News and Views from CCPrep.com

One of the things I have experience and success with is certifications. I have over the past 15 years achieved and maintained certifications from several vendors and associations. I have passed over 100 certification tests. I would like to offer my insight and a plan for achieving your certification.
 

1) Identify the prerequisites for the certification
2) Identify the exams to achieve the certification
3) Identify exam objectives
4) Identify training resources

(For example, CCNA certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, either pass the current CCNA exam, or pass the ICND2 exam, or pass any 642 professional level or Cisco Specialist exam (excluding Sales Specialist exams), or pass a current CCIE written exam.)

Instructor-led training is a excellent method of preparing for exams and ultimately certification. Instructor-led training combines the classroom environment to stimulate learning, Cisco learning materials, hands on labs, and an instructor as a valuable resource.
Whether standard length or bootcamp training is chosen, appropriate preparation insures getting the most out of the training. An example is the CCNA or CCNP Prep Centers which can assist the candidate in a variety of ways, with practice questions, labs, simulations, tips, discussion forums, videos, and advice from experts. For CCVP, start with Cisco Voice Fundamentals, a 6-hour e-learning course to establish a strong foundation in VoIP and PSTN fundamentals. If possible, establish a home lab to reinforce classroom learning. This can be done with a modest investment in routers and switches, or virtual options are available.
Instructor-led training is considered best because it facilitates real-time interaction, in-depth information sharing and direct response to questions. To get the most out of the classroom environment, be prepared.
 

1) Review materials before classroom presentation. This was allow you to be prepared with questions and to concentrate on the value added by the instructor.
2) Outline the content to condense the information that must be retained. Using Notepad or Microsoft Word to outline the courseware into a detailed, abbreviated document.
3) Repetition – Review the course materials or outline several times to catch information missed in previous readings. There are many additional techniques to enhance your ability to learn and remember. Visualization, attention to learning, associations, apply the information are some examples.
4) Do hands-on labs or create lab scenarios to become comfortable with commands, procedures and technology.
5) Use resources such as the Cisco web site and the Internet in general for technology articles where additional information is needed.
6) Use the test objectives (these are available for each test from the Cisco web site) as a measurement of understanding of course content and technologies.
 

There is a need for qualified professionals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to implement and operate Cisco solutions. The expertise you develop when preparing for the Cisco certifications adds to your skill set and helps you expand your career options by providing you with a professional level certification to validate your capabilities and readiness.