCIE written exam in order to be able to qualify for the lab exam. This is the reason why passing the CCIE 350-001 (name of CCIE exam) is important. There are numerous products on the market that are designed to assist IT and networking persons in studying and preparing for the CCIE 350-001. Online programs, such as the Pass4sure, provide practice examinations for the candidates. Other CCIE-study materials are also available in the form of books or guides in which the candidates can read in the comfort of their own homes. Memorization of technical jargon is critical and that is why in order to pass the CCIE 350-001, a lot of study and preparation should be made. However, there are times when the study time of a candidate is disturbed. Events such as a family vacation, trips to the grocery store, and long commuting take away the much needed time that a candidate need to prepare for the CCIE exam. Fortunately, CCIE audio lessons are available for type of candidates. These CCIE audio lessons are designed for candidates who are always on the go and do not have much spare time to read and sit down in front of the computer. CCIE audio lessons are in MP3 format and can be downloaded to any MP3 player.

26

The Average Salary of a CCIE The CCIE is not just a simple job which people can freely say that it s nothing but a piece of cake. The CCIE is a very complex job which entails a lot of preparation and experience. Being technically educated is not enough grounds to say that one is indeed proficient enough to be considered for a related job. Working experience and CCIE certification are two of the most important things which are also being considered. For this reason, it s not that hard to see why the CCIE average salary remains to be among the highest within the IT profession. It has been reported that a CCIE s average salary is pegged at $96,870 on an annual basis. Because of these, CCIE have led the pack of highest paid certified professionals working within the information technology field. The CCIE average salary is deemed at an all-time high because of the technicality of the specialization. The CCIE certification is not for just for the heck of it, so to speak. It is only taken in by individuals who have great confidence in both their accumulated experience as well as their current knowledge when it comes to operating the entire Cisco environment. The work of a CCIE is highly technical, which is why it s a bit difficult to find rightful candidates for the position. So to help the recruitment process become a rather swift method, companies offer competitive remunerations for CCIE certified applicants. In effect, big salaries are then attributed to the CCIE profession.

27

More Info From a CCIE Blog If you want to know more about CCIE and its certifications, you should very well be on the look out for a CCIE blog. As you may be familiar with, blogsites are blurbs from people who have something substantial to share in the internet. From its early beginnings are a virtual diary or a virtual journal, blogs have also paved the way for people to set up their free websites as they let other companies host their sites. A CCIE blog may prove to be just what you need of you are thinking about taking the CCIE certification or you re actually on your way on becoming CCIE certified. CCIE blogs will contain first hand information about people who have taken the said exams are going to give you unsolicited advice and will provide you with valuable feedbacks. From those blogs you can more or less get the picture of what it s like to undergo a CCIE certification. Apart from just that concern, CCIE blogs will definitely have updates regarding the effects of certification upon achievement of the person. There are lots to learn about the CCIE profession just by reading a CCIE blog. You should not just limit yourself to reading up on manuals on the internet or busying yourself with practice exams. It s also good that you prepare for the whole CCIE certification by obtaining information from experts and professionals on the same field. In this way, you get all sides related to CCIE. You get both the objective and the subjective feedback which you can trim down according to your own preference.

28

Get Yourself a CCIE Blueprint One of the best ways to prepare for the CCIE exams is to take their practice exams. The CCIE certification exams are highly technical in nature and only those who are quite adept to its specifics are expected to pass. Hence, it will be good for interested IT professionals to have a glimpse of the CCIE certification exams by means of the CCIE blueprint. Just as it is with interior design and architecture, the CCIE blueprint is also the structure in which the CCIE certification exams are founded. Nowadays, the CCIE itself issues accredited CCIE blueprints to help test takers prepare for the exam day itself. But it should be noted that the CCIE blueprint does not contain the exam items itself. It only helps the test takers narrow down the aspects in which they needed to review on. More than anything else, a CCIE blueprint can be considered as a study guide. Generally, the CCIE blueprint comes out in an outline form. It gives the test takers a series of topics which may very much become one of the foundations of the CCIE certification exams. Some of the general topics include Bridging and Switching. This is especially about the relaying of IPs within the Cisco system. Another topic which may be included in the CCIE blueprint is the IP IGP Routing. This usually covers topics which talks about the system routes within the whole network. QoS or Quality of Services are also one of the main subcategories which can be found within the CCIE blueprint.

29

Getting Yourself a CCIE Book The CCIE is composed of two different exams. The first one is a written exam which aims to gauge the test taker s technical and theoretical knowledge of the entire Cisco systems. This is a typical pen and paper type of exam composed of multiple choice questions. On the other hand, the other exam is a lab type of exam. In here, test takers are subjected to situational simulations where their actual skills in terms of troubleshooting a Cisco network will be gauged. So while you have the time to prepare, you should definitely look for the best CCIE book to help empower you through the whole ordeal. Getting a CCIE book is not just for purposes of exam preparations. It can also help you boost your career when it comes to performing Cisco functions as it provides you with in depth knowledge and serves as yur updated Cisco manual. The Cisco Press themselves publish a CCIE book which contains updated information regarding the Cisco systems. They also provide discounts for those who are already CCIE certified yet they wanted to purchase a newly published CCIE book. The books being published under the label of CCIE are often designed to fit the exam blueprints of the CCIE certification exams. However, there are also various handbooks and manuals which are always updated for the new innovations being done to the Cisco program. There are also paper dissertations as well as paper printed materials being offered under the name of CCIE. Just as a typical CCIE book is up for purchase, so are these dissertations and paper prints.

30

Where to Get CCIE Books CCIE books are not exclusive for test takers. Even those who are CCIE certified already can and are recommended to keep abreast with new Cisco technologies by means of purchasing new CCIE books out on the market. One may ask however, where and how these CCIE books can be availed. The answer is easy, as there are plenty of venues where these CCIE books can actually be found. One of the most popular ways to get them is through the internet. There are lots of books shops based online which sell IT related products like CCIE books. They are also a convenient place to shop for books because they usually have rankings for the best sellers which are updated regularly according to the sales made from each book. In effect, you can easily see which book is currently popular. These websites also offer book reviews to serve as helpful guides for potential book buyers. You can also look at the cover of the CCIE books you are interested in. You can freely skim through its cover and see if there are short summaries explaining what can be found inside. Some sites even offer potential customers with a sneak peak into the book details by allowing browsers to see through the book s table of contents. Then of course, there s always the typical way of buying on land based book shops. Another good alternative that can be done is by searching through the home page of the Cisco systems itself. Surely they would always have updates on newly released CCIE books.

31

The Need for a CCIE Boot Camp The CCIE exams are not just your typical type of pen and paper exam. It also involves a series of lab based exams which will really test an individual s expertise when it comes to using the whole Cisco systems. This is the main reason why preparations are necessary and not just any type of preparation for that matter. One of the best ways an individual can prepare in getting CCIE certified is by means of entering into a CCIE boot camp. The CCIE boot camp has become one of the best choices for CCIE certification preparation because it aims to accomplish much within a few days. Usually, the boot camp only lasts for a week and within that week review sessions will be held both in classroom type and simulation methods. It is a very intensive way of preparing for the CCIE exams that it may sometimes feel like one is taking the actual certification exams already. When an individual chooses to self pace prior to the CCIE certification, he may find himself throwing in bits of minutes to review for the exam day. This is because a busy day schedule is often filled with other unrelated responsibilities which can easily make a person lose focus on reviewing. In a CCIE boot camp, the only focus is preparing for the actual exam. As a result, specialization is achieved much easier and people get enough time to cover everything they needed to learn. The CCIE boot camp eliminates the possibility of unrelated interference.

32

The Popularity of CCIE Boot Camps When it comes to preparing for IT certification procedures, professionals nowadays have acknowledge the fact that practice tests and self-paced review are not enough. Thus, the popularity of IT boot camps have risen continuously through time as it offers a strict structure of preparing test takers prior to the testing day. But contrary to how boot camps have originated, no physical strains shall be expected from IT boot camps. CCIE being the hardest yet most prestigious certification in the field of IT has become one of the most sought after theme of IT boot camps. As a result, hundreds of certification aspirants have willingly entered themselves into various CCIE boot camps to help prepare for the looming exam day. Usually, these CCIE boot camps last only a week and after that you might as well say you re good to go have that exam. CCIE boot camps are also recognized by the Cisco program. So in effect, professionals can be ensured that they pay for something that s really worth it. CCIE boot camps have so many advantages which make it a reasonable thing to take. One of them is the focus it gives on each facet of CCIE. No subcategory will be left out in these CCIE boot camps. All of the essential details are tackled and expounded within every session. Moreover, sessions are proven to be interactive in nature. Test takers are provided with practice exams and are also entered into simulated lab exams. Doing these are crucial because CCIE exams are composed of these two types of examinations.

33

Choose the Right Kind of CCIE Bootcamps Because IT certifications are highly technical in nature, IT professionals who wish to take themselves into the next level of their career willingly enter themselves into bootcamps. This is usually the case for CCIE bootcamps. CCIE bootcamps have become popular because the CCIE certification is considered to be the most prestigious yet the hardest type of IT certification. As such, all means necessary to prepare for it must be done by the test taker. Nowadays, lots of different institutions offer CCIE bootcamps to those who wish to train through them. They have also made these CCIE bootcamps by setting them up online for easy access. However, an individual must take all necessary precautions when it comes to entering into these CCIE bootcamps. Lots of things must be considered beforehand. One of them is the accreditation of the said institution. Cisco acknowledges the presence of CCIE bootcamps in order to help individuals best prepare for the looming CCIE exams day. However, online CCIE bootcamps can also turn out to be a scam if they are not properly accredited. Another thing which people should consider before getting themselves into these CCIE bootcamps is the credibility of the instructors. After all, these are the people who would most likely be the ones to handle the training programs so it is important that they really have enough credibility to handle lectures and CCIE related activities. In addition, the CCIE bootcamps structure should also be considered. People should care to know what the activities are in store and what practice programs would one be engaged in.

34

Why Not Try CCIE Braindump? If you are looking for ways to get more CCIE information to prep you up for the looming certification day, the CCIE braindump is one good alternative you should not miss out on. The CCIE braindump will provide you with a very comprehensive form of CCIE training to make sure you are well prepared to face your exam certification day. The CCIE braindump does this because it can actually provide you with an exclusive actual look at what the CCIE test material is like. Study guides concerning the CCIE will be provided through CCIE braindump. In effect, you no longer have to spend countless hours trying to remember everything. You only need to focus on what the study guides have as its contents. These study guides also come with their own CCIE notes to make focus easier for test takers. Everything is easily downloadable because a CCIE braindump can be freely accessed through the internet. As a result, you can print it out and take it with you for purposes of reviewing wherever and whenever it is most convenient for you. If you wanted to make sure that you get that CCIE certificate in the bag, you should definitely check out various CCIE braindumps accessible online. Apart from being effective, these braindumps are also more cost efficient as compared to old forms of review materials. Moreover, some CCIE braindump materials are also being combined with CCIE boot camps for better utilization. As a result, the person becomes ready in both the written and lab part of the certification exams.

35

The Ease That CCIE CBT Brings Training camps have acknowledged the fact that busy people will not have the usual luxury of attending session personally. This is the reason why CCIE CBT has become a very popular medium in preparation for the prestigious CCIE certification exams. CCIE CBT is a very efficient means of reaching out to individuals who wanted to make all necessary preparations prior to their examination day. Even if they have busy working schedules to still be mindful of. CCIE CBT is also duly recognized by various accreditation departments. They are also acknowledged by Cisco, the company responsible for the whole roster of Cisco Programs Certificates. These CBTs are really more efficient in nature because it saves up on time and effort. Professionals can freely access them whenever it is most convenient for them. Even if they are out on a business trip, within just a few clicks and by just connecting to the internet they can already access these CBT websites. Also, IT certification exams are of course technical based and sometimes hold lab based exams to gauge total IT capacity. CCIE CBT makes these things easier to face because it is computer based and can therefore easily simulate how actual lab tests can occur. In addition, learning modules are more interactive and easier to understand because CCIE CBT notes and references come in multimedia packets. Individuals can easily understand them regardless if they involve complex looking diagrams and tables. The technical nature of the entire CCIE exams can be made easier and lighter to digest by means of the CCIE CBT.

36

The Essence of CCIE Cert IT certifications are deemed of high importance by lots of individuals especially those who are within the field of IT. Among the certification programs being offered, the CCIE cert remains to be one of the best and one among which many hopefuls wish to achieve. This is because the exams of CCIE cert are really difficult in nature. Because of this, only those who have gained enough expertise on the matter are expected to finally decide to get a CCIE cert. Taking the CCIE cert is one big decision to make because one really has to prepare for it in order to become successful. One may ask however, what is it with the CCIE cert that makes it that difficult to take? CCIE actually is an advanced program developed by Cisco. There are different sublevels of the Cisco program which are duly divided according to each specialization. The Cisco program mainly tackles on information technological needs pertaining to network systems and how interfaces can be made to work within each other. The Cisco program becomes more complex as it programs in both function and scope. Above it all, CCIE is seen as the topmost spot which supervises all other programs pertaining to Cisco operations. This is the reason why CCIE cert are much coveted and really a product of a hard work. Those who really have the passion for Cisco will find themselves half successful already since they would likely be up for the challenge. The CCIE cert is definitely all worth it in terms of what happens next to an IT professional s career.

37

CCIE Certification: The Real Deal If you wanted to boost your IT professional career, taking the CCIE certification is one of the best ways to do so. The CCIE is also known as Cisco Certified Internetwork Engineer and it is considered to be the highest form of accreditation being issued within the roster of Cisco certifications. Having a CCIE certification means you have all the knowledge covered when it comes to fully maximizing and utilizing the whole Cisco program. Getting a CCIE certification is like getting the pot of gold at a rainbow s end. It is such a privilege which only a few are able to achieve. This is mainly because the certification itself involves an intensive procedure which demands dedicated preparation. Even experienced professionals who wanted to take the CCIE certification still find themselves in dire need of a CCIE preparation program to ensure their certification success. This remains to be the case although taking the CCIE certification requires no definite requirements before you become eligible to take it. The CCIE certification process itself will help you judge how capable you actually are to take it. Moreover, the CCIE certification is not just one whole solid topic which is chopped up in the exam. The CCIE certification is actually composed of different versions which all have their very own subcategories. These versions are Routing and Switching (also dubbed as R&S), Service Provider (SP), Voice, Storage Networking, and Security. Regardless of which version is chosen for the individual s specialization, all CCIE certification exams require a written and a lab based exam which must both be passed upon taking.

38

The Prestige of CCIE Certification The highest form of certification being offered by Cisco is CCIE. Also known as Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, the CCIE is one of the hardest certifications to achieve. It covers almost the entire scope of Cisco operations and all aspects of knowledge are tested prior to certification. CCIE certifications are composed of two different exams. The first one is accomplished like the typical written exam. It also comes in multiple choice formats and aims to gauge theoretical and technical knowledge of the test taker. The other test comes in the form of a lab simulation exam. In here, the efficiency of the test taker in terms of troubleshooting and Cisco skills are being tested. CCIE certifications have no definite strict requirements. It does not demand so much from the people who wish to take it in terms of the requirements needed to accomplish first. all you need to do is sign up for the exams and pay the necessary fees if any. What people should be concerned with are the exam preparations to be taken. Because CCIE certifications are proven to be difficult, even CCIE boot camps have grown in proliferation to help people prepare for the said certification. Moreover, test takers should pass the written exams first. Only then would they be qualified to proceed with the next type of exam which comes in the form of a lab based exam. It entails a progressive mode of how the entire CCIE program is plotted out to ensure that only those who deserve them will eventually have the CCIE certifications.

39

Benefits of Being CCIE Certified Every IT professional knows the value of certifications. The IT field is a highly technical type of environment because it involves a vast complex structure of systems which cannot just be operated by mere common sense alone. If one wishes to be successful in the field of Information Technology, he must be prepared to understand its every nook and cranny. Businesses worldwide understand the importance of certifications in IT, especially those who greatly rely on various computer programs in order to operate and profit. The roster of Cisco systems is one among the most trusted and widely used IT structure in various businesses sectors. Whether operating on a large scale or small term basis, businesses have such high regard for the Cisco systems and in effect acknowledge the proficiency of IT professionals who can supervise Cisco programs. But because Cisco is ever changing and is very complex to handle, only those who are CCIE certified are often given high priority when it comes to job vacancies. CCIE certified professionals put themselves way ahead of the job hunting competition because big companies know just how much effort and time is placed just for a person to become CCIE certified. So more than just success and a piece of paper to ascertain that one is CCIE certified, the said success can also pave the way for a sure advancement in terms of an IT career being pursued. Recruiters know the value of being CCIE certified and they will easily consider a resume with such achievement.

40

How To Make The Most Out of a CCIE Class Enrolling in a CCIE class can hold a lot of benefits for you, especially since there will be seasoned professionals who lead the entire group. There are many CCIE classes you can enroll in in different parts of the country, and the trick is to find out which one is nearest you. But no matter how near or how far certain classes are, they all run under general principles and operate under fairly predictable routines. A CCIE class will usually have two seasoned experts leading everyone for a highly intense course that usually lasts for twelve days. Often called a boot camp, the CCIE class combines the highly detailed and well-structured lessons of topics such as Advanced Technologies Routing and Switching along with the realistic yet somewhat difficult CCIE Mock Laboratory Workshop. Here, students will usually spend an average of twelve hours each day in intense study as they learn all about and apply the different handson techniques when it comes to working with laboratory equipment, making them far better and taking them one step further in becoming a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. The different candidates of the class will then take their laboratory exam after two whole months of full study. The class will also be able to help many Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert candidates who may have already taken the actual Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert laboratory exam but did not pass and were required or recommended to go back to school and learn more about the advanced as well as the structured approach to the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. Laboratory Strategy. These candidates will find that the class will help enhance their knowledge as well as understanding of the topics at hand.

41

Always to Your Advantage: Enroll in CCIE Classes Now! If you have the simple goal of obtaining your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert number and certification, you will need to attend several Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert classes to help you become a much more deserving candidate of the certification. There are many classes available online and in real classroom, all having excellent products as well as services that will help you pass the CCIE exam about Routing and Switching. A tip that you can really use? When shopping around for Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert classes, do take a look at the numbers. More often than not, the classes or organizations with the biggest numbers of enrollees usually have the highest passing rate of all (since the numbers will indicate that particular company or organization's popularity). All across the United States, Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert classes are available to help you get your studying done so you can pass the test. The advantage of taking a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert class is you will be privy to information that can only be shared by the seasoned experts in thee field of Cisco who will naturally lead your class as well. Most classes or boot camps run for around ten to twelve days and will have you engaging in a highly intensive combination of Advanced Technologies Routing and Switching and Mock Laboratory Workshops in CCIE difficult to an extent, but worth it when you really get to apply the learning you make in class. Indeed, Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert classes can truly help you make the cut and become a certified Cisco Professional.

42

The Easiest Way to Finish A CCIE Course If you are determined to get your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert Certification but you really cannot find enough time to actually sit through a complete round of training sessions or you are the type of learner who learns best at his or her own pace, you might want to consider going for a CCIE course that has a ClassOn-Demand format. When you purchase the products that come from such a format, you then become very free to work at your own personal pace. Such Class-On-Demand products are items that have been recorded in the past and then made easily available to you so you can pick it up, go through it and study on your own preferred time. If you use these products, you will then have only your own predetermined schedule to follow, your own set of deadlines to meet and you can even save time and money by doing all of these in the comfort and safety of your own home! This gives even the busiest person an opportunity to get their CCIE Certification. There are some requirements needed should you will be working with your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification. Class on demand will of course mean a good Internet connection that is either a PC or a Macintosh computer that also has speakers. You may choose to log in your personal account anytime twenty four hours a day for you to view and learn the entire material in a class on demand format - which really is the easiest way to study!

43

Important Considerations in the CCIE Exams Passing your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert Exam can be a difficult thing, but only if you have no clue as to how the entire thing goes. While studying for the content of the exam will surely do a lot of wonder to help you get a good grade on it, you also have to know about the nature of the exam itself. That way, you will be able to figure out your best approach and save time when you actually take the actual test itself. The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert exam has a written exam component that is based on a computer. This type of exam is timed for a maximum of only two hours and has a run down of multiple-choice questions. You can take this exam in one of the hundreds of the authorized testing centers that can be found all around the world. Of course, passing the written exam is only winning the battle. To be able to win the war, you will need to pass the laboratory exam as well. After passing your written exam, you will then be eligible to make a schedule for the lab exam. Paying and scheduling your exams can easily be done online through a test delivery partner. You will need to take note of your correct exam number in order to register for such. At the same time, remember to use the same candidate identification number to make sure that the results of your exam will appear in your own Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert profile.

44

CCIE Forums A Great Way to find Solutions to Cisco Matters If you are in dire need of help when it comes to Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification, the best thing that you can do is to turn to a CCIE forum on the Internet to help you with whatever Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert solution you might need. Forums are a great way to accomplish different types of tasks that are related to Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. If you want to get the latest tips about the solutions that work with your type of job, a forum will have its own dedicated thread to help you easily browse through the contents and find the ones that will be applicable to your tasks. These tips have been tried and tested by the other forum users themselves, so they are guaranteed to be successful to an extent. A forum on Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert can also be a great way for you to practice your teaching or instructional skills in Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. There are many people asking for advice when it comes to Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, so if you think you are in a good position to explain a solution to the problem, by all means do so! This will challenge your ability to simplify things and being able to explain complicated matters in simpler terms, not to mention being able to help a fellow Cisco expert in need. And if you are currently out of a job or perhaps looking for greener pastures, these forums are a great way to find out about the different jobs that are currently open for Cisco practitioners. Keep in mind that many Cisco recruitment specialists hang out in such forums, taking note of exceptional forum posters and are quick to offer them a job that may be too good to resist!

45

Setting Up A CCIE Home lab? Start off With Routers A Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert home lab is something that will need some explaining if you are novice who intends to have this kind of set up as a way to complete your work. There are good ways to go about setting up a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert home lab and the best equipment will surely help you do your work in half the time it might take! When it comes to the equipment you need to use, this will vary depending on your certification. If you are looking at pure Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, you might need a whole lot more compared to other types of certification. But of course, there are similarities for all the lab equipment, and you would best be getting on the most general list of the major types of products that are required for the entire range of certifications in Cisco. Because Cisco has grown to become known as being a routing company, routers are then touted as the core component of all the laboratory certifications. Even those that are not part of the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert sector will require some testing of your routing skills. To stress it even more, almost all products of Cisco will require your home lab to have some type of routing capability, like getting three layer switches that will be able to perform both routing and switching. You will also see an advanced dynamic routing type of protocol that is a form of support for products like the PIX Firewall of Cisco or even the VPN Concentrator.

46

CCIE: Creating Impact All Over the World Globalization is certainly at hand right now, and while many businesses are still trying to find better ways to cope with the change and manipulate things to create better outcomes for their companies, one certain way of getting this done is to stay competitive and consistently check up on the system to produce high quality outputs. One good way of achieving this is to apply Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert or Cisco in the organizational system. CCIE in the world is fast being accepted as the change that will truly make things happen. In a highly connected world of business such as this, our usual focus is on monitoring market transitions as well as relying heavily on keeping our businesses in a stable balance. By this, the focus on maintaining such a balance across a dozen or more product areas, plus customer segments in major developed as well as emerging countries must be taken into consideration. If any of these segments are challenged, there will then be a domino effect that creates momentum in the other sectors. CCIE will make sure to prevent this effect or make the required solutions to offset the negative consequences. Much attention has recently been focused on how globalization impacts the developing nations. As a form of example, Cisco has recently opened a campus in the city of Bangalore as a way to create additional investments in China. Even other nations are affected by this, as Europe, the United States and Japan are also nations that transact with China and will have their businesses impacted by the presence of a Cisco school in their country.

47

CCIE Jobs Challenging and Rewarding at the Same Time! Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert jobs can be very fulfilling if you know how to get around the workplaces that value your worth. According to different sources, the average annual salary of a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert ranges from around a hundred thousand to a hundred and twenty thousand US dollars per annum. So when it comes to financial security, you are pretty much in for a cushy job but only if you know how to do your work and do it good. Once you get your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert Certification you will certainly be open to a multitude of job prospects in different industries. In some instances, you do not even have to do anything and simply wait for the Cisco headhunters to find you and make you an attractive offer. But as previously mentioned, you will need the required training and experience that will show your prospective employers your in-depth understanding of all the topics that fall under the exam blueprints of Cisco. If you want to be at the top of the salary range for Cisco, you will probably need a minimum of seven years on the job (as well as an in depth understanding of how the principles of networking infrastructure work) to garner the respect and accolade that is given for senior executives who can command almost any salary they wish. Furthermore, part of your job as a CCIE expert will require you to protect the assets and the monitor and ensure that operations remain seamless through and through.

48

Getting Started with Lab Equipment in CCIE If you will be working with Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, you will need some lab equipment in order to do your work. Many labs of Cisco will usually have a time constraint of around eight hours and a hundred points weight on a scale, eighty of which you will need to pass should you wish to be at the helm and run your own Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert lab. The laboratory has been designed in such a way that it will challenge you in the different areas that you will encounter after coming off from the actual exam itself. Each lab has a distinct theme that will enhance your learning of Cisco Certified Internetwork Experts and its corresponding sub themes such as RIP V2 or Routing Information Protocol. Many lab equipment also have BGP and DLSw+ operations, even Voice, but learning about Routing Information Protocol will certainly get you some extra laurels on your wreath. To be able to run your laboratory, you will need different types of hardware and software components in order to begin Lab 1. For this, eight routers that are loaded with Cisco IOS Software are required, along with an enterprise image. Lucky for you, there are plenty of 2500 as well as 2600 type of routers readily available for you to be able to use in your laboratory. These routers are also Internet Explorer ready, so that certainly is good news to have one less manual configuration which you need to figure out on your own.

49

Timely Tips for CCIE Lab Exams Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert lab exams may be a bit difficult, but if you have some really good tips you will be able to find the exam easy and score really well on it too. First thing you need to do is to manage your time well. For this, you need to plan a way to cover all of the sections that are part of the entire timing. Figure out how much time you will need to spend on each of the sections. Also keep in mind that the questions have their own point values, so work on those that have high point values carefully. When you finish the test and you still have some time left, try to go over your answers and see which ones need to be corrected. Next, you have to clarify the specific requirements of the questions. Do not simply assume that the requirements are not mentioned in any of the questions. When doing the lab exam, always ask your proctor to get a little more perspective. Tackle each question as a separate unit. Try to configure as well as verify before you move on to the next. To help you out with this, you have to option to redraw the topology using all the other available details that were given. This is a great way to visualize and map out the entire network. If you follow these simple but effective tips, you will be guaranteed to have a much better score in your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert lab exam. Who knows, you might even be a top notcher!

50

What s In Store for You In CCIE Lab Rentals Lab rentals are the way to go in Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, especially when you need to study for your lab exam or if you want to practice it outside of your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert workplace. Most lab rental units are fully prewired and are ready to use. Many online rack rental services have all the equipment you might ever need to do the different tasks such as ccbootcamp, NMC, IPexpert, DOiT, fatkid, INternetwork Expert and so much more. Some lab rental services even have all in one and homegrown units that will truly help you prepare for the first day of your Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert practical examination. Their rack rental rates are priced competitively and are usually bundled with ultra flexible time slots that will allow you to meet your needs. Some budget bundles include high-end routers that have 128MB Ram as well as a 48MB Flash in order to support the latest IOS of 12.4. Most rental services will also recommend their racks for working lab duties in Internetwork Expert and IPexpert. If you are looking for custom racks with a home grown feel, these customizable scenarios are just for you. A quick look into the racks will find you staring at fourteen types of routers and switches, all with 12.4 IOS, a relay switch with twelve port frames, dozens of DCE and DTE high speed connections and dual switches for Cisco Catalyst 3560. You can even ask for a special request LS1010 ATM switch and a corresponding ATM port if you wish!

51

Consider Getting Into CCIE Labs The CCIE exams are very demanding. Becoming CCIE certified really does entail a good amount of preparations before one becomes successful with the program. It for this main reason that IT professionals who finally decide to become CCIE certified consider all things which can make it possible for them to be successful in the said career decision. The CCIE certification is indeed achieved only by those who work hard to earn it. The CCIE exam is not just made up of a typical exam written in paper. It involves two different forms of exams. The first one corresponds to a typical exam setup. This consists of a written exam done in multiple choice format. But the exam is highly technical so one really needs to review for it to make sure that errors are kept minimal if not none. The other type of the CCIE exam is known as the lab exam. In here, test takers are taken into a Cisco lab where their actual capacity in operating the Cisco systems will be gauged accordingly. It is because of the lab exams that CCIE labs have become popular. These CCIE labs are lab exams simulations which help test takers prepare prior to the actual one. These CCIE labs are often a part of the review program taken by test takers who wanted to prepare for the test itself in a very detailed way. CCIE labs are comprehensive and details because they include all aspects of the Cisco program and the sub-specialties of the CCIE certification itself.

52

Expert Advice for CCIE Lab Training CCIE Lab training is important if you want to be able to be a leader in this field. If you are looking for additional training, you can find many of these readily available on the Internet. There are different types of training packages for Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert subtopics such as routing and switching, service provider tracks and security. These are specific product bundles that have been especially chosen by leaders and seasoned professionals in the field of Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert to help complement the foundation you already have in Cisco and as a way to add value to your money (since these pre-chosen bundles are highly applicable and were measured to be highly valuable in the workplace). Because there are different types of products, you might want to look at the overview of each product type before choosing one to your liking. If you wish to avail of a package, you may even get the lab training at a discounted rate. This way, you get to have solid lab training while creating large savings in the process. The Instructor lead option is also available for candidates who want a more interactive approach to their Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert lab training. This type of approach includes a lot of live training sessions as well as recording and study workbooks to practice on. Many classes are also available via the online classroom training, which can also be easily upgraded to the live classes option in the many training facilities in different states across the United States.

53

Useful Tips For Prospective CCIE Lab Workbook Purchasers The lab workbooks that many would-be practitioners would use contains the CCIE R&S Proctor Guide which includes extensive walk-through and instructions that may be helpful in guiding you through possible lab scenarios. This useful guide is a definite partner for the workbook! The first few laboratory workbooks will be able to provide the user with enough guidance so as to understand how certain tasks are configured and what kinds of particular outcomes could arise as a result of choosing an alternative method. The more intermediate levels of the workbook will give-out less instructions and will be less of a guide and more of an application program where you will need to apply everything that you have learned in the previous phase of the guide in order to acquire the solutions. There are very minimal technical tips that will be given-out, but they are labeled as Pretoria Assistance tips. Clues on possible scenarios given by the proctor however, will be given out, but will not be of hands-on nature. The Learning by doing method provided by IP experts provides you with supreme preparation, which ensures that by using this product, your expectations are sure to be met! Such a method will enable clients to attain success through the products. That is why through forty different lab scenarios, with each scenario rewritten in order to match the latest CCIE R&S blueprints and objectives, you are guaranteed attainability for enough information covering every aspect of the CCIE Lab exam. Content is strictly revised as found within each current hardware and IOS in order to keep it up-to-date as much as possible.

54

The CCIE List of Readings It is a fact that the CCIE lab exam will be a very difficult test for persons who are aspiring to be CCIEs, but with the aid of books which serve the purpose of guiding the user through the backbone of the exam, success will be much easier to attain. CCIE Routing and Switching Official Exam Certification Guide (2nd Edition) will most likely be used solely for the CCIE written preparation. Research shows that this book definitely serves its purpose for its users. A new edition of the same book has already been published. It contains information regarding the CCIE exam. It also provides the user with more sections which focus on preparation for the CCIE exam, compared the previews 1st and 2nd editions of the book. This latest edition is entitled, CCIE Routing and Switching Official Exam Certification Guide (3rd Edition). So it is evident that you may want to get the 3rd edition over the 2nd edition since it contains more up-to-date information. The CCIE Routing and Switching Exam Quick Reference Sheets will provide you with lists of information concerning topics found on the written blueprint of CCIE. The lists however, provide minimal explanations and will only serve as a tool used for review. You might opt to use it as a last check-up review test before taking the actual written exam. The Cisco Doc CD Documents provide documentations provided by Cisco. Even though books provide great support for technical overviews and provides foundation, they may still lack details which are required to enable you to function as if you are already leveled as a CCIE level. Customer ratings in shops on the World Wide Web show that CCIE readings usually serve the purpose of being a technical reference.

55

Some Important Notes Regarding the CCIE Exam A lot of people question if it is really hard to pass the CCIE exam. Here is a typical answer which that question asks for: the test itself is very difficult. It is only practical that if you are able to have access multiple Cisco routers, you use them to aid you in training for the CCIE practical test. If you are unfortunate enough to have only about 5-6 of these routers, then it is almost inevitable that you will have a very difficult time trying to complete the practical test. The test would prove to be rather easy if you had five whole days allotted for you to complete it, but that is not the case. You will only have 2 whole days to complete it. There are not many CCIEs who were able to pass the test by only learning from a single book. A number of them applied a lot of what they learned based on previous hands-on experience. Without being able to work hands on with actual configuration of routers and troubleshooting, it will not be possible for anyone to pass the CCIE exam. Many training labs accept and train people for the CCIE lab exam. Some of these people spend 3 years gaining experience working with Cisco routers while also spending time networking, and then they allot another whole year extensively reviewing for the actual CCIE Lab Exam. It is fairly possible to pass the CCIE Theory Exam without studying, but a lot of people find themselves failing the CCIE Lab Exam and only being able to pass it on their second attempt. A good advice is to not get stressed at all. It is important to concentrate and to treat the exam as if it is just a review training exercise. Past generations who took the CCIE had it tougher since they did not have books that serve the purpose of helping the user review for the CCIE exam. Some of them resorted to materials such

56

as existing Cisco web sites to aid them in their review. The bottom line however, is that the most effective form of preparation for the CCIE exam is studying hard.

57

CCIE Number: The Mark of an IT Expert A CCIE number is awarded to those who successfully pass the two stage CCIE certification. CCIE or the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert is considered as the toughest certification program in the IT industry. It consists of a rigorous written exam and an equally difficult lab examination. Not all Cisco certified professionals can hurdle the CCIE stage. IT professionals who hold a CCIE number is regarded as a doctorate degree holder in information technology. CCIE numbering started in 1993 when the CCIE exam and certification was rolled out in the market. It started with CCIE number 1024 and more CCIE numbers have been awarded since then. As of February 2008, CCIE numbers reached the 20000 mark. This shows that only about nineteen thousand IT experts throughout the world are holding a CCIE number which is very small compared to millions of individuals who hold an IT degree. It is a concrete indication that the CCIE certification is the most difficult IT qualification that can be earned. Anyone who holds a CCIE number belongs to the cream of the crop of the IT industry. The first CCIE number, 1024, was given to the original laboratory where the CCIE exams are conducted. It served as a plaque of honor for the first CCIE lab. CCIE number 1025 was given to Stuart Biggs, who was the developer of the first CCIE written examination and the first CCIE laboratory examination. CCIE number 1026 was earned by Terry Slattery who was a consultant of CISCO when the CCIE written and lab exams were being created at Cisco. Slattery was also the first certified CCIE IT expert outside of the Cisco Corporation.

58

CCIE Online Training: How to Find Excellent CCIE Training Center The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification is the highest professional IT certification provided by Cisco Systems Incorporated. THE CCIE written and laboratory examinations are the most difficult exam given to aspiring IT experts. To successfully pass the CCIE exams, it is highly recommended that the IT professional should first undergo intensive trainings, studies, and lab exam simulations. For those CCIE aspirants who do not have enough time for on-site training or boot camp, the CCIE online training is ideal for them. CCIE online training provides convenience and time flexibility for IT professionals preparing for the CCIE exams. There are lots of CCIE online training centers that offer quality and updated training programs. For best results however, IT professionals are advised to visit the Cisco Systems website. One can find important recommendations there on where to find accredited CCIE online training centers. Cisco also suggests vital study materials, references, online resources and examination guides for the CCIE exams. These are critical preparation kits that an IT professional should have in order to succeed in CCIE certification exams. The best CCIE online training should have a two-stage CCIE preparations program. The first stage must focus on the written exam. It should incorporate all the vital information, concepts and applications about IT networks and engineering. The training center must also provide online coaching and tutoring as well as materials that can be studied at home. The second stage of training must sharpen the abilities of trainees to solve practical networking problems. A lab exam simulation is a must for this stage.

59

CCIE Pay: The Rewards of Becoming an IT Expert The CCIE pay rate is considered as the highest compared to other IT professionals who hold certifications for other systems. A Cisco certified CCIE can command an annual salary that could reach six digits. That s for the senior level professionals who hold a CCIE. For middle level IT professionals who have CCIE certification, the pay rate would still be enormous; salaries would run between $75,000 to $90,000 USD. That is why more IT professional are trying to barge into the elite circle of Cisco certifications, specifically the CCIE certification. However, not everybody who takes the CCIE examinations could clear it. Even the most hardened IT experts find the CCIE, especially the lab exams, difficult to pass. Some even took three or four attempts and lots of written exam retakes before clearing the lab examination. The trainings, preparations, and exam retakes would need considerable investments in time, money, and effort. But if a CCIE certification has been secured, it would definitely result to considerable increase in salaries and benefits. A job promotion could also be possible not to mention the prestige and honor of belonging to the most elite circle of IT experts. To become a CCIE certified professional, one needs to undergo months of trainings and studies. Trainings should involve preparations for the CCIE written and lab exams. The CCIE written exams is a multi-choice and fill in the blanks test. The lab exam involves actual hands-on test on different networking skills. CCIE lab exam will also require examinees to solve actual trouble shooting problems. Preparing for these tests and actual hands-on experience are critical for successfully passing the CCIE exams.

60

CCIE Plaque: The Coveted Badge of Honor A CCIE plaque is given to successful passers of CCIE examinations. It is an official recognition for being a certified internetworking expert. Through the years, the design of the official CCIE plaque has changed but the essence of the award remains the same. In fact, some believed that the CCIE certification exams have become more difficult. That is why getting certified by Cisco and receiving a CCIE plaque are considered major milestone in the career of an IT professional. The CCIE certification is provided by Cisco Systems Corporation. It is the toughest credentialing examination on the IT industry today. CCIE certified professionals are considered gurus of the IT industry. They occupy critical positions in the IT environments of companies worldwide. The salary and pay grades of IT experts holding CCIE certification is considered as the highest in the IT industry. To clinch a CCIE certification, IT professionals must pass a two-stage examination. The first is a written exam and the most difficult stage is the two-day lab exam. The examinee is given the chance to take the lab exam 18 months after successfully passing the written exam. If one fails on the first take of the lab exam, Cisco would allow the aspirant to try a second attempt. If the examinee succeeds, the CCIE plaque will be sent to the registered address provided by the examinee. If on the other hand the second attempt is a failure, Cisco would demand a retake of the written exam before taking further laboratory examinations.

61

CCIE Practical Studies: A Thousand-page Resource for IT Experts The CCIE Practical Studies is a self-study book published by the Cisco Press. It is part of the recommended core materials needed by IT professionals preparing for the CCIE certification exams. The CCIE Practical Studies offers a rich elaboration of the different hands-on techniques and methods for the CCIE network security exams. The book offers two distinct benefits. First, CCIE Practical Studies prepares IT professionals who will take the twoday CCIE lab exam. Second, the book is an excellent instruction material to understand the concepts and applications of network security and operations. By studying the CCIE Practical Studies, IT professionals could learn how to pass CCIE exams and know the details of IT network deployment and security. The 1000-page publication contains important and critical details about the intricacies of network and routing technologies. It has comprehensive discussions on the different protocols and switching techniques being used by numerous network applications. Readers will be guided on how to install, deploy, configure and troubleshoot different networking systems. Issues and problems are also provided together with the corresponding techniques and methodologies of solving most Internetworking glitches. Having the CCIE Practical Studies will thoroughly guide IT professionals on the steps to successfully pass CCIE lab exam. This is made possible by the different simulation techniques that the reader could create. The network simulations conform to typical problems that will be presented during CCIE lab exam. Securing a copy of CCIE Practical Studies is a must for IT professionals preparing for the CCIE lab examinations.

62

CCIE Practice is Key to CCIE Certification Success The CCIE exam for certification is the highest form of Cisco accreditation. As such, only those who are known to be IT professionals with extensive knowledge as well as experience in Cisco programs are expected to take it. Nobody can ever say how much success rate they have when it comes to taking the CCIE certification program. Although there s not much requirements to be met prior to taking the said certification, the screening process which evaluates an individual prior to being certified is enough to trim down the aspirants. CCIE practice is indeed key to becoming CCIE certified. This is because there are two different hurdles which must be overcome before a person gets the most coveted CCIE certification. CCIE practice also comes in two different ways: by means of undergoing CCIE practice exams and submitting oneself into CCIE labs for simulation procedures. These two different types of CCIE practice corresponds to the CCIE exam procedures itself. The CCIE certification consists of two different types of exam. One exam is in written format which is presented as a multiple choice type of exam. This aims to gauge the expertise of the person in terms of technical and theoretical knowledge. However, operating the Cisco program is not just based on what the mind knows but what the IT professional is also actually capable of. This is why lab based exams are also being done prior to becoming CCIE certified. This two different exams are also the reasons why people submit themselves for into a boot camp program to gain the total CCIE practice.

63

CCIE Prep Kits: Essential Tools for Passing the CCIE Exams CCIE prep kits are very valuable resource materials for those who wish to pass both the CCIE written exam and CCIE lab exam. The prep kits may include reading materials that could be studied at home. Manuals and instructional guides on several IT network protocols and infrastructures are also provided in some CCIE prep kits. These will familiarize CCIE trainees on the different concepts and methods of Internetworking as well as the application of voice technology to most network architectures. CCIE prep kits and manuals can be made available by some online training centers specializing in CCIE curriculums. Trainees could find these training institutions through the Cisco network of accredited training centers. It is better to get proper training from an accredited institution in order to take advantage of updated study materials and lab simulation methods. IT professionals should consider that the CCIE certification exams are the most demanding IT qualifications tests. It will definitely require not just simple self-study and memorization techniques. Actual and hands-on experience on IT network solutions would give aspiring CCIEs a definite advantage during laboratory exams. However, it is equally important to have a multitude of CCIE prep kits in order to train and prepare for the two-stage CCIE exams. Passing the CCIE written exam is a prerequisite for taking the lab examinations. Prep kits would be useful for written exam preparations. But the most valued benefit of CCIE prep kits come from the workbooks and problem solving exercises manuals. This will sharpen the skills of trainees in solving actual CCIE lab exam problems.

64

3 Foolproof CCIE Preparation Tips Before getting a CCIE certification, IT professionals must overcome two arduous examinations. The first is a set of multiple choice exams with a sprinkling of fill in the blank questions. This is the written part of the CCIE qualification exam. The second part of CCIE qualification test is the dreaded two-day lab exam. It is the most difficult examination so far given to IT professionals seeking a reputable certification. Some veteran IT professionals took several attempts before passing the CCIE lab exam. It goes without saying that a thorough CCIE preparation is necessary in order to successfully hurdle the qualification exams of Cisco Systems. Proper CCIE preparation should consist of three exam prep methods. First is the theoretical preparation. This may involve attending refresher courses on network management, security, and deployment. A high dose of self-study is also necessary. To do this, aspiring CCIE must acquire updated books, references, and networking manuals. The second CCIE preparation method is through simulations both for the exams and actual Internetworking architectures. Some training centers provide lab facilities that mimic the ones used on CCIE lab exam. Other IT professionals invest on creating their own lab to practice on actual implementation of different network protocols. After successfully passing the exams, they usually sell these miniature network labs to other aspiring CCIE. The third part of CCIE preparation is through actual handson experience. The CCIE exam is notoriously biased against paper IT professionals. Those without hands-on experience on different IT environments will surely fail the lab exam. So it would be best to prepare for the exam by getting first hand experience on existing corporate IT environments and network infrastructures.

65

Familiarize Yourself with CCIE Questions If you are on your way to taking the CCIE certification, you know that persistent preparation in all aspects is needed. After all, the CCIE certification is not considered an expert level of certification without good basis. Only those who are known to be successful in their respective IT careers are expected to finally decide to take it. As such, you will of course see yourself battling it out with prominent people when it comes to taking the CCIE certification exams. So apart from just the preparatory materials, it is also good that you have knowledge of what you ll expect from the CCIE questions itself. The CCIE certification exams are actually composed of two different types the written and the lab based exam. The lab based exam is something that you can only prepare for as much as you can. When you are already there, nerves may get the best out of you which is why constant practice in CCIE simulated labs are often recommended. As for the written exams, you actually have better chances of acing this because this is your typical pen and paper type of test. Add the fact that it is in multiple choice form, you certainly have better chances in this one. This is why CCIE questions come in handy in terms of their general topics. CCIE questions are usually based from network fundamentals, internet protocols, Cisco-specific technology, and bridge and router technology. These are topics wherein CCIE questions would most likely be all about. It would be best if your brush up on these topics.

66

The Scope of CCIE R&S The CCIE certification exams are composed of different subspecialties. This is because the CCIE is the most privileged form of certification because of the scope it covers. As such, it would really be hard for anyone to develop an intensive knowledge of Cisco. To make matters easier for test takers, the CCIE has been further divided to subspecialties to correspond to the person s preferences. One of the popular categories of CCIE is the CCIE R&S. The R&S in this category also stand for Routing and Switching. The main purpose of R&S is to provide a network an expert level understanding of how networking can be maximized by means of working across different interfaces of WAN and LAN procedures. It also makes use of various routers and relevant switches throughout the whole process. Those who are CCIE R&S respectively are expected to be able to troubleshoot complex problems involving vast connectivity systems. Being certified in CCIE R&S makes an individual responsible for maximizing bandwidth in the system as well as supporting the global applications of the entire system. In case various problems should arise, a timely response can be given. Apart from Cisco-hosted maintenance, CCIE R&S also helps perform necessary upgrades and installations related to the entire network connections. If one wishes to undergo a certification especially geared towards CCIE R&S, necessary preparations both theoretically and in actual performance must be done. Sometimes, networks may not always follow in accordance to what written manuals and guides may say. Networks and connectivity problems may still arise unexpectedly. As such, CCIE R&S also requires creativity and being able to troubleshoot across all types of problems.

67

Success with CCIE Rack Training Practice really makes perfect. Though these words are very common, they still tell something about patience and humility. Even in taking Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification needs lots of trainings and experiences. When speaking about CCIE practice or training, what becomes a common way to do it is to have CCIE rack and learn from using it. It is true that Cisco do not require experience before taking the CCIE exam. But the exam provider and almost all CCIE certified individuals have recommended having experience taking one of the most difficult exams in the IT world and one of the most expensive. Having CCIE rack and training with that hardware device is one of the most effective ways in getting hands-on the Cisco Internetworking. If one would get the exam without being trained with CCIE rack, he would probably lost thousands of dollars. Not only that, time, effort, and travel will all be useless if one fails this. At least $315 is needed per attempt in taking the written CCIE exam while the lab exam costs about $1,400 per attempt. Allin-all expenses of one candidate for CCIE certification attempt is $9,050 on the average. Moreover, there is also travel expenses needed for this exam since there are only few Cisco laboratories that offers examination worldwide like in Beijing, Dubai, Brussels, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo, Tokyo, and Sydney. As always advised, it is always better to join a battle prepared. Since the lab exam is the more expensive and more difficult CCIE exam, having CCIE rack is the best way to ensure a passing rate. If one cannot afford to buy his own CCIE rack, he can just rent

68

one. There are websites that provide CCIE rack renter on per-hour rate.

69

CCIE Rack Rental: Providing Convenient CCIE Lab Exam Training CCIE rack rental is a popular online training method for those preparing for the CCIE lab exam. Network simulations and actual hands-on practice on the Cisco networking system will be provided by CCIE rack rental vendors. These are web based training and practice sessions and trainees can book schedules for as short as one hour. CCIE rack rental technology offers a low-cost and convenient method in improving the network skills and performance of aspiring CCIE. This type of simulated Internetworking practice is inspired by on-demand remote hosting applications technology. IT professionals can experience actual and hands-on network performance through virtual IT environments hosted on remote servers. The user will have to buy block time schedules for their CCIE rack sessions. Usually, vendors provide sessions in increment of 1 hour. Booking to these CCIE simulations can be done via online payment methods and scheduling. CCIE rack rental can reduce the cost of CCIE training. Trainees can also run simulations based on their time limitations or schedules. CCIE rack rentals also use actual Cisco Internetworking technologies to give its clients a first hand view of the different networking solutions, routing techniques and network applications. CCIE rack rentals provide valuable insights to several networking issues. The experience acquired through the simulated sessions could be very valuable during the CCIE lab examinations. For IT professionals wishing to pass the CCIE lab exam, they must spend innumerable hours practicing on virtual networks provided by CCIE rack rental providers. The skills and knowledge

70

earned through this method could mean success or failure in the CCIE certification exams.

71

CCIE Routing & Switching Exam: Requirements for Successfully Passing the CCIE Lab Exam The CCIE routing & switching exam determines the technical capabilities of IT professionals in providing network solutions for different LAN and WAN environments. It also tests the abilities of examinees in using different switching technologies existing in most IT environments and architectures. Proficiency in Cisco systems routing and switches shows that the CCIE examinee has ample technical know-how in the deployment, management, and maintenance of Internetworking architectures. The CCIE routing and switching lab exam is a laborious 8hour hands-on session. Examinees will be required to install and configure different and complicated network settings and deploy it on different local area or wide area networks. During simulations, exam takers will be presented with numerous issues and network problems. It is therefore important to know the intricacies of diagnosing network problems and applying solutions that could troubleshoot the given problems. It is generally required that examinees should be able to work with different devices that exist in the network. Knowledge of updated network hubs and technologies is also essential for this purpose. There are no prerequisites for taking the lab exams aside from passing the written tests. Examinees are given ample time to prepare for the CCIE routing and switching exams. It is generally advised by Cisco that examinees should first get hands-on networking experience in order to grasp the concept and methods of network systems. Trainings and virtual simulations are also essential preparation steps which could be very valuable during actual

72

examinations. These are critical measures which could ensure the success of examinees in taking the CCIE lab exam.

73

CCIE Routing and Switching Exam: 3 Best Ways to Prepare for the Exam The CCIE routing and switching exam is probably one of the most difficult exam tracks of CCIE lab examinations. It requires high technical knowledge of different networking technologies. The CCIE examinee must also possess superior understanding of networks in order to solve the numerous problems that will be presented during actual examinations. There are several techniques and methods that can be used to prepare for the CCIE routing and switching exam. Examinees should prepare thoroughly for this exam track which is a major part of the CCIE lab exams. First, examinees must enroll in training centers that provide reviews for networking solutions and give updated approaches to latest network technologies. This will allow the CCIE examinees to refresh their theoretical knowledge. This is also important in order to understand the current best practices of routing and switching technologies. Second, examinees must secure different self-study guides such as books, training manuals, current journals, and technical documents related to networking technologies. These materials would reinforce the conceptual knowledge of aspiring CCIEs in grasping different network solutions. It could also broaden the theoretical framework of examinees and will enable them to look for different angles in solving networking issues. Third, examinees must constantly practice their networking skills either through actual hands-on experience in their company s IT environments or through network simulations. Simulations can be acquired through hosted service. The examinee will be provided with a virtual network environment. It could be a good training

74

ground for sharpening the skills on network configuration, deployment, and troubleshooting.

75

Simple Ways to Pass the CCIE Routing Exam Examinations are always twinned with review. However, is the case still the same with CCIE routing exam? It s a more difficult test than those long quizzes one takes in school. Thus, it also takes a more serious preparation if one wants to successfully get the CCIE routing certification. Generally, routing is a key feature used for the Internet. Through this process, one message can pass from one computer system to another. Routing involves working with a device called router and it helps the process in doing its main goal as well as analyzing and determining the best path for the message. Routing is a real challenge to any CCIE certification takers that is why more and more are taking serious study before the written and lab exam about this subject. exam:

Here are some useful study tips for a successful CCIE routing

Compiling copies of exam. These can be downloaded from the Cisco website. Joining a study group. There are many communities in the Internet that are communicating with one another for the sole purpose of passing the CCIE exam. Joining these groups will surely help the candidate in making serious and more effective study about CCIE routing. Buying books. This maybe a very simple one but reading books still works. However, it should be noted that not all CCIE books are great reference for studying. Comparing different books helps in determining the best among them.

76

Downloading some sample exams. CCIE exams are not always similar from the previous years but the previous exams can provide a preview of what one should expect during the CCIE routing examination. With enough preparation, success will surely be ensured with CCIE routing examination.

77

Getting to Know CCIE Routing and Switching Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert or CCIE is known for its very challenging exams. The difficulty of getting the CCIE certification justifies the high salary and good IT career waiting for those who successfully pass. CCIE is not just a common IT certification. There are many stages one should surpass before the real victory. The good side here is that one can choose the track he has his expertise on like the CCIE routing and switching. CCIE routing and switching is so far the most commonly taken CCIE track. There are now at least 14,329 CCIE routing and switching certified individuals in the world. It may also be observed that this track is the only partnered networking concept exam among other tracks. That is because routing and switching works almost similar but with few distinguishable differences. The difference between the two can be summarized by the involvement of packets and network. In switching, packets are moved between devices connected on the same network. In routing, packets are moved between devices of different networks. Though different, both switching and routing can be used for various local area networks and wide area networks. If one is certified as a CCIE routing and switching professional, he has the expertise of networking various WAN or LAN interfaces, as well as different routers and switches. CCIE routing and switching is the most popular CCIE track but that does not mean this is the easiest. Cisco still highly recommends having three to five years of experience working with this type of networking. Some professionals also advise reading related

78

books and taking sample exams before proceeding with the CCIE routing and switching exam.

79

The Benefits of CCIE Routing and Switching Lab Boot Camps A good way to prepare for the CCIE lab exams is through CCIE exam boot camps. These boot camps have several training programs and on of them is the CCIE routing and switching lab. It should be noted however that these CCIE routing and switching lab boot camps will require considerable financial investment. Entry to a boot camp could reach up to several thousand dollars. There will also be additional incremental cost such as purchase of books and other vital reading materials. The CCIE routing and switching lab boot camps are designed to give CCIE examinees hands-on experience in manipulating networks. Training sessions in boot camps could last for a week. Intensive lectures occupy the morning sessions while the rest of the day is dedicated to actual lab training. Most boot camps have dedicated laboratories for each of their clients. This will enable trainees to focus on their training and could help them easily grasp network protocol issues. All sessions provided by most CCIE routing and switching lab boot camps are led by competent CCIE instructors and coach. These instructors are CCIE certified professionals themselves and impart important knowledge on different networking systems. CCIE routing and switching lab boot camps also provide mock CCIE lab exams. These simulations are designed to test the actual ability of trainees in taking the CCIE exam. The simulations are also good measures to determine the capabilities of trainees in solving network problems under time limited restrictions. The mock lab exams will prepare the trainees to find network solutions under extreme pressure. IT professional vying for a one-shot take

80

on the CCIE lab exam should consider enrolling in CCIE routing and switching lab boot camps.

81

CCIE Routing Switching: The Twin CCIE Track Routing Switching are two different entities: routing and switching. Though they are different, the two concepts are united by the CCIE or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert making them CCIE routing switching. The CCIE routing switching is among the many tracks of examinations offered by the most challenging Cisco certification exam. Other than CCIE routing switching are other tracks like CCIE security, CCIE service provider, CCIE voice, and CCIE storage networking. The CCIE routing switching is the most popular among these other tracks with at least 14,329 CCIE routing and switching certified individuals in the world since late 2007. Switching and routing in CCIE, as mentioned, are two different entities but work almost similar to each other. The basic difference between them is that switching works with switches while routing works with routers. The router is capable of determining the target point for sending packet through the NetworkID within a specific Network layer header. However, the switch is capable of maintaining a database of MAC address and to which port they are connected to. Switching also works with packets moved from one device to another in one network. The routing, on the other hand, can move packets between devices connected to different networks. Having knowledge about routing and switching is necessary in order to successfully get a CCIE routing and switching certification. This particular certification, however, is not just as simple as the difference between routing and switching. CCIE routing switching involves various concepts on networking. This may include routing and switching, IP Interior Getaway Routing Protocols,

82

Border Getaway Protocol, Multicast Routing, Quality Service, Security, and IP and IOS features. Anyway, passing CCIE routing switching will be as easy as the alphabet with enough readings, knowledge, and long-time practice/experience on the field.

83

Basics of CCIE RS Examination The certification of CCIE in Routing and Switching depicts the level knowledge of expert in networking in different interfaces of wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN), and also a variety of switches and routers. The complex problems in connectivity are being solved by the experts in RS. They apply technology antidotes to heighten the bandwidth, to maximize the performance, to improve the response times, to support global applications and to improve security. The CCIE RS certified are expected to be able to install, configure and to maintain WAN, LAN, and the dial access services. The candidates are also expected to have an in-depth knowledge of the intricacies, subtleties, and challenges of end-to-end networking. Candidates are highly encouraged to have 3-5 years of experience in routing and switching field before attempting to get CCIE RS certification. This is important since the CCIE RS examination is comprised of RS-related topics like BSCI, CIT, CCNA, ARCH, QoS, IPV6, and BCMSN. The CCIE RS written qualification exam is for two hours and covers concepts of networking and some commands in equipment. Candidates must pass the written exam before becoming eligible in taking the lab examination. Meanwhile, the CCIE RS lab exam is an eight hours lab exam. The candidates must be able to configure the actual equipment and make the network run in a timed test plight. Every candidate is given three years to pass the lab exam but they can do the first CCIE RS lab exam within 18 years after passing the written exam.

84

Why CCIE Salaries Continue to Top the List CCIE salaries could reach up to a six-digit figure not to mention the different perks and benefits that accompany CCIE certification. In fact, in most salary surveys for the IT industry, CCIE professionals continue to dominate the top spot. They are the highest paid and the most respected certified IT experts in the industry. This however is not a surprising development. IT professionals invest thousands of dollars and sacrificed most of their personal time and enjoyment just to train for the CCIE certification. The reputation of the CCIE exam is unmatched in the IT industry. It is the toughest and most difficult certification exam. That is why CCIE passers can command high salaries. A CCIE certification is an assurance that companies have an IT guru in their midst. IT experts who have CCIE certifications are capable of building and maintaining complex networks. They also have the ability to institute the most rigid security measures for every network systems. CCIEs also have the ability to quickly diagnose internetworking problems and find solutions to it. This troubleshooting capacity is an assurance for most companies that their IT network could be excellently maintained and managed. The expertise gained by CCIE professionals is due to the fact that they have undergone intensive trainings and hands-on experience. There is no reported paper CCIE so far because the Cisco exams involve simulations of real life network configurations, maintenance and troubleshooting. Theoretical knowledge alone will not guarantee success on CCIE exams. One needs actual technical capabilities to hurdle the CCIE lab exam. That is why CCIE salaries are the most lucrative in the IT market because they are genuine experts in the field of information technology.

85

CCIE Salary: The Fruits of Hard CCIE Labor After the sleepless day and nights of continuous study, after the endless review, after the tightening of belt for CCIE expenses, CCIE certified can now harvest the fruits of their hard labor. That is by having the IT career they ve always wanted. Along with that is the high salary that will be more than enough for the house, for the car, for the gimmicks, for all the needs and wants. With as much as $102,000 earnings of CCIE certified professional per year, he can really have all he wanted in life. CCIE salary is the usual reason why information technology students and geeks spend money in taking the CCIE examinations. Expenses are not only for the exam payment but for the entire exam cost that covers review materials, travels, and the exam fee. Anyway, spending about $9,000 is nothing compared to the opportunities waiting for CCIE certified individuals. There are lots of jobs waiting for CCIE certified that, of course, offers high CCIE salary. The designation of Cisco Certified Engineer is the topmost Cisco certification a person could have. The CCIE salary also heightens through time because the CCIE becomes more experienced. CCIE with three to five years of experience will earn $82,000 annually. For those who have 5 years or more working experience can earn $90,731. For the senior CCIE who have been working for more than 10 years, they will earn $126,193 every year. It also varies in region. The salary of the average CCIE is $102,000. For hose who are in the West it is $123,777. CCIE certi-

86

fied in the Midwest can earn $85,000, while the CCIEs in Northeast earn $95,918 annually.

87

How to Prepare for the CCIE SAN Exam The CCIE SAN exam track tests the technical abilities of IT professionals in delivering storage networking and applying different transport protocols for this. The intelligent application of storage networking will allow companies to effectively manage and distribute databases across a wide network. CCIE SAN capable professionals should be able to configure different network languages to effectively integrate storage systems and facilitate data delivery using secure routers and virtual network transportations. The CCIE SAN exam track does not require any prior certifications or prerequisites. However, CCIE examinees must pass a rigid written SAN examination which is formatted as a multi-choice test. Passing the written examination for CCIE SAN is required in order to pursue actual CCIE SAN lab examinations. The lab exam is an intensive simulation test that will measure the competence of IT professionals in running and maintaining wide storage networks. As in most CCIE lab exam tracks, the CCIE SAN track requires that the examinee has sufficient hands-on experience in actual storage networking. To prepare for the CCIE SAN, the examinee must look for accredited training centers offering simulated storage networking solutions. This is important in order to enhance the skills of networking professionals in managing storage systems and deliveries. The Cisco Corporation has a list of accredited CCIE training centers. Examinees can also take advantage of virtual network solutions provided by on-demand CCIE training providers. These are self-study centers but the trainee will be able to practice on simulated network environments to sharpen their technical skills and proficiencies.

88

The Benefits of Attending CCIE Security Boot Camp A CCIE security boot camp could be a very effective training method for IT professionals preparing for CCIE security certification exam. There are CCIE security boot camps accredited by Cisco. These boot camps will help aspiring CCIEs to pass the comprehensive security track of CCIE lab exams. Some boot camps offer one-on-one trainings which is good for IT professionals who need flexible training schedules. But for those wishing to exchange notes with other IT professionals, there are CCIE security boot camps that accept group trainings. This will enable network professionals to know the current best practices of network security technologies in other IT environments. A CCIE security boot camp could be expensive. However, the benefits that a trainee could get from these boot camps should be well worth the cost of training. Trainees will also be able to practice on actual situations on matters pertaining to network security. Specific focus of CCIE security trainings includes Firewall configuration, set-up, and deployment, VPN technologies and Intrusion Prevention Systems. A typical CCIE security boot camp also gives sufficient exercises on Identity Management, Advance Security Protocols, and handling Network Attacks. These are part of CCIE curriculum that will be tackled during actual CCIE security lab exams. Through a CCIE security boot camp, aspiring CCIE professionals will know the latest techniques and technologies in building corporate network security. The mock exams provided in CCIE security boot camp could prepare the examinees on actual condi-

89

tions that will be encountered during the CCIE lab exam. This will increase their chances to successfully pass the CCIE lab exam.

90

Ways to Prepare for the CCIE Security Exam The CCIE security exam will test the technical expertise of IT professionals in building different network security protocols as well as configuring IP routing. This is a component exam track which is a part of comprehensive Cisco-sanctioned CCIE laboratory examinations. To prepare for the CCIE security exam, IT professionals will have to prepare thoroughly on the theory and practice of instituting security systems over a local network, wide area network, and IP configuring and routing. Firewall and other network security designs, architectures and troubleshooting should also be addressed during CCIE trainings. Trainees could get excellent preparation from online CCIE training centers. There are also class room trainings that could provide one on one CCIE coaching service. To successfully pass the CCIE security exam, the trainees must constantly practice on virtual networks. This would involve many weeks of deigning security protocols and testing it on virtual environments. In this way, CCIE trainees can measure their level of competence determine their specific skills strengths and weaknesses. For those who have the means and resources, they could actually build mock networks and train their skills using actual models. This kind of training can provide excellent network security situations and can prepare the examinees for the actual handson tests o CCIE security exam. Aspiring CCIE professionals can also take advantage of mock CCIE security exam provided by training center, bootcamps, and network security vendors. These mock exams will prepare the examinees especially in troubleshooting network security issues

91

under time pressure. It should be noted that the CCIE security exam is time limited so it would be better to practice on mock exams that mimic this situation.

92

CCIE Security Lab The first step of a student to pass the CCIE laboratory exam is to pass the written examination where their theoretical knowledge on CCIE is tested. There is also the practical exam that tests the candidate s competitiveness in laying out his theoretical knowledge in an actual work. The practical exam is mostly the more difficult part in almost all CCIE track examinations. If the CCIE Security written exam needs only two hours, the laboratory exam requires eight hours. Though hard, CCIE Security Lab passing rate will be anyone s passport to successful CCIE career. CCIE Security Lab exam will surely be an easy one if one has lots of knowledge about troubleshooting and securing network. But most people who plans of taking CCIE Security Lab exam prepares so much before the big day because if they fail, they have to say goodbye to their more than $1,000 exam fee. So, the best way is always to prepare to get a passing rate. One of the best ways for that is researching for the possible topics during the lab exam and to study them all. Topics of CCIE Security Lab exam may include all or most of the following topics: Bridging and Switching, IGP Routing, PIX Firewall, BGP, IP/IOS Features, AAA, VPN, IOS Firewall, Advanced Security, and Intrusion Detection System. Bridging and Switching may include the basic frame relay configuration, the traffic control and its congestion management, and the catalyst features and its advanced catalyst configuration. The IGP Routing may have the PIX Routing, route filtering, sum-

93

marization, and redistribution. Other IGP features may also be included in this Security Lab exam. Complete information about the possible topics for CCIE Security Lab examination can be found in various website.

94

A Primer on CCIE Security Lab Workbooks Security lab workbooks are necessary for you to gain a better understanding of the work that you do as a Cisco professional. There are different types of workbooks available in many Cisco on line ordering stores, but the cost comprehensive ones usually come in a self-paced form which will help you get ahead in the CCIE Security Lab exam. This type of comprehensive workbook usually consists of ten scenarios that are full scale and are good for eighthour lab scenarios. These are also designed to let the user work his way up from the ground based on the Cisco System 2007 Blueprint for January (in accordance with the CCIE Security Lab Exam. The labs in this security lab workbook volume are designed in such a way that it will be able to stimulate the actual exam while at the same time illustrating all of the principles that are behind the impressive and functional technology which is part and parcel of the Cisco system. The CCIE Security Lab Workbook can also come covered by an exclusive protection program as a way to protect your investment and everyone knows that education is the soundest investment you can ever make! The newest version of the security lab workbook was created last January 2007 and is comprehensive enough to include a section on Electronic Solutions which also explain the key points as well as the pitfalls of such a technology. Such configurations are also broken down by task so as a user, you will not need to guess which particular commands will relate to particular questions.

95

Bits and Pieces of CCIE Security Rack For CCIE users that need a good solid set of equipment in order to do their work, it can be very difficult to find a security rack that will meet their standards of excellence. But here in this article, one will be privy to the characteristics of a good CCIE security rack. This is also so you will be able to get good value for your money. Because there is an increase in the demand for CCIE services, many companies are now brining up additional security racks and routing services to meet their needs. A good company, therefore, must be able to have a wide range of available racks, at least a minimum of seven on line racks will do. A good set of routing services will usually contain at least six 2811 core routers, five 3640 backbone routers, four 3560 catalyst switches, a full mesh frame for relay and a wide host of P2P connections. For more value-added security racks, one will do well to check if the set he or she is going to get includes one 3640 core/backbone routers, two 3550 Catalyst switches, one PIX515 firewall, two pieces of ASA5510 (which should also include a failover), one IPS4215, a VPN3005, one ACS server, one test workstation a full mesh frame for relay and also plenty of connections for P2P. While lab requirements usually change from time to time, many providers also make sure that their equipments are up to date in order to meet the demands of the changing times.

96

Figuring Out Security Training for CCIE Security training for CCIE is a highly intensive course that is designed to enhance the competencies of the candidates who will be taking the practical lab exam for Security. These security training courses usually last for five high intensive days which will allow them to concretize your existing knowledge, figure out their weaknesses and learn all about different kinds of strategies in test taking. The security training class is usually designed for the candidates who have six months to prepare for the lab exam. Most training classes do not really cover some introductory material because the candidates themselves are expected to have a minimum level knowledge of CCSP and the corresponding topics that are part and parcel of this topic. For five whole days you will be able to cover different topics from VPN configurations, PIX Firewall configurations, IDS sensor management and so much more. The five day security training runs for twelve hours per class. These courses are delivered by authorized learning partners. The security training classes usually have a maximum of eight students per class, with each student having their own IDS Sensor, VPN 3005 Concentrator, PIX 515 Firewall, two 3550 Switches, ten 2811 Routers and a server for ACS/CA, which are some of the world's most advanced tools in the Cisco industry. Furthermore, each student will receive a dedicated instructor who will teach the all about the ins and outs of security training for Cisco to ensure that they know everything there is to know about the entire system.

97

Dissecting the CCIE Security Written Exam Bit by Bit The CCIE certification exam has a written component in addition to the actual practical lab exam. While there are no formal prerequisites for the certification itself, the minimum level is being able to pass the written examination about security and then move on to the corresponding exam for the hands-on lab. In the CCIE security written exam, you will be expected to possess a thorough understanding of all the topics that can be found in the exam blueprints and are also strongly encouraged to have job experience (usually with a minimum requirement of at least three to five years on the job) before you even attempt to take the exam for the certification. Of course, being prepared for such an exam also means having the exam materials and reading and going through them thoroughly. The security written exam will compose of two whole hours, covering concepts about networking and some knowledge about equipment commands are required for you to be eligible for the lab exam. The security written exam is composed of one hundred multiple choice questions. These exams do not come cheap, nor is the cost astronomical. The security exam is pegged at three hundred US dollars, but these may vary depending on the independent vendors that administer them and other factors such as exchange rate and local taxes. It also has an expiration date, so the candidates should be able to make an attempt of the lab exam for CCIE within eighteen months once the candidate passes the written exam for security.

98

Cracking the Code: First Dibs on the CCIE Security Written Exam After several years of working with Cisco systems and applying all your knowledge in the workplace, your next step is probably to take the CCIE certification exam. This exam is a sure way to recharge your career and make you seem all the more professional in this industry, because passing it means being able to command a higher salary and become a leader of any CCIE team of any company or organization. Of course, the test itself is pretty hard, what with one hundred multiple choice questions which you need to answer within a total of two whole hours. And with Cisco having such a broad range of topics and sub concepts, how will you be able to trim down your studies for the test? To start off, the CCIE exam will have a general networking component. Here, you will need to study about the basics of networking, including OSI layers, Switching (VTP, VLANs, Spanning Tree, etc), TCP/IP Protocols, IP Multicast, and Routing Protocols (including EIGRP, RIP, and BGO, among others). It also tackles the subject of Security General, so be prepared to face questions that are related to the best security policies and the best practices for security, different kinds of information security standards (which also include ISO 17799, BS 7799 and ISO 27001), different Standard Bodies, BCP 38, Common RFCs (example, RFC1918 and RFC2401), questions about attacks and vulnerabilities and security audit and validation may also come out. This truly is comprehensive, but working on such a task will be worth the effort you make!

99

CCIE Service Provider Provides Real Assistance CCIE is the hardest yet it is the best IT examination in the realm of information technology. IT students die hard to pass this exam, and a take two is a no because of the high cost of the examination. But an IT student is not alone; CCIE service provider has a workbook that is designed to help students to pass the examination. The workbook of Internetwork Expert s Service Provider is a supplement to the training materials for the student to prepare for the laboratory exam of Cisco System s Service Provider CCIE Lab Exam. The workbooks of Internetwork Expert s CCIE have been utilized by numerous networking engineers to assist the preparation of the multiple tracks of the CCIE laboratory examination. Here are some of highlighted key points that a student should consider in selecting and buying a workbook: What workbook of a vendor includes a free upgrade policy? What vendor includes diagrams for each lab free of charge? What workbook of a vendor are utilized by more candidates to pass the laboratory exam of CCIE What workbook of a vendor includes solutions: proctor guide, solutions guide, verifications, etc for free?

100

The CCIE service provider is like the actual CCIE lab exam, every lab scenario in the CCIE Service Provider Lab Workbook Volume II is composed of different sections. A student might be exceptional in grades and in his technical skills, but CCIE is the examination to beat. After the student passes the examination, there is a bright future that waits for him or her. And with the high expenses that one will spend, it is very worthy to take CCIE service provider.

101

Preview of CCIE SP Examination CCIE SP is the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert Service Provider track examination. This determines a certain individual s competency regarding networking within the service provider s industry. Just like all of other CCIE track exams, the CCIE SP is composed of two general parts written and lab exams. A person who wishes to be a CCIE SP certified must pass these two general parts. Written and lab exams are different in nature and difficulty. But they just include the same topics like optical networks, Wide Area Network switching, DSL or digital subscriber line, VoIP or Voice over Internet protocol, content networking, Metro Ethernet, and broadband cable. A candidate, before taking the CCIE SP exam, is strongly advised to practice this field for at least three years. But anyone without actual CCIE SP experience can still pursue the exam since this is not a requirement. CCIE SP written exam is for two hours and covers concepts, as well as, equipment commands connected to packet-based networking infrastructure. One should pass the written CCIE SP before taking the lab exam. If the candidate unfortunately fails the written exam, he can still get one but he must pay about $300 per take. If he passed the written exam, he can now schedule his CCIE SP lab exam. The CCIE SP lab exam, on the other hand, lasts for a maximum of eight hours. While the written tests the theoretical skills of the candidate, the lab exam challenges his practical skills on CCIE SP. The lab exam will determine ones ability to change actual equipment and obtain a service provider network available in the

102

time of lab examination. The candidate is given three years to pass the lab exam if in case he failed the first attempt.

103

Rise Up the Ladder with CCIE Storage CCIE studies on storage will be a whole lot better and easier for any candidate if he or she will attend a boot camp for CCIE Advantage Storage Lab. The candidates who usually attend these boot camps are those who are currently preparing for the exam for the CCIE Storage Lab and must definitely possess a good number of theoretical information that will also come out in the test itself. If they want to gauge their level of expertise in CCIE storage, the candidates can also have their level of preparedness assessed. This is also a way to figure out if the candidate will need additional practice or if he or she will be able to get by without. The course objectives for the CCIE storage exam must be attuned to the knowledge of the candidates to allow them to respond to the different challenges they will face in internetworking technology along with the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert program. This storage exam can also be considered as a high-level certification program which is also designed to identify as well serve the different aspects of internetworking experts, not to mention improve their hands-on skills. The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification is the most recent certification in the entire industry. The boot camp will surely help with its different sets of practice exercises which cover all the protocols that are tested in the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert lab exam. These are also aimed at the engineers who are also preparing for the CCIE lab exam themselves.

104

The Lowdown on CCIE Storage Networking The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert program also includes a component on storage networking, which is a must for all professionals who want to be known in this field. The storage networking component works to bring together the different areas of Cisco, which are routing and switching, service provider, security, voice (VoIP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert tracks. The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert storage networking component is committed to creating storage area networking as a way of presenting itself as a core advanced technology. Putting together a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert exam for only one area is useless, so the nuances of information technology as well as the internetworking industry can benefit from a strong background in storage networking as part of the entire Cisco curriculum. This way, Cisco can be seen as the number one overall best strategy in networking. The storage networking component simply builds on the successes that Cisco has been able to produce beforehand, which, quite incidentally, is also built on a foundation of networks. The many candidates for storage networking will also need to pass a written test that will cover the different theoretical concepts, including a hands-on exam for lab in order to demonstrate their real world skills in the system. These candidates must be able to demonstrate thorough proficiency when it comes to the devices that are used in this system, including SAN switches as well as directors, routers and management solutions. Such a certification also deals with the Cisco MDS 9000, which includes intelligent storage directors as well as fabric switches.

105

CCIE Study: Best Preparation for the Examination The Cisco Certified Internetwork Engineer is a certification for the persons who gained a broad CISCO knowledge and skill. This certification attests that a certain person is knowledgeable enough in doing the set-up, troubleshoot, including the administering the software and hardware of Cisco network. The CCIE certification is highly regarded as the premier accreditation on the ladder of Cisco certification. It is for this reason why many of the network engineers are aiming to obtain this certification. But like the other examinations, one needs to devote an ample time of studying to pass the CCIE exam. Now, for one to obtain the title, a proper studying scheme is helpful to overcome the extensive challenges during the examination. Studying is the best preparation to pass the CCIE examination. But this certainly requires a good amount of time and money. Therefore, commitment and self-discipline is a must particularly if one is doing self-study. When studying for the CCIE exam, one needs to remember that the perfect ingredient is hard work studying every night for instance. In this case, two hours of study is enough in each night. Ideally, one should study six months prior to the date of examination. And if one has devoted his time for studying, he must strictly prohibit interruptions. There should never be any excuse for one to pursue his study. Be it a good T.V. show, good time at the bar with friends, or even if an overtime on the work. This embraces the attitude of discipline and the commitment to achieve the goal.

106

One may also try browsing the internet. There are several sites that offer suggestions in preparation for the CCIE certification examination.

107

CCIE Study Groups for Better Learning Are you a CCIE list-member who is looking for a place where you can get together with other people to study in depth topics and literature all of which cover CCIE topics? Cisco provides its list members with study groups which operate in that matter. Moderators are dispatched in each study group. These moderators take charge of their study group s activities for each meeting by making sure that each session proves to be fruitful for the members. They may opt to take the initiative to conduct a formal and structured teaching manner for the group, or they may allow members to conduct free-flowing discussions amongst themselves. You must first enroll to be able to participate in a study group. To enroll, go to Edit Profile and register for a study group in the same page. Once you have enrolled during the open enrollment dates, you will receive your user-account and details. Different groups set different periods for enrollment. There are groups who allow students to enroll at any time. There are also groups who only allow enrollment during pre-set dates. Enrollment policies depend on the groups moderators. Study groups labeled as Closed means that it is no longer possible for anyone to enroll in that group. To find out if a class is still accepting enrollees, you must check the message board first for the details. If a group is no longer accepting enrollees, one may however choose to audit the group. An auditing person may not post messages in the class, but can follow the group s discussions and read assigned materials on their own. There are always new study groups being developed, so check the list often.

108

Spending on a Good CCIE Study Guide Has Its Rewards Every IT professional knows the importance of having a CCIE certification. They know that having such certification could earn them high salaries. So they try to earn the CCIE certification even at high costs. However, not every IT professional who takes the said exams is successful. They have to take the written exam and the hands on exam. It's important that they pass both exams to get certified. Many would have to retake a couple of times before eventually coveting such respected certification. Many spend thousands of dollars for review and getting hands on practice. There are some who would even buy old Cisco equipment to build their own mock labs at home. Others would rent online rack time so they can get hands on experience and practice on lab scenarios. For this purpose, there are also some training centers and some sites that offer CCIE study guides. They also offer some questions and answers sets along with the explanation for each item. They even sell sound files for review. Some would offer everything in a bundle. IT professionals can purchase a whole CCIE study guide kit including some lab exercises. IT professionals really go all the lengths just to get the CCIE certification. And they have the choices on which CCIE study guide to take. The more complete study guide is better since passing the CCIE exams is difficult. Spending so much on the review would be worth it if they get certified. According to 2007 survey, CCIE certified IT professionals earn 10% to 15% more than their uncertified peers.

109

Pass the CCIE Test and Get an Expert Level Cisco Certification Cisco issues certifications for IT professionals working with their products. There are three levels of Cisco career certifications: the associate, the professional and the expert levels. The expert level Cisco certification is known as the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification. This is quite a valuable certification in the IT profession. Those working with the Cisco products that have this certification generally get higher pay than those who do not have the certification and those with the level of associate and professional certification. It s not easy to get this certification however. In order to complete the CCIE test one has to pass the written exam and a practical hands-on exam. Passing the written exam is required before one would be allowed to take the hands-on exam. After passing the written exam, the examinee only has to 18 months to take his first attempt of the hands on exam. If he does pass it the first time, he can take as many retakes for 3 years. If he still does not get a passing mark, he must retake the written exam again and pass it. Then he can take the hands- on exam again. The CCIE certification has 5 different tracks; routing and switching, security, service provider, voice and storage networking. Each, of course, focuses on the different topics and specialties. Although there are no formal prerequisites, Cisco suggests that an IT professional would gain a three to five year networking experience first before taking the CCIE test. One does not have to pass through the associate and professional level to get to the expert level. The CCIE certification was first given out before the two. The associate and the professional levels were only given out later on for those who needed a lower level certification only.

110

Master s List of CCIE Tracks Ever wondered what types of tracks which enable mastery of a certain networking field are available for you to choose from? Cisco offers a wide range of laboratory tracks available for people to choose from. Each CCIE track focuses on specific skills. These skills vary and are dependent on the main aspect of the specific track. Each lab track focuses on implementing their respective skills onto students who participate in the track. Here is a brief enumeration of these available tracks which Cisco is offering. The most popular track is the Routing and Switching Track which mainly focuses on solving connection problems to improve the response times, increasing the bandwidth allocations, and maximizing the performance of routers. All operations of this track support various global operations. There are also other tracks available. There is the Security Track which focuses on configuring complex networks, troubleshooting various integrated environments, and understanding various common security threats. Another track is the Service Provider Track which mainly focuses on creating infrastructures of various service provider networks which are essential for delivering managed services, skills in packet architecture which is of importance for many service providers. There is also the Storage Networking Track which focuses extensively on implementing storage area networks, as well as troubleshooting them. Keep in mind that whichever track you select will determine which field of networking you will belong to after finishing your chosen track. The coverage of each track is wide since Cisco aims to equip its experts with enough skill and information to dominate their respective fields in networking.

111

Verifying CCIE Members Certification with the CCIE Verification Tool The CCIE Verification Tool allows you to be able to very a CCIE member s certification status by supplying his or her name. You will also be able to get their unique CCIE number through the same process. Some questions in exercises are easily misinterpreted by people. Most of the time, they appear to be tricky, with hidden elements which you are required to include in your configuration. If you find an exercise to be ineffective for you, then you may opt to make use of this section. In the Overview, it is recommended that you use this section for verification and comparing results through adapting any of the methods of troubleshooting shown. Various hints which aid in the configuration and completion of exercises are also provided. Acting as a guide for using commands which include show and debug orders which are all used in verification and troubleshooting, is another aspect of this section. It is important that you learn how to use these commands and to be able to read each output of each command while determining when to use them. There are multiple key elements to consider when hoping for success with the exam. Learning how to troubleshoot as effectively as possible is one of them. Entering the CCIE member s user information as it is shown in the CCIE database is essential for receiving a positive verification of a certain member. For example, a person whose name is Bob may have the name Bobby registered as his user name.

112

Passing the CCIE Voice Exam Means Expertise in Cisco VoIP Solutions The value of a CCIE certification is a given. All IT professionals know this. They aim to get this certification because they want to take advantage of having an expert status and therefore an expert level salary. The CCIE certification has 5 tracks. Each track focuses on a different topic. One of which is the CCIE Voice track. Having a CCIE Voice certification means that one is very knowledgeable in providing an enterprise with voice over IP solutions. Getting CCIE Voice certified requires no prerequisite training but to get certified with a CCIE Voice, one has to pass both a written exam and a lab exam. To be able to take the written CCIE Voice exam one would have to pay a fee of about $300. The exam generally would deal with the Cisco technology and applications that an enterprise would use in VoIP solutions. On the other hand, the lab exam would be a timed exam. Every question aims to test a certain criterion. But the whole lab exam is an 8-hour exam which assesses the examinee s skills in providing VoIP solutions to an enterprise in a given time. The lab exam would normally cost about $1,400. Again to get certified one would have to pass both the written and the lab exams. He must pass the written CCIE Voice exam first before he is qualified to take the lab exam for CCIE Voice. It s not easy to pass the exam but once he does, he will be CCIE Voice certified and he will be considered an expert in providing VoIP solutions to enterprise using Cisco products. This could lead to an increase in salary and more employment opportunities as well.

113

Completing the Certification by Passing the CCIE Voice Lab Exam A Cisco VoIP specialist wouldn't be complete without a CCIE Voice certification. He must have this certification in order to be considered an expert in his line of work. If he wants to earn higher then he must obtain the CCIE Voice certification. If he is confident of his skills he can do so by taking the CCIE exams. Taking the test is not a joke. Not all examinees pass the CCIE examinations; and so many really make all the preparations in order to make the exam. The CCIE Voice exam has two parts. The first part is the CCIE Voice written exam. It s a must that the examinee would pass this first. And then he can now take the CCIE Voice lab exam. The CCIE Voice lab exam is quite long. The examinee would be given 8 hours to answer a series of lab questions, all of which basically assessing some skill set that a Cisco VoIP professional should possess. He will be given basic network connectivity. But it is up to him to configure some pre-installed applications according to the question or the problem at hand. He must also know how to troubleshoot some parameters and basic features of the voice network. The CCIE Voice lab exam is graded by trained expert proctors. It costs about $1,400 per attempt. That is why one should really prepare well not just for the CCIE written exam but for the CCIE Voice lab exam as well. Knowing things is theory is essential but knowing how to apply them in providing enterprises with Cisco voice solutions over an IP network is vital as well.

114

Passing The CCIE Voice Written Exam Is a Good Start IT professionals who want to specialize in Cisco VoIP solutions would generally aim for a CCIE Voice certification. In order to prove their expertise in this field, they have to pass the CCIE Voice exam. This is the only way to showcase their knowledge and get better jobs and better salaries as well. In order to get the CCIE Voice certification, there are two exams an IT professional has to pass. He has to pass both the CCIE Voice written exam and the CCIE Voice lab exam. The CCIE Voice certification does not have any prerequisite but one has to pass the CCIE Voice written exam first before he can move on to the lab exam and finally get the certification. The CCIE Voice written exam is the first step towards the obtaining the CCIE voice certification. One must demonstrate an aptitude in Cisco technologies and applications that are used in providing VoIP solutions to enterprise. This would more or less cost $300 depending on the exchange rate in some countries. It is given in more than a hundred testing centers around the world. The CCIE Voice written exam is the first step so it is important that one would pass this test. Without which he can t go on to the next step which is taking the lab exam. While it is not all it takes to get the certification, it is a start towards that goal. One really has to prepare for each part of the exam. He has to first prepare for the CCIE Voice written exam and then the lab exam to complete the whole endeavor.

115

Going for a CCIE VoIP Certification There are a lot of advantages of being CCIE certified. There are 5 tracks in CCIE, each referring to a different line of expertise. Among the five, the one that certifies expertise in VoIP solutions is the CCIE Voice track. It used to be a component of CCIE routing and switching certification, but since the inception of CCIE Voice in 2003, the certification for VoIP solutions experts has been the job of CCIE Voice certification. Like the other CCIE certifications, CCIE VoIP certification requires that the IT professional seeking it pass first the CCIE written exam and then the CCIE lab exam. Fees for such exams are high and so are taking reviews and boot camps for CCIE VoIP. But despite this, Cisco VoIP practitioners still try their luck in it because of the perks it can bring to them. The rewards are just greater than their investment in time and in money. A CCIE VoIP certified IT professional could get better salary because such certification somehow demonstrates his expertise in the field of VoIP solutions. Having the certification means not only being knowledgeable but it means having expert knowledge in providing Cisco VoIP solutions to enterprises. Although it does not certify expertise in the infrastructure supporting such solutions, being CCIE VoIP certified means that the person is capable in providing the best VoIP solutions because he is an expert in the field. The status of being CCIE VoIP certified is such a big deal then; being called an expert means being hired and being paid as an expert.

116

Getting the CCIE Workbook That Gets You Certified Obtaining the CCIE certification is quite a must for IT professionals who want to be recognized as experts and for those who want to earn higher salaries. They see it as a key to moving ahead of their careers and so they try to earn it as fast as they can. Some IT professionals prepare for the CCIE exams in the traditional way. They build mock labs with old Cisco equipment. Others would rent rack time online. However, many other options are now available. There a many companies and sites that offer guides and reviewers for the said exams. They offer questions and answers. They give voice files. For the lab examination, they sell CCIE workbooks. Well, buying a CCIE workbook has its advantage if one obtains a good one. There are IT professionals who really pass the lab exam because they used a CCIE workbook to review. While many merely help them to pass the exam on their first attempt, there are also some which really help them improve their skills as well. Preparing for the CCIE exams and taking the exams again and again can be expensive so it could the CCIE can really save the examinee much. If the examinee is successful with the CCIE workbook, then he will really gain a lot from the undertaking. He will then have saved some review expense and he will get a good salary because he has the CCIE certification. He will now be a certified CCIE and he will also get a lot of work opportunities.

117

Passing the CCIE Written Exam Brings You a Step Closer to a CCIE Certification Having the CCIE certification gives an IT professional an edge in his chosen field. This is because having such certification somehow proves his expertise in networking especially with the use of Cisco products. He is then expected to know and understand every single detail there is in end to end networking. Because of such qualifications employers are expected to compensate them higher salaries as well. This makes IT professionals to try their best to get CCIE certified. Getting certified means having to go through two exams. One has to pass the CCIE written exam first before he can take the lab exam. The coverage of the written exam depends on the CCIE track one wants to get certified in. It is a two-hour computer based multiple choice exam and the examinee has the choice from the hundreds of CCIE exam testing centers worldwide. If the examinee does not pass his first try of the CCIE written exam, he can take it again after 5 days. Once he passes the CCIE written exam, the examinee has to make his first attempt of the lab exam in eighteen months. Should he not be able to make it, his CCIE written exam will be valid up to 3 years so he can retake the lab exam during that time. After which, he would have to retake the CCIE written exam before he can retake the lab exam. So the CCIE written exam really is the first step toward obtaining a CCIE certification. One has to pass it if he wants to get a shot at the lab exam and his main goal, the CCIE certification.

118

CCNA CCIE Certification: Which One is Appropriate for YOu? The CCNA CCIE certifications each demonstrate a certain level of knowledge or even an amount of expertise in providing solutions with the use of Cisco products. But while the CCIE certification gives one an expert badge, the CCNA only certifies an associate level of knowledge on the part of the examinee. But not all IT positions would require a CCIE certification. Some of them would only need associate level knowledge and so they would only need a CCNA certification. The CCNA certification expires in just three years. One would have to get recertified or he can upgrade to the next level. He is not required to upgrade but he has the choice to do so. Although going to the CCIE certification is a better status, some may opt for an easier professional or even maintain the associate level certification. A lot of opportunities await the CCNA CCIE certified people. Skills in Cisco enterprise solutions are needed by companies so there are a lot of jobs for them. Some jobs are for the CCNA certified IT professionals while others would require a CCIE certification. The higher the level of one s knowledge and the more expertise he has, the better job salary he will get. That is why although CCNA certification is enough to land one a job, it would also be better to get the CCIE certification. A lot more preparation needs to be done when one decides to take the CCIE than a CCNA but a lot more can be gained by the CCIE certification too.

119

CCNA CCNP CCIE Certifications: Get It All Or Get CCIE Certified Right Away The CCNA CCNP CCIE certifications all correspond to a certain level of knowhow in handing out Cisco solutions. The CCNA means Certified Cisco Network Associate. As the name suggests, it is the associate certification for Cisco professionals. Having one signifies that the person is capable to install, administer and troubleshoot medium sized routed and switched networks. But the certification has a validity of 3 years only. The next step to CCNA is the CCNP or the Certified Cisco Network Professional. For an IT professional to be able to take the CCNP exam he has to be a CCNA first. Having a CCNP certification signifies the capability of the individual to work with a network consisting of about 100 to 500 end devices and with QoS, VPNs, broadband technology and the like. In order to achieve the professional status one must pass 3 or 4 exams depending on the exam set one chooses to take. Alternatively, one can go straight to CCIE. The CCIE does not have any prerequisite so one has the choice to get CCIE certified right away or proceed to CCIE after CCNA. If the individual feels confident about his skills and expertise in providing Cisco enterprise solutions then he can try to get CCIE certified right away. The exam is more difficult though and the exam fees are higher than the CCNA and the CCNP. Whatever one chooses to take, he must be sure that he is well prepared so that he will only have to pay for the exam once. Of course, he should decide based on his knowledge and his aim in his career as well because the higher level of certification he has the better job and the higher pay he will get.

120

The advantages of becoming CCIE-Cisco Certified Network Professional Holder The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is the topmost network certification that can be offered for networking professionals at senior level who create, build, carry out, maintain, or restore complicated networking operations. CCIE is described by Cisco as its premium networking certification. Considered as among the most challenging exams, CCIE includes both theoretical or written and practical or lab exams. And once one has become CCIE recipient, he/she can be deliberate in performing specific tasks such as switching and routing, communications and services, voice technologies and systems, or security. Specifically, the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is one of the professional certifications being provided under CCIE. Becoming a CCNP holder proves one s capacity to work with certain technology such as broadband, VPNs, Qos, and security-minded features. Also, CCNP certification confirms one s ability to work out medium-sized networks, those with end devices between 100 and 500. One must first obtain a CCNA certification, along with three or four other exams before acquiring a CCNP. The four tests required for candidates to pass are (1) 642-901 BSCI (Building Scalable Cisco Internetworks); (2) 642-812 BCMSN (Building Cisco Multilayer Switched Networks); (3) 642-825 ISCW (Implementing Secure Converged Wide Area Networks); and (4) 642-845 ONT (Optimizing Converged Cisco Networks). Both BSCI and BCMSN can be taken under a single exam known as the 642-892 Composite. This composite exam basically covers subject matters for BCMSN and BSCI.

121

Lastly, to maintain certification, one may either upgrade to a CCIE every after three years or re-certify. The Prep Center provides access to further equipment and resources that are helpful in getting ready for the certification.

122

Cisco CCIE Taking Chances on a Bigger Challenge Are you up in taking a huge leap in the Cisco certification hierarchy? If yes is your answer to this question, then taking a certification exam for Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) is just what you are looking for. Unlike any other professional level certifications, the CCIE certification has no prerequisite. However, a more challenging hands-on lab exam awaits candidates to prove their skills and expertise on the CCIE track of their choice. Indeed, the CCIE exam is one of the most difficult certifications to attain, but still a lot of hopefuls are taking their chances as greater rewards await successful takers. And yes, all the perseverance and hard work paid off to 15,658 professionals with active CCIE certifications all over the world as of the 14th of November, 2007. Reported as a highly compensated certification, CCIE was first offered by Cisco in 1993. Indeed, a candidate will be offered a very good salary after passing the certification exam. However, it will also cost him or her thousands of dollars to get there. Apart from spending valuable money from purchased books and attended training classes, candidates will also have to pay about US $300 for the written exam and another US $1,400 for the lab exam per attempt. But the good news is that CCIE hopefuls can hold multiple certifications by passing both written and lab exams for any of the 5 tracks, which include the following: a) Routing and Switching, (b) Security, (c) Service Provider, (d) Storage Networking and (e) Voice. Achieving such CCIE certification status is something that one should really be proud of.

123

Mastering Cisco s CCIE Lab Exam The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification consists of both written and lab exams. The written exam, which costs about US$315 for every attempt, is pre-requisite for the lab exam. Only when the candidates pass the written exam can they be qualified to take initial attempt for the lab exam in 18-month duration. In case the initial lab exam was failed, the candidates are given 3 years to complete the lab exam (starting from the date they have passed successfully the written exam). If the candidates have yet failed to pass the CCIE lab within this 3-year period, they would again be required to take and pass successfully the written exam before making further efforts in taking the lab exam. Candidates can make as many attempts possible to pass the CCIE lab exam (waiting time between attempts is one month) provided that they have first passed successfully the written exam. The CCIE lab exam, which is an 8-hour practical exam, currently costs about $1,400 per attempt. This lab exam intends to validate practice of theory learned by those who passed the written exam. Most CCIE takers undertake several attempts to pass. Although there are no formal requirements, Cisco recommends candidates to have at least 3?5 years of networking experience before trying to become genuine CCIE holders. Ten Cisco Lab Exam centers located nationwide offer CCIE, which include: Beijing; Bangalore; Brussels; Dubai; Hong Kong; Research Triangle Park, NC; São Paulo; Sydney; San Jose, CA; and Tokyo, Japan. Depending as which CCIE tracks the candidates desired to complete, there are cases wherein some tracks do not include lab exams nor available at all locations. Likewise, it is also possible for one to acquire multiple CCIE certifications by succeeding both written and lab exams in a specific track.

124

What it is to know about CCIE-DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is covered by CCIE s (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) prominent track, which is the Routing and Switching. DHCP is the procedure used by specific clients (network devices) to gain a variety of parameters that are essential for clients to run an IP (Internet Protocol) network. This protocol results in a significant decrease in system administration workload thus allowing more devices to be added to the network with less effort or no labor-intensive configuration involved at all. DHCP basically provides solution when working with either a single DHCP server, or a collection of servers. Also, DHCP is functional in performing specific tasks such as direct assigning of addresses desktop machines and servers, likewise via PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) proxy for both dialup and broadband on-demand hosts (e.g., residential network address translation (NAT) gateways and routers). This protocol can automate assigning of IP addresses, default gateway, subnet masks, and other IP parameters. On the contrary, DHCP is not particularly suitable for DNS servers and non-edge routers. Lastly, DHCP is highly suggested for servers with addresses that hardly ever change. This simply means that if some servers needed to be readdressed, it would only require minimal work on it. In addition, it can be helpful to set-up a TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol) or SSH servers for devices that does not require or use DHCP (e.g., routers, firewalls). TFTP or SSH servers can also be used on machines that also operate DHCP as this helps in consolidating administration.

125

What does it take to acquire the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification? The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is the utmost level of professional certification that Cisco can offer. Acquiring this highest certification level involves the completion by candidates of the five determined active CCIE tracks, which include: (1) CCIP or Cisco Certified Internetwork Professional, (2) CCNP or Cisco Certified Network Professional, (3) CCDP or Cisco Certified Design Professional, (4) CCVP or Cisco Certified Voice Professional, and (5) CCSP or Cisco Certified Security Professional. CCIE consists of written and lab exams. The written exam, which is pre-requisite for the lab exam, costs about US$315 per attempt. It s only when the candidates pass the written exam can they qualify to take initial attempt for the lab exam (18-month duration). Lest the initial lab exam was failed, 3 years are given for candidates to complete their lab exam (starting from the date when they have passed successfully the written exam). If the candidates have still failed to pass the lab exam within the 3-year period, they will be required to take again and attempt to pass the written exam before taking further attempts for the lab exam. Candidates can take as many attempts to pass the lab exam (one-month waiting time between attempts) provided that they have passed successfully their written exam. CCIE lab exam is an 8-hour practical exam that currently costs about $1,400 per attempt. This lab exam basically intends to

126

validate practice of theory learned by candidates who passed successfully the written exam. Most CCIE takers can undertake several attempts to pass the lab exam. It is also possible for one to acquire multiple CCIE certifications by succeeding both written and lab exams in a specific track. To know this information can be expedient to potential CCIE candidates.

127

IP Expert CCIE: Qualify as a VoIP expert Becoming an expert in the area of Cisco VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is one of the prerequisites to obtaining CCIE s Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP). The CCVP is basically an optimized procedure for transmitting voice via the Internet or further packet switched networks. Also known as IP Telephony, Broadband telephony, Broadband Phone, Internet Telephony, or Voice over Broadband, VoIP often refers to the existent voice transmission and not the actual procedure executing it. What is there to learn about VoIP? The following provides brief discussion on how VoIP functions and be useful. By using what is termed as speech data compression techniques, VoIP carries call up signals as digital audio and reduces its data rate. The data packet stream is compressed over the internet protocol (IP). Normally, IP providers are those companies that provide VoIP service while VoIP protocols refer to specific procedures used to carry voice signals through IP network. Some cost savings methods were created to maximize unused network capacity that carries data and voice with no additional costs required. For instance, VoIP to VoIP call transactions is often free, whereas VoIP to PSTN (public switched telephone networks) requires some costs, specifically to VoIP user. Two types of PSTN to VoIP services are available, which are the direct inward dialing (DID) service and the access numbers service. In DID service, the caller is directly connected to the VoIP use, whereas the access numbers requires for the caller to input the VoIP user s extension number. Qualifying as a VoIP is just a part of

128

acquiring high-level expertise in CCIE. Acquiring CCIE certification may require a lot of work but can eventually lead later rewarding and opportunities.

129

Pass CCIE for Sure with Pass4sure CCIE In the competitive world of Information Technology, only those individuals who are certified in the IT field get the best jobs and the highest salaries. There are a number of companies that offer certification programs but one that is on top of the list is the Cisco Certification provided by Cisco Systems. This certification program rates IT professionals and network engineers into three categories namely; the associate, the professional, and the expert. Each of these classifications requires the candidate to pass exams which were designed by the Cisco Systems. Most of the IT professionals and the network engineers strive hard to pass the expert level of certification. This certification is known as the CCIE or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. A candidate that would like to have this CCIE certification must achieve the following; (1) the candidate must pass the CCIE written exam, and (2) the candidate must pass the CCIE laboratory exam. Passing these two exams have proven difficult for most candidates and it was reported that only less than 10 percent of the candidates are successful in reaching CCIE status. Fortunately, there are programs that assist candidates to become successful in reaching CCIE certification. One of these programs is the pass4sure CCIE program. Pass4sure CCIE is a system that provides practice exams for CCIE certifications. Pass4sure provides the candidates with practice exams and the answers in order to help them prepare for the actual CCIE certification exams. Pass4sure claims that candidates

130

that would use their system would pass for sure on the first attempt and even guarantees this with a 100 percent money back guarantee if you don t.

131

Steps to pass CCIE exams Cisco Systems has established a certification program for persons who would like to become Information Technology (IT) professionals. Cisco career certifications have three levels, namely; Associate, Professional, and Expert. The expert-level certification is called the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and this is the highest level of certification that Cisco Systems provides. Being labeled as a CCCIE is the goal of many IT professionals and network engineers. Having a CCIE certification would also mean a jump in your salary scale since CCIE engineers are said to have the highest salaries in the IT profession. However, obtaining a CCIE certification is not an easy task since a person must be able to pass a very difficult CCIE test in order to be given one. The passing rate for the CCIE test is very low and it is estimated that only less than 10 percent of network professionals who take are successful. To pass CCIE, a candidate must pass both the written exam and the laboratory exam in the specific area of the candidate s chosen track. The written exam is computer-based and two hours long. In this written exam, a candidate must answer 100 questions with a passing mark of 70 percent. After passing the written exam, a candidate can start attempting to pass the lab exam. The CCIE lab exam is an 8-hour difficult examination. A candidate should get a passing score of 80 percent if he/she wants to become certified by CCIE. If a candidate fail at his/her first attempt at the lab exam, s/he is given a maximum period of three years in order to pass the lab exam. If the candidate fails to pass the lab exam within the period given, then that candidate must pass the CCIE written exam again.

132

Utilizing Rapidshare CCIE If you are on a quest to find the best files and other entertainment media on the internet, Rapidshare is your best choice. With its vast expanse of file coverage, you can be sure that you will find in it everything that you needed and everything that you wanted. Rapidshare increases the chances of you finding the most coveted files out there. In the same way, you can also be given the chance to share your multimedia files by means of Rapidshare. Apart from just files and other forms of media, Rapidshare takes things up a notch. Rapidshare CCIE is also now present for your certification needs. CCIE is one certification program which is very important among systems engineers. It empowers s. one s career in network systems and protocols. Because it is slowly becoming such a necessity among IT professionals, people would want to typically get their hands on some basic CCIE guidelines and information. Of course the best way to do this is through online means. Rapidshare CCIE works just to target that need. Because CCIE is a very technical certification, all means necessary to review for it must be done. Apart from technical exams, CCIE also consists of hands-on procedures aimed to test the person s knowledge when it comes to actual IT troubleshooting. Test labs such as these are available online, and with the use of Rapidshare CCIE such files will be easily made within reach. You can also share these files with people and you can upload other relevant materials through Rapidshare CCIE.

133

The Real CCIE Labs is the Real Way to Review Planning to take the CCIE exams is a big thing. First of all, making a decision to do so is such a big step because it does a lot to help promote a resume. The CCIE is an advanced form of Cisco certification and only individuals with a good amount of systems and network experience will have great chances of passing the certification exams. More than just a paper and pen type of exam, the CCIE also involves hands-on examinations which aim to test the actual knowledge of the test taker. Because of this, the real CCIE lab becomes anybody s ally when it comes to taking the said certification. The real CCIE lad contains everything a test taker needs to prepare his self because it simulates the environment of the real certification exam. Real CCIE labs include CCIE details such as Security, R and S, SP, and Voice protocols. In effect, the test taker becomes prepped up in full detail prior to taking the CCIE certification exams. These real CCIE labs are also offering flexible schedules especially for IT professionals who currently have busy schedules. Usually, applications to qualify for simulated lab reviews can be done online and the companies would issue passwords to qualified reviewers. In effect, reviewers have all the time in their hands and their busy lifestyles will not provide a hindrance when it comes to becoming CCIE certified. If you wanted to take a glimpse of what real CCIE labs are all about, there are lots of resources online which you can visit.