Register a SA Forums Account here!
JOINING THE SA FORUMS WILL REMOVE THIS BIG AD, THE ANNOYING UNDERLINED ADS, AND STUPID INTERSTITIAL ADS!!!

You can: log in, read the tech support FAQ, or request your lost password. This dumb message (and those ads) will appear on every screen until you register! Get rid of this crap by registering your own SA Forums Account and joining roughly 150,000 Goons, for the one-time price of $9.95! We charge money because it costs us money per month for bills, and since we don't believe in showing ads to our users, we try to make the money back through forum registrations.
 
  • Post
  • Reply
FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Should I bother with Network+ if I'm going to go for CCNA anyways? My local community college is doing a N+ course this semester but Cisco won't start until the next.

Work pays for classes and testing but I'm just wondering if it's redundant. My networking experience is limited to what I learned 10+ years ago in high school and general dicking around at work.

Adbot
ADBOT LOVES YOU

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Science posted:

I might be mis-remembering, but I think one of the previous versions of this thread had a recommended vendor for CompTIA vouchers. Does anyone have this bookmarked? I can't seem to find it anywhere and almost every site I find through Google looks sketchy.

Does anyone have an answer to this? I need to also pickup some vouchers before the end of the year.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Going to be going to WGU in July for BSIT - Security track (the CCNA one). I have an AS in Computer Science that should transfer.

I know a few guys posted in here about a year ago that it was a good track, any regrets from anyone? I'm working at a tech company in QA right now and have a lot of downtime at work where I could knock this stuff out quick.

Also, they introduced a new Cybersecurity and Information Assurance BS that tracks into their Masters program. Any thoughts on this program instead?
https://www.wgu.edu/online_it_degrees/cybersecurity_information_assurance_bachelor_degree

Certs Earned:
  • Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) – Associate of (ISC)² designation
  • Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) – Associate of (ISC)² designation
  • Certified Encryption Specialist (EC-Council ECES)
  • Certified Incident Handler (EC-Council ECIH)
  • Certified Internet Webmaster – Site Development Associate (CIW-SDA)
  • Certified Internet Webmaster – Web Security Associate (CIW-WSA)
  • A+ (CompTIA)
  • Network+ (CompTIA)
  • Security+ (CompTIA)
  • Project+ (CompTIA)
  • ITIL® Foundation

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Tab8715 posted:

That's good but certifications complement your education. What are the classes in the curriculum?

They're at the link on the site. Program goes live in June I believe.

Program Guide PDF

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Solaron posted:

I hadn't even looked at the BS - I'd assumed the certs and skills would be similar. That's a significant difference, and I definitely agree that the certs are a lot more inline with what I'm looking for. I'm fairly certain I can get work to foot the bill for a second BS since it's directly related to my job title.

What has your experience been with WGU? And the training/education is quality?

I'm married, have a house full of kids (bio and foster) and a full-time job so I want to make sure I wouldn't drown under the workload or something. My last experience with college was a while ago now and WGU seems to have a different setup.

The BS in Cyber Security and Information Assurance was just announced a few weeks ago and isn't open for enrollment yet. I think they're looking at a June time frame.
I don't think anyone has seen the course material on that particular program yet.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

AlternateAccount posted:

Huh, I wonder if I should look into transferring from the other BS IT - Security.

There's a few people that are looking at doing just that but I'm probably going to wait until we get some people who have made it through the program.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

How does one "get clearance" if you've never worked for govt.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

BTW I just got accepted to WGU BS-IT Sec with 50% transferred in so I should be scooping up some certs real soon.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Judge Schnoopy posted:

2 more classes to finish up WGU, then I'm taking a massive loving break from studying. I've been studying for certs since just before I started my career (almost 4 years, 8 certs) and need to be done for a while. Once I get supremely bored at work I'll re-evaluate, but probably CCNP R&S because networking is my poo poo.

Are you doing IT Sec at WGU?

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Any point in doing the Comptia certs in any particular order? I'm doing WGU and will be getting the A+, Linux+, Network+ and Security+ (and Project+ i guess). I just did the A+ and was going to work on Linux+ next then Network+ and Security+, but they suggest working on Network+ before starting Linux+

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Judge Schnoopy posted:

Linux+ is the hardest one so you'll be better to leave that one for later, when you have a lot more background knowledge in other subjects.

It's the only cert I failed the first time, and the second time was not sunshine and roses either.

I took a Linux class at the local CC but then waited a year after passing before attempting the Linux+ and failed spectacularly.
I've had more experience such then but yeah, I might hold off on that one until later then.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

I'm doing A+ right now, just fished hardware and taking software on Monday.

Professor Messer is really good if you're looking for some video-based learning. He goes through the material very clearly and at a fast enough pace where you won't get bored. He also has two study guides for purchase for $10 each that are pretty good for review and memorization if that's your thing.

He also does a Youtube Live every week on his youtube channel where you can ask him questions directly. Highly recommended.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Welp not feeling very excited about pursuing a network admin degree now.

Maybe I should just go software dev instead.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

milk milk lemonade posted:

I don't know wtf a 'network admin' degree is but if your choice is between that and being a dev and you chose that you hosed up

I haven't set a concrete path yet, I'm still getting a feel for what I wanna do.

I am employed as a QA Technician for a hardware company. I work with automated windows scripting just running tests on PC components. The job is good, especially for someone with no degree, but I'm hitting the promotion ceiling. I did 4 years at the community college getting my AS in Computer Languages (there was no CS until I finished, they just added an assembly class) and through the process I realized I liked hand-on stuff more than just programming all day.

I just started WGU in July and went with the BS -IT Security track (which is mainly networking) because it a) seems like it would be more hand-on type work and b) comes with a bunch of certs that would boost my education. I studied the IT - Software Dev track which seems decent but has no industry certs or anything behind it.

I guess my concern is that I'm not really "in IT" where I am now. If I do go looking for a job related to my degree and certs I'd probably be starting at or near entry level positions, maybe in an IT position not related to my education. I have tons of experience "with computers" but vendor specific stuff is out of my scope. Where if I go down the software dev track, it's an easier transition from QA automation technician to QA automation engineer, where I start writing the tests that I'm running now.

Work is paying for all of this so the only thing it's costing me is time.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Speaking of WGU, they just got rid of/modified their BS IT- Security track a couple days ago. It's now called "BS Network Operations and Security"

https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/information-technology-security-network-administration-bachelors-program

They've also changed the certifications in the program:

- They dropped Linux+, I'm assuming because it was too difficult for most students. In it's place they have the "CompTIA Linux Essentials" certificate which is real introductory stuff
- They dropped the second database course from their track and added a ... "Emerging Technologies" course?
- They added a "CompTIA Cloud Essentials" certificate
- They've also added the CCDA "Cisco Certified Design Associate" certificate
- Some small certificates to their coursework like ITIL Foundations and CIW-SDA

I'm in the BS - IT Security program and am in the middle of getting my Linux+, might switch over to this track in December just for the cloud class and the name

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Judge Schnoopy posted:

Hey y'all I just graduated wgu's it security track today. Feels really loving good to complete a bachelors after dropping out of a state university 10 years ago.

Congrats!

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

MrBigglesworth posted:

Was working CCNP SWITCH so I will continue with that. Then possibly renew Sec+ then finish up ROUTE and TSHOOT. Bonus is that I will be cc debt free in about 45 days too with severance package. Save a bunch on first 2 months of job and replace my 99 Altima with a new car.

hell yeah

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Portland Sucks posted:

I'm a software developer with a CS major and I'm tired of not knowing about basic networking principals. Where's a good consolidated place to start learning about things like what the heck a domain controller is, which subnet am I on???, what a packet is, and why you sniff them? I'm used to getting stuff crammed into my face 3 months at a time so if theres a fantastic online course around that could assist me even better.

Professor Messer’s online videos for the Network+ Exam are a good place to start. You can go through the whole playlist or pick and choose the subjects that interest you.

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG49S3nxzAnnXcPUJbwikr2xAcmKljbnQ

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

I’m studying for Net+ right now and there’s a paragraph on War Chalking, where hackers leave hobo code to designate open access points

Most of the material is good but there’s a few odd standouts lol

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Just got my Network+ yesterday. Spent majority of my study time getting CIDR notation down then only got one measly question about it, but 20 questions about properties of fiber optic lines. Pretty annoying.

Next up is ... Project+?!?!?! :suicide:

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Judge Schnoopy posted:

Are you doing the WGU track?

Project+ is OK. It's a super surface-level look into PMBOK. A majority of questions are either A) Determining which phase a certain step would fall under, by definition, and B) calculating indexes based on formulas. The rest is a bunch of fluff with extremely corporate-feelgood answers.

To its defense I've used more knowledge from the project+ cert at my job than I have any other CompTIA cert, because writing a formal project proposal is the quickest way to kill shadow IT initiatives.

Sure am. I have Project+, Security+ and CCNA left to go. Hope to be done by July.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Passed Project+ today. What a dumb exam.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

DotyManX posted:

Hey everyone, I mostly just lurk around the forums, but I just passed my CCNA this morning and was able to get myself a new job; going from a guard in a jail to a system support tech. This thread has been great for advice and motivation, so thanks goons! :toot:

This is hopefully going to be my move in the next year or so. Congrats!

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

TsarZiedonis posted:

Hey! I've been working myself up at my MSP for four years (stared at helpdesk 1) and I'm finally looking to grab some CompTIA certifications before I apply elsewhere. I powered through the Professor Messer YouTube series on Network+ while taking copious amounts of notes, and now I'm taking practice tests from a guidebook. How prepared do you guys think that would make me to take the exam, and are there any particular areas that stuck out to you as needing additional focus?

Thanks!

I just did the Network+ a few months ago, CIDR wasn't really on there at all so don't sweat it too much.

Memorize the number of collision and broadcast domains for each network device and when to use a crossover cable, straight through cable or serial cable.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Maybe she went to the Community College of Northern Alaska didn’t know where to put it on the resume

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Does your work have any type of employer access through Lynda/Pluralsight/ITProTV that you can use?

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Interesting $50/mo isn’t bad if it’s go at your own pace and you can blow through a lot of the lower level stuff.

Stuff like automating IT functions is probably a good refresher too.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

My buddy just signed up for the Google IT Coursera course (they offer a free 7-day trial) and it's pretty structured. You have weekly video series and have quizzes and grades that are due once a week. You can easily accelerate through everything, but if you think you're going to just pop in and out of this course you'll have a bad time.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Adjectivist Philosophy posted:

Sounds like my employer has caught the same bug everyone else's has and they are keen on me getting the Security+, which is fine by me since they are paying and my A+/Net+ are expiring soon. I feel the same senseless attachment to them as well.

I used the All-in-one books for A+/Net+ years ago and felt they were sufficient for both, is the All-in-one still good enough for the Sec+, or is there some new hotness? For people who have taken it recently, how does the difficulty compare with the Net+?

I'm working on Sec+ starting tomorrow and everyone says the Gibson book is the one to get. Kindle version is only $10
https://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Security-Certified-Ahead-SY0-401/dp/1939136024/

He has additional training material on his site with practice exams and simulations as well.
http://getcertifiedgetahead.com/index.php/security-sy0-401/

You have until July to test for 401, otherwise you'll need to study for 501.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Got my Security+ :stoked:

On to Cisco ICND1 now


As an aside, WGU is finally adding a full fledged CS program in June. Their degree plan just got published and they're looking to be ABET accredited too
https://m.wgu.edu/content/dam/western-governors/documents/programguides/2017-guides/it/BSCS.pdf

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

N+ will give you a good foundation for understanding the Sec+ basics so it’s not a bad idea.

For Sec+ I highly recommend Darrel Gibson’s book and premium site. His performance questions were exactly like the test. Should run you $50 for everything if you get the kindle version.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Working on ICND1 too. Did you use boson stuff at all?

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Lets Get Patchy posted:

Passed the Sec+ 401 cert yesterday. I know it's a babby cert but I'm still pretty proud. I'll probably take a breather for a few weeks and start on MCSA Server 2012. We're going over the Network and Identity portions in my advanced admin class so may as well.

Congrats! The Sec+ is seen as the most valuable of the CompTIA certs so you should be proud.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

I did my Sec+ last month. Took me a little under a month from start to finish. Could be done faster or slower depending on your experience, I already had the Net+. I read about a chapter a day, Mon-Fri, probably 2-4 hours/day into it.

I used Gibson's book. Kindle version is only $10. Not too dry, material is presented in a good format and easy to understand.
https://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Security-Certified-Ahead-SY0-401/dp/1939136024/

He has additional training material on his site with practice exams and simulations as well. I used these to do the simulations and practice exams, I didn't bother with the flashcard or audiobooks. Two of the simulations I got on the exam were exactly the same on the test (except certain values changed).
http://getcertifiedgetahead.com/index.php/security-sy0-401/

I paid $40 for the additional material. Total cost was $50 plus whatever your exam voucher would be.

If you're a visual learner, I used Professor Messer's video series to help me understand any concepts I couldn't quite grasp. His whole video series is available for free on YouTube
https://www.professormesser.com/security-plus/sy0-401/sy0-401-course-index/

You have until July to test for 401, otherwise you'll need to study for 501.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Dr. Arbitrary posted:

Don't overdo it though. Maybe the test has changed, but it's probably the easiest cert I've taken.

Sec+ was probably the second hardest I’ve taken (behind Linux+) :shrug:

It all depends on your current knowledge of networking concepts and how much you already know. If you already know networking well then that’s half the test but if you’re going in cold then it’s a lot of material to cover in a small span.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

flatpack flapjack posted:

This is helpful information. I plan on taking a spin thru Messer's material, and I'll definitely spend some time brushing up on my networking. Suddenly starting to wish I hadn't sold my Network Security textbook back to the bookstore :negative:

Thanks all!

If you're wrapping up your associates in cybersecurity then yeah you should be able to breeze through the Sec+ fairly easily.

I just took the Sec+ a few months ago and I still have some of the practice test questions and eboosk from what I used. PM and I can send them to you to review what type of material you'd expect from the exam.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

AnonymousNarcotics posted:

Vista? My prof just told us we need to know the boot process for xp :wtc:

XP is still the 3rd most popular OS worldwide. :smith:

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

I’m in the Bryant Advantage CCNA course on Udemy right now. It’s ok, he covers the material pretty well, but it’s mostly just him talking over text slides so if you are a more visual learner that needs diagrams or examples of real world equipment this course doesn’t have much of that.

If you’re already in networking and familiar with the equipment then it should be fine. The entire course is $11 on Udemy.

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

AnonymousNarcotics posted:

I'm taking the A+ 901 next week and 902 the week after. Any words of advice?

Prof. Messer videos and cheat sheet to brush up your knowledge if you haven't looked at that yet.

Kashuno posted:

Warchalking is the drawing of symbols in public places to advertise an open Wi-Fi network. Inspired by hobo symbols, the warchalking marks were conceived by a group of friends in June 2002 and publicised by Matt Jones who designed the set of icons and produced a downloadable document containing them

lol

Adbot
ADBOT LOVES YOU

FCKGW
May 21, 2006

Passed ICND1. My section scores don't add up to what my final score was but I'm guessing I did better on the simulation and simlet stuff that probably carries a higher weight than a straight multiple choice question. Didn't realize their simulations blocked the "show running-config" and "show cdp neighbors" command that I had available in my Boson simulated tests but I was able to power through.

On to ICND2.

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • Post
  • Reply