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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

School of Hard Knocks - IT Certification Bootcamps Go Bust As E-learning Advances

Software knowledge is crucially important to running a business in every imaginable field. Companies in each industry depend upon the software that runs their business. Retail stores, refineries, car dealerships, hospitals, and many other industries rely on software and the abilities of employees to leverage programs in every factor of business. The problem with this is that most software programs provide much more flexibility than the typical company needs. This results in frustration as employees must learn to become adept in various applications.

Software classes are the answer. There are live courses available for the most popular types of software programs. Today's companies send their key personnel to classes for Microsoft training, Cisco certification, and for expertise in several IT areas. This article provides the advantages of attending Microsoft classes (and other software classes) so that businesses get the most benefit from their software.

Customized To Fit The Needs Of The Company
The best way to learn to use software productively is by setting a goal. Business owners should know why they, and their employees, should become knowledgeable in a certain software program. For instance, taking Microsoft classes to learn about a SQL Server is a great idea, but without a clear purpose for how the knowledge will be used, it is difficult to gauge whether the class is beneficial. Knowing the goals for learning about certain software programs allows the trainers to make sure you get the most out of the class. They can customize the class to fit the needs of the company.

Fast Market Response
The environment of business changes daily. Procedures and processes taken for granted years ago are outdated today. Even Microsoft training courses offered two years ago require updating. This is also true for Oracle courses and Cisco certification classes. One of the most valuable advantages of sending employees to classes to learn about software programs is that experienced trainers are equipped to deliver knowledge relevant to current market dynamics. As the market dynamics change, the classes change.

Learning That Is Focused
Most business owners and executives are busy and they have limited time to sit and learn about a software program on their own. Cisco, Oracle, and Microsoft classes save time because they are focused on the most important needs. For instance, the database application, Access, is huge. Most people will never use and don't need to know 90% of the functionality of this program. Microsoft training instructors take the time to review the students' needs and will focus the class toward that direction.

Professional Teachers
Having access to professional teachers, well skilled in effectively presenting courses, are extremely valuable, whether you and your employees need focused Microsoft classes and Microsoft training, to become Cisco certified, earn a CCNA, or to learn Oracle 11g. Many times, they will have a unique perspective about an application they can offer to students. If you or an employee wants to know how to perform certain functions within a software program, the professional teachers will know.

Learning To Effectively Use Software
Learning to effectively use software can often be frustrating. Programs change quickly, "help" libraries aren't always helpful, and online tutorials rarely answer questions or provide the information needed. It can sometimes take hours to figure out how to perform one simple function within a software program. A class customized to the needs of the specific business addresses these concerns.

There are classes for numerous software applications, including Oracle's Audit Vault, Cisco, Microsoft training for Windows Vista, or Microsoft classes, Chicago, New York, or any other city. It is vital for today's businesses to look at software classes as a necessary solution to an ever-changing challenge.

About the Author: Christine O'Kelly provides useful articles for Directions Training, a leading provider of Microsoft training, Chicago is home to this innovative, results-oriented firm whose approach to Microsoft classes Chicago helps their clients boost productivity and performance.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_A._Harmen

Cisco CCNA (640-553) Security Exam Training - Using the Access-List Remark Command In today's article, I'm going to quickly inform you about the Cisco

In today's article, I'm going to quickly inform you about the Cisco IOS Global configuration command named "access-list remark".

CCNA's (like you) use the "access-list remark" command to write a helpful comment (remark) for an entry in a numbered IP access list.

Note: The comment (remark) can be up to 100 characters long; and any comment (remark) that is longer than 100 characters will be truncated.

Below is the command's syntax:
access-list access-list-number remark remark
As you can see, the command uses the access-list-number and remark arguments.
access-list-number - This argument is used to indicate the number of an IP access list.
remark - And, this argument is the actual comment (remark) that describes the access list entry. (Remember the comment (remark) has a limit of 100 characters)
Below is an example of the command being used:

Router>enable
Router#configure terminal
Router(config)#access-list 1 remark Only allow the abc workstation to get through
Router(config)#access-list 1 permit 172.69.2.98
Router(config)#access-list 1 remark Do not allow the xyz workstation to get through
Router(config)#access-list 1 deny 172.69.3.14
Router(config)#exit
Router#copy run start

In the example above, the workstation on the abc network that has the IP address 172.69.2.98 will be able to get its IP traffic through; but, the workstation that is on the xyz network that has the IP address 172.69.3.14 will not.
As you can clearly see, the access-list remark statements are commenting on the ACL behavior.
And, like with mostly all Cisco IOS commands; you can use the word "no" in front of the command to remove (disable) the configured command; like you see below:
Router(config)#no access-list 1 remark

By the way, if you decide to use the command, make sure your router(s) is running Cisco IOS 12.0(2)T or higher.

I hope this article was very informative and helped you quickly understand the usage of the access-list remark command. If you need to learn more; I suggest you visit my website, were you'll find the latest information regarding the Cisco CCNA (640-553) Security exam techniques.

To your success,
Charles Ross, CCNP #CSCO10444244 is the owner of Ittechtips.com; where you'll find free comprehensive information and videos on how to pass the CCNA (640-553) security exam.
Sign-Up for "100 Free Videos" and, also learn more about the new "Cisco CCNA (640-553) Video Accelerated Training Course" at his website. http://www.ittechtips.com
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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

CCNA Training Resource

Passing the CCNA exam is difficult and time-consuming. But it's not impossible. And above all, it doesn't have to be expensive to get the proper training prior to taking the test. The Internet and offline sources has many guides and aids to help you train for the test.

There are many online schools, companies, consulting group and forum sites that can offer powerful audio products to help train for the CCNA certification exam. Audio products are useful for people who are on the go, while commuting to work, while working out or even if you are sitting at your job. The CCNA training guides available cover every topic that will be on the test.
CCNA training material will include every topic on the certification test. As an example the basic of networking will be discussed. This concept includes the sharing of information between two computers. A hub is usually the devise that connects these two computers. The first step to secure communication between two computers is called name resolution. This process occurs through ENS, a popular method, or a host table. The process allows both computers to reach the IP address, causing the first step in the communication.

Now the IP address is able to communicate with each other, a conversion of the IP address much occur so both computers can reach the same code. This is called resolving the IP address to a MAC address or hardware address. The hardware address is built in by the manufacture. Typically network engineers can override these codes, but they most often they don't. The information allows both computers to be able to communicate with each other. The hub allows this communication to take place.

So that was an example of what CCNA training is all about. It's to help you understand the dynamic inter networking components that will allow you to prepare for the CCNA certification test.

There are tons of sources available to be able to continue your education and be able to certify yourself as a CCNA. The online realm includes many sources that offer audio products and guides, all designed for busy professionals to prepare themselves for the test. In additional, CCNA training shouldn't be expensive or difficult.

Get resources and videos on CCNA training and secure a wonderful career by studying CCNA training.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Alexia

Monday, September 7, 2009

Using IT Certification to Get a Job in IT

One question I often hear asked by people wanting to get an IT job is "how much will I earn if I get certification X", another is "What type of job can I get with certification X".

They are under the belief that achieving one of these certifications will get them a particular job role, or an increase in salary. Many assume that if they can pass an MCSA then they will be able to walk in to systems administrator role, or if they get a CCNA they will be able to easily get a role as a Cisco network admin. If these people have the necessary experience to backup these qualifications then I wish them all the best. However the people who usually ask these questions are the ones with no experience.

Quite often you will see adverts from training providers offering a training course for people wanting to get into IT with the promise of a £30K+ at the end of it. The sad truth is that unless you are extremely lucky the chances of this happening are very slim.

There are also instance of people cheating to get these certifications using "brain dumps", this is where people get hold of copies of the actual test questions and answers. This allows them to memorise the correct answers to pass the test. These people would quickly be found out in a job scenario and promptly fired.

Certification should not be perceived as a method to get a job, it should be used as method to validate existing experience. Interviewers will quickly be able to see whether you have the experience required for a role, and if you have the necessary knowledge to go with your qualifications.

Using certification to validate your existing experience and skills will certainly help when applying for a new role as the potential employer will be able to look at these certifications along with your previous job history to get a better picture of your talents.

I will cover the subject of how to best get your first job in IT in a future article.
http://www.mmmlordy.co.uk
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CCNA Certification Test

The CCNA certification test can be grueling for anyone, but it does not have to be the hardest test in the world and CCNA training doesn't have to be either. The potential that it provides for a network engineer is substantial. However, if you are not prepared for it, you might as well kiss your dreams of becoming involved in the Information technology world. In a fast paced environment, being a Cisco Certified Network Associate will not only bring you great opportunities for entry level networking jobs in the IT field, but also give you the information that you need in order to do your job competently.

It is recommended that you have at least some experience, around one year, in the networking field before you attempt to take the CCNA certification test. This experience will not only allow you to learn more about the hardware involved, but it will also allow you to learn about the different information that you will need to know on the test.

The certification test for a Cisco Certified Network Associate is actually two separate tests. These tests help measure your ability to grasp the general knowledge that it takes to work on a Cisco server as well as switches and routers. In order to pass the test successfully, you need to learn everything that you can about the hardware involved. That is why at least one year of experience in the IT or server management field is suggested before you take the certification test. In addition to your work experience, the CCNA training allocated to passing the test will allow the information to sink in for you. Don't hesitate to do some research on the internet, read CCNA books or check a CCNA boot camp. The options for you to prepare for the test are endless.
Once you have learned all the necessary information for the CCNA certification test, you will only have 90 minutes in order to put it onto paper. You need to manage your time well, because the test can be rather lengthy depending upon which version you are taking. After you have taken the test, and received your certification, you will need to take it again in order to be re-certified in three years. However, you will only need to take the second portion of the test, unless you want to take the entire test again.

The process of getting the CCNA Certification test is complex, but it is manageable and many people are doing it every year. Don't waste your time, do some research on the Internet, visit CCNA training blogs, CCNA boot camps from technical schools and other options to be able to pass the test.

Get information for CCNA training and tips how to handle a CCNA boot camp.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Alexia

Benefits of CCNA Certification

Today's software industries are in need of certified networking professionals, with excellent working knowledge of protocols like IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLAN's and the like, for installing, configuring, operating, maintaining, and trouble shooting LAN, WAN and other networks. If you are a software professional interested in networking, it is wise to grab the opportunity to grow your career with Cisco Certified Network Associate certification. It is easy to obtain this valuable CCNA certification with the help of online training institutes that offer comprehensive training and hands on experience to their students.

If you plan your career in networking CCNA certification becomes vital for your career growth. In order to be successful in your networking profession and to be viewed by the superiors as an asset to the company you must clear certification exams. For this you can approach any good online training institute that can help you get through the exams. Certified network engineers are perceived as highly skilled professionals by the employers. CCNA certification also imparts the most needed self confidence and self reliance for your career growth.

In order to get the best CCNA Certification training, you need to choose an excellent online training institute that can provide you with a solid foundation useful for both your exams and your profession. The easiest way to identify such online institutes is through their reputation. Most reputed online institutions and exams expert provide you with the complete study material and samples that could be of great use to you. While you can get vital information from your friends and colleagues, researching the internet for positive feed backs is also an efficient way to locate your favorite institute. Do personally check the customer care service of the online institutes and customer reviews before joining any of the online institutes that provide CCNA Certification training.

Visit us to get more information on topics like ccna certification practice questions and ccna certification training.
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Cisco CCNA - 10 Fatal Exam Mistakes to Avoid

The fact you are reading this means you are planning to take your Cisco CCNA or another Cisco exam in fact and just knowing that means you may fall victim to one of the 10 fatal exam mistakes. I can speak with some authority on exam mistakes because over the past 8 years I have made most of them myself.

Enough about me anyway. I have taken a lot of IT exams since I left the police including Comptia exams, the MCSE, CCNA and the CCNP among a few others. IT exams are usually taken at an approved testing centre who all have to follow set rules and procedures to ensure each candidate has a similar experience. The problem is that there are factors both outside and inside the centre which can make passing the exam far more difficult for you than it needs to be.

Without further ado, allow me to explain how to avoid the 10 fatal exam mistakes for your Cisco CCNA exam or any other IT exam for that matter.

Mistake 1 - Not Doing a Dry Run
I took an exam recently. It was at the same testing centre I have used over the past 6 years. The only problem was that when I arrived to take my test I parked outside the office block and went for a nice coffee safe in the knowledge that I had allowed myself a good 30 minutes before my allocated test time.

The problem was that when I went to the front door I read to my horror a sign saying that they had moved. I felt a surge of adrenaline rush through the pit of my stomach. Luckily, they had only moved to the other side of the same building. Even though, that experience was very unnerving and I was still a bit jittery when I walked into the centre.
Please make sure you know EXACTLY where your testing centre is and if necessary do a dry run before exam day.

Mistake 2 - Cram or Not to Cram
Do you drive to the exam testing centre with your cram notes in your pocket? I have done both, taking cram notes and not taking them. I can't tell you which is the right thing for you to do but my personal experience is that you should not take cram notes with you for a last minute read. Sitting in your car outside the testing centre trying to read notes with your hands shaking will not help your nerves. You would be better served listening to some relaxing music.

Mistake 3 - Not Reading Your Exam Confirmation
Would you believe that my friend turned up to take a Cisco exam a few years ago and when he sat in front of the computer he realized to his horror that he was taking the wrong exam! He was a clever guy as well. It was just that when he booked the exam he mistook a number and booked himself onto a specialist Cisco exam instead of the CCNP module he wanted. Strangely enough, he actually passed the exam as well!

It is so easy to book the wrong exam so please double check before you book. Please print out your exam confirmation and double check the exam code, the date, time and venue. Please also ensure you take your exam confirmation with you to the testing centre. I have turned up to take an exam in the past and was told that I was not expected that day or any other day in fact. If I hadn't taken my confirmation with me then I would have had to drive all the way home as well. Not good.

Mistake 4 - Caffeine
I love coffee. I am in Starbucks almost every day. But there is a price to pay and that is having to visit the toilet every 30 minutes. Most Cisco exams are 90 minutes long as from my experience, they take almost exactly 90 minutes to complete. If you have to visit the toilet twice then you have lost about 5 precious minutes in your exam which you can't afford to do.
I would avoid having any caffeinated drinks before your exam.

Mistake 5 - Not Reading the Questions
I know you are not daft and can read perfectly well. I have done this myself though, I read the question on the exam but due to nerves and pressure of time I see the question I want to be there. Our eyes are basically scanning tools and the brain performs some sort of auto-complete as we read any text.

The auto-complete feature is not very useful when it comes to exams. Please read the question twice before looking at the answers.

Mistake 6 - Trying to Beat the Clock
That pesky clock sits in the corner of your computer screen silently taunting you as you sit there reading the questions. It might as well be a movie of sand falling through an egg timer.
The clock is a useful tool of course but don't let it pressure you to going faster than you can. The next few questions could be very simple ones such as port numbers rather than multi-step router configurations or 5 part troubleshooting scenarios. Use the clock to keep yourself on track but don't let it make you rush your answers.

Mistake 7 - Panicking
Exam nerves are very common and a little stress is good. What I find when I speak to many CCNA exam candidates is that they are experiencing symptoms such as shaking hands, excessive visits to toilets, blurred vision, memory loss and even tears!
I know how you feel because as a former police officer I have experienced terrible stress and nerves. Try having a gun pointed in your face! If you feel that exam nerves are going to affect your performance then please get help early. I recommend relaxation downloads. Find a reputable hypnosis downloads website and download some inductions for a few dollars. Money well spent. Please also see mistake 10.

Mistake 8 - Not Booking the Exam!
Do you know how many people I know who tell me that they are going to book their exam 'When I Feel Ready.' If I could comment on this situation. You will never feel 'ready' so you might as well book the exam now. Book it for a few weeks time and put the date into your diary. You can always move it back if you get to a few days away and are not adequately prepared.
Your brain is a goal seeking organism and if you have no firm goal set then you will yourself getting distracted or side tracked with the usual things life throws at you. For this reason I strongly recommend booking your exam date, even if you are just starting out with your studies.

Mistake 9 - Making a Fuss
When I took a Cisco exam recently the simulation software did not load correctly. I had to configure a router but the router prompt was below the window on the screen so I couldn't see what I was typing! Talk about difficult. I had to type commands and then press enter several times to see what I had typed finally appear in the window.

I pointed out the issue to the exam invigilator so I had a witness. She didn't have an suggestions for me and told me to fill in a box on the screen pointing out the issue to Cisco. There was no point shouting at her or demanding refunds. She was just there to set up my exam and enforce the rules about cheating.

I actually passed that exam which was a surprise to me but had I failed I'm sure Cisco would have given me a refund and I had a witness to the issue as well.

The wrong approach would have been to argue with the invigilator, to make a scene or even to refused to finish off the exam. If you see issues with the questions in your exam or experience similar issues then make a note on the screen which will be sent to Cisco, tell the invigilator if you need to and then continue. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Mistake 10 - Taking it Too Seriously

In know it is important to you but in the grand scheme of things it is only an exam! The most important things are you health, your family and God. Failing an exam will not be the end of the world.

Over the past few years I have failed exams, driving tests, job interviews and several other things which seemed important at the time. I even failed the CCIE lab once and that cost me $1500 plus air fare. Ouch! I just retook anything I failed or worked out other things I wanted to do instead.

If you do fail an exam then well done, at least you had a crack at it. Write down an action plan to tackle your weak areas and book it again. Everyone in the world fails at something important and you are no exception.
Conclusion

Keep a cool head and plan your exam in advance to give yourself the best chances of success. Treat the exam as a project and be serious about passing and at the same time, if you are not successful then give yourself a break, you are only human and anything worth passing is going to be hard by its very nature.

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Paul Browning and I run my own IT training company in the UK and I also own an online Cisco certification resource site called http://www.howtonetwork.net I used the CCNA exam to help me leave my career as a police officer in the UK and get my first role as a network support engineer.
Paul Browning - CCNP, MCSE

Paul is the creator of the Cisco CCNA Training Site http://www.howtonetwork.net so please come and visit us and enjoy some free CCNA study tools.
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