CCNA - CCNA exam information

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CCNA exam information

archie123

2003-11-13, 3:17 pm

Hello,

I am planning to take the CCNA certification examination. I am confused about the 640-801, 640-811, etc numbers. As I understand, they differ in the syllabus. Could anyone tell me more about it and give sugggestion as to which of all the now available is better. Also any suggestions regarding the materials or specific notes to follow for this exam are welcome.

OHCCNP2003

2003-11-13, 5:10 pm

Cisco now allows you to take the CCNA exam either in it's entirety with 640-801, or to break it down into two parts with 640-811 and 640-821. The 640-821 is still apparently a beta exam at this time and is listed as 641-821. Following either course will get you your CCNA. You will have to decide which approach is best for you.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/learning/le3/le2/le0/le9/ learning_certification_type_ho
me.html

You can read exam reviews at:

http://www.tcpmag.com/exams

Both Cisco Press and Sybex have books out for the new CCNA exam. Cisco Press has two books by Wendell Odom that covers the two exam approach to becoming a CCNA. Sybex offers a single book covering all topics, as well as a new virtual lab that will give you some electronic hands on labs to go along with their book. The Sybex books are usually easier to plow your way through, but don't contain as much information as the Cisco Press books. For practicing what you have learned, you might also check out the products available from Boson and routersim. I would also recommend obtaining a Cisco router to practice with. The simulation software is O.K., but you can't beat actually working with the product.

archie123

2003-11-19, 11:06 am

OHCCNP2003, Thank you for the information. This is very useful.

archie123

2003-11-19, 12:15 pm

I have reviewed the CCNA 601-801 and (601-811 & 601-821) although the introductory part is same in the both the courses, the second part, of 601-801 is different from 601-811. I wanted to know if there is any specific advantage of taking one exam(601-801) over the other set ( 601-821 & 601-811). Or both are of the same value?

OHCCNP2003

2003-11-19, 1:42 pm

In Cisco terms, 640-801 = 640-811 + 640-821. Either way, you still end up with the same thing, your CCNA certification.

One advantage to taking the single exam is that it costs less, assuming that you pass the exam on the first try. Buy and study the two Cisco Press books that cover the 640-801 exam, and then take some practice tests to gauge your readiness for the exam.

The advantage to taking the exam in two parts is that it allows you to concentrate more heavily on a smaller number of exam topics. If you are new to the wonderful world of Cisco, this might be the best course to pursue.

The good thing about Cisco exams (unlike Microsoft) is that the material covered in the Cisco Press study guides is sufficient to pass the exams. Don't let yourself become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of material that the exam covers. After studying for awhile, it will begin to make sense.

Whichever path you decide to pursue, good luck.

archie123

2003-11-27, 5:12 pm

Hello,

Will the following book suffice for the ccna preparation?

CCNA Certification Library (CCNA Self-Study, exam #640-801), Sixth Edition -- by Wendell Odom (Author);

Also could you kindly let me know the ideal amount of time for exam preparation?

Thanks.

OHCCNP2003

2003-11-29, 9:14 pm

Your choice of study material sounds fine to me. Since the latest Cisco Press CCNA library includes simulation software, you should be all set.

Study time is something that is unique to each individual. Study at your own pace, until you feel you have a good grasp of the concepts.

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