How many machines necessary to study for 70-210,215 and maybe 218?

[Calvenn]

Hello everyone,

I'm back again for some more advice. Basically, I plan on undertaking these exams (70-210,215, maybe 218) in the ensuing months and would like to know if it'd be adviceable to tackle all exams while utilizing only 2 machines, a Win2k advanced server desktop and win Xp/2k dual boot laptop client machine in this case.

As I stated earlier, I totally shifted my focus away from Microsoft to complete the CCNA and now realize that I'm lacking requisite knowledge due to this hiatus. For this reason, I'm on a mission to substantially improve my MS knowledge by dedicating additional time to performing practical exercises in my "mini" lab. I'm certain this will also pay dividends on the job and definately doesn't hurt my chances for possible future advancement opportunities, etc.

Anyhow, does it make any sense to proceed with the above approach if one is serious about building knowledge and ultimately passing the tests? Unfortunately, at the moment, I don't have access or should I say "the means" to purchase additional resources to improve my home lab in order to emulate a more complete network environment. I'm quite limited as you can imagine.

So, what do I need to look out for if I decide to stick with this setup for all 3 exa,, if that's even possible?

For my exam study material, I plan on using Syngress Osborne MCSE Win2k Professional/Server books, as well as Exam cram 2 Win2k Professional/Server for final review material. Anyone have any input on this?

I truly appreciate your dedication to assisting others and look forward to your insightful thoughts and advice. Thanks again.


MCP NT Server 4.0, CCNA



MCP NT Server 4.0, CCNA

 

[CluelessJon]

Bang the Exams out with BrainDumps. You can learn from books but if you dont experience it it soon dissapears. 90% of the cr@p you learn to pass these exams you probably will never use.

My advice is to get the EXAMS to get you a job then learn.

Regards

Jonno BrainDump Specialist
MCSE(NT) MCSA(2k) CCNA

 

[Nzarth]

This is why the IT industry is it such a state and that I talk to alot of individuals who havent a clue about AD and yet they are MCP/MCSA.

Calvenn what do you want out of studying? I know to brush up on your W2K knowledge or a certificate. If it is just W2K knowledge I would personally go for 210, 215 and 217. If you can stretch it to a fourth exam then maybe 216 as well.

From memory I think 218 was an exam that incorporated 210 and 215 together and was just a refresher and also made it easier for peeps to get their MCSE status as the exam is a breeze.

217 was the hardest exam I took thoughtout my W2K MCSE study.

Good Luck.

Now I am off to get my CCNA

 

[Nzarth]

Sorry I forgot to say that two machines should be fine:

One with W2K Server or Advanced
One with Windows 2000 Pro

If you had 3 machines would be perfect, but 2 machines is okay and with enough practise and testing you should fly through the exams

Good Luck.

 

[Calvenn]

I sincerely appreciate the different perspectives on this subject matter. Really gives me something to think about.

In regards to exam 70-218 (Managing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Network Environment), the reason for my interest lies with the fact that it is one of the core exams required to obtain MSCA status, which I will *probably* pursue down the line. The impetus for taking these exams is to both gain more knowledge and also obtain the certifications in the process.

Anyhow, if my current lab is adequate enough(Can't do too much with AD, etc) then I believe I'll take your suggestion and pursue 216 or 217 instead at this time, then tackle 218 when I'm able to setup a more comprehensive lab. I have quite a solid background with Tcp/ip, DNS, DHCP, NAT, etc, so whichever exam concentrates on this area is what I'll try to focus on. Will know after I do some more research.

Good luck on the CCNA. This exam will give you a strong networking foundation. If I could be of any assistance, let me know.

Thanks everyone!



MCP NT Server 4.0, CCNA

 

[Nzarth]

Trust me you will not need a more comprehensive lab for 218.

I took the exams in order (ie 210, 215, 216, 217). Like I said 217 was the hardest IMHO, but then I heard from fellow MCPers that 218 was easy and was like a refresher on the previous 4 exams.

I would not worry about your lab and I am sure it will be fine even if you go down the MCSE route.

Do not go down the braindump route as this will only gear you up for the exam and not the knowledge that may aid you in the real world.

Thanks for the CCNA offer

 

[kippy13]

Guys, there is a more suitable forum called Microsoft Certification and testing. You may get more replys and interest in there.

"Sometimes I do not know but I try hard"- R.F. Haughty 1923

 

[Calvenn]

After further research, 217 doesn't look like a good idea at this point. How did 216 go for you? The scope of this exam sounds very interesting, not to mention familiar. This would be my 3rd choice.

Thanks.

MCP NT Server 4.0, CCNA

 

[Calvenn]

Nzarth, just caught your reponse after I posted mine. Anyhow, no worries, I'm not considering braindumps, although I appreciate anyone's input. I was simply expressing that.

I took the same approach when undertaking the CCNA, and as you know, you can't easily braindump your way to this designation. As you say, the premise for taking these exams is to build practical and applicable knowledge. The first thing I did after completing the CCNA was to land a contract job upgrading 2650 routers and T1's for Target stores in my area. This approach has facilitated the process of gaining more real-world hands-on knowledge. It's obviously not the ultimate in gaining experience, but gives me the chance to perform work of this nature in some capacity.

Good to hear that my lab will be adequate for these exams. I was quite worried that I'd have some problems. I will keep you guys updated on my progress for sure.

For future posts regarding certifications, I will make sure to post to the appropriate board.

Good day all..

MCP NT Server 4.0, CCNA