The CCNA qualification is the usual starting point for all Cisco training. With it, you’ll learn how to operate on the maintenance and installation of routers. The internet is made up of many routers, and many large organisations who have various regional departments rely on them to allow their networks to keep in touch.
To take this course, you should be clear on the operation and function of computer networks, as networks are connected to routers. Otherwise, you’ll probably struggle. You might first take a course in the basics (CompTIA Network+ as an example – maybe with the A+ as well) and then do a CCNA course. Some companies will design a bespoke package for you.
Having the right skills and knowledge before commencing your Cisco training is crucial. Therefore, discuss the requirements expected of you with someone who can tell you what else you need to know.
The way a programme is physically sent to you is usually ignored by most students. How many stages do they break the program into? What is the specific order and how fast does each element come?
Many think it logical (with a typical time scale of 1-3 years to gain full certified status,) that a training provider will issue a single section at a time, until you’ve passed all the exams. Although:
What if you don’t finish all the sections or exams? Maybe the prescribed order won’t suit you? Due to no fault of yours, you may go a little slower and therefore not end up with all the modules.
To avoid any potential future issues, it’s normal for most trainees to have all their training materials (which they’ve now paid for) delivered immediately, and not in stages. It’s then up to you in which order and at what speed you want to work.
A capable and professional consultant (in contrast with a salesperson) will ask questions and seek to comprehend your current experience level and abilities. This is paramount to calculating the starting point for your education.
With a little real-world experience or certification, you could discover that your appropriate starting-point is now at a different level to a new student.
If you’re a new trainee commencing IT study from scratch, it can be helpful to avoid jumping in at the deep-end, starting with some basic PC skills training first. This can be built into most accreditation programs.
The world of information technology is amongst the most thrilling and changing industries that you can get into right now. To be working on the cutting-edge of technology puts you at the fore-front of developments that will impact the whole world for generations to come.
We’ve only just begun to get a feel for how technology will influence everything we do. Computers and the web will massively revolutionise how we view and interrelate with the world around us over the next few years.
If making decent money is high on your list of priorities, then you will appreciate the fact that the income on average of a typical IT worker is considerably higher than salaries in the rest of the economy.
It’s no secret that there is a substantial national requirement for professionally qualified IT workers. In addition, with the constant growth in the marketplace, it appears this pattern will continue for quite some time to come.
Usually, trainers will provide a big box of books. This isn’t very interesting and not a very good way of remembering.
Where possible, if we can involve all our senses in the learning process, then we normally see dramatically better results.
The latest audio-visual interactive programs with demonstrations and practice sessions will turn you off book-based study for ever more. And they’re far more fun.
Be sure to get a look at some courseware examples from the school that you’re considering. The package should contain expert-led demonstrations, slideshows and virtual practice lab’s for your new skills.
Plump for physical media such as CD or DVD ROM’s every time. You’re then protected from broadband ‘downtime’ or slow-speeds.
(C) S. Edwards 2009. Look at Cisco CCNA or Click HERE.
