CCNA & Network+?

[Nestor]

As we all know, CISCO have updated their CCNA & CCNP qualifications. I have my CompTIA A+, Net+ & Sec+ and a couple of years of being a technician behind me. I really want to get stuck into one of the new CCNP paths.

 

If I want to go for one of the new CCNP certs should I do my CCNA first? When I look at the exam contents for the new CCNA it looks pretty similar to the Network + and I don't want to waste time & money getting essentially the same cert twice. But on the other hand I don't want to invest time in the CCNP only to find that I'm way out of my depth.

 

Any advice would be much appreciated.

[FN-GM]

Unless the new exams have changed a prerequisite of the CCNP is gaining the CCNA.

[Nestor]

It used to be, but with the new versions you don't need the CCNA first. I want to just go for the CCNP but worried that without the CCNA it will be too difficult.

[dmartin1018]

Only you know how proficient you are with networking. From what you've said, you have N+ which gives you a good foundation. You also said you have a couple of years experience as a techie. Does your network manager allow you access to the switches and if so, have you gained much experience configuring them? If the answer to either of those questions is no, then maybe you're better going for CCNA first. Either way, getting CCNA first will maximise your chances of doing well with CCNP, it certainly wouldn't be a waste of time.

[RobD]

I didn't think network+ covered routing protocols? Personally I'd do the ccna, it'll get you used to the Cisco mentality. I'm really keen to do a ccnp too, can't decide what material to use but I have installed EVE-NG (free one) which is brilliant as a equipment simulator.

[Nestor]

Thanks, our switches are really only touched the Network Manager. Based on the research I've done I think that I'd be better served by doing the CCNA first.