Rob- I think it is feasible without the 10 years experience working for an ISP. In fact, I've been working with Cisco equipment off and on at first, but then more consistently for the past 6 years. I took my time in completing my CCNP (almost 2 years from the point of CCNA), and probably could have gotten it sooner if I had really applied myself.
For the CCIE, this discussion has been mulled over at least 4 times in the past 6 months. The bottom line is, half of the CCIE preparation is book-study... pure "Cisco" Academics. But the other half is real experience working on the equipment for a considerable amount of time, whether it be more in production and less in lab racks, or vice versa. One of the list contributors (NRF) I'm sure will comment on his definition of "Lab Rat", and how he believes that a considerable amount of employers are not interested in Lab Rats for CCIE's**. It's a catch 22 in this respect, of which I'm sure you can already understand. ** no need to rehash this topic NRF :) Personally, I think you can reasonably obtain the CCIE in 18 months, and really be a well developed CCIE. Do keep in mind though, the CCIE is not the top of the mountain, but rather just one of the summits in your career. You WILL need to keep learning, and it is up to you if you decide to continue participating in the Vendor Certification game. Just my .00000010 Good luck on your studies. Mark Odette II CCNP, MCSE 4.0/2K, A+ Certified. -----Original Message----- From: Robert D. Cluett [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Tuesday, July 30, 2002 11:30 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: CCIE Experiences? My Road Ahead... [7:50139] All (CCIE's and CCIE Written) I was wondering if you could help me understand what it is I am in for. I have 3 years of experience at tier 3 IP support with Verizon. OSPF mostly. I have experience with various Cisco and Nortel routers and switches. My question is this, knowing OSPF and circuit troublshooting is excellent knowledge, but I know that is only a fraction of what the CCIE demands. I recently passed the CCNA, and have jumped into the studying for the routing exam. The only thing which seems tough is the BGP (I have not touched it before). So, my question is, what can I expect from this road ahead. Is it feasable to eventually obtain my CCIE or is the CCIE for those people who have the 10 years of experience working for an ISP? Any advice would help! Rob Cluett, CCNA Message Posted at: http://www.groupstudy.com/form/read.php?f=7&i=50146&t=50139 -------------------------------------------------- FAQ, list archives, and subscription info: http://www.groupstudy.com/list/cisco.html Report misconduct and Nondisclosure violations to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
