CCNP(R) Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) [Paperback]

Justin Menga (Author)

Book Description

Series: Practical Studies | Publication Date: October 18, 2003

Gain necessary hands-on experience implementing CCNP BCMSN concepts with this practical lab guide

• Lab configurations include explanations of equipment set-up and execution
• Valuable reference tool for Catalyst switches, including shortcuts, caveats, and application of the most advanced features
• Real-world scenarios represent the whole range of CCNP BCMSN 642-811 exam topics

CCNP Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) provides CCNP candidates with an in-depth, hands-on experience in configuring Cisco Catalyst switches. This practical guide shows intermediate level networkers how to apply the theoretical knowledge they have gained through CCNP coursework and exam preparation. Configuration labs performed within this book will cover all technologies tested on the BCMSN 642-811 exam, as well as a number of real world scenarios that will test users' overall understanding of multilayer switching. The labs come complete with full explanations, highlighting why the chosen commands and techniques are recommended.

In addition to applicable labs, this book also provides general information on various switching technologies, as well as tips, tricks, shortcuts, and caveats for deploying Cisco switching gear in production environments. This book also includes exercises (similar to traditional mathematics exercises) that will help readers internalize, practice, and memorize certain concepts and thought processes necessary to successfully deploy a switched network.

Part of the Practical Studies series from the Cisco Press, CCNP Practical Studies: Switching provides self-study based hands-on experience. As such, it can be used in conjunction with other Cisco Press titles and is an excellent companion to instructor-led training from a Cisco Learning Partner.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Gain necessary hands-on experience implementing CCNP Switching concepts with this practical lab guide

* Prepare for the CCNP Switching exam through hands-on application of concepts
* Lab configurations complete with explanations of equipment set-up and execution
* Valuable reference tool for Catalyst switches including short cuts, caveats, and application of the most advanced features
* Real-world scenarios representing the whole range of CCNP Switching topics

CCNP Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) provides CCNP candidates with an in-depth, hands-on experience in configuring Cisco Catalyst switches. This practical guide shows intermediate level networkers how to apply the theoretical knowledge they have gained through CCNP Coursework and exam preparation. Configuration labs performed within this book will cover all technologies tested upon in Switching exam #640-604, as well as a number of real world scenarios that will test the users overall understanding of multilayer switching. The labs come complete with full explanations, highlighting why the chosen commands and techniques are recommended.

In addition to applicable labs this book also provides some general information on various switching technologies to bridge gaps in the BCMSN course as well as tips, tricks, shortcuts, and caveats for deploying Cisco switching gear in production environments. This book also includes exercises (similar to traditional mathematics exercises) which will help readers internalize, practice, and memorize certain concepts and thought processes necessary to successfully deploying a switched network.

Part of the Practical Studies series from the Cisco Press, this book provides self-study based hands-on experience. As such, it can be used in conjunction with other Cisco Press titles as well as being an excellent companion to instructor led training from a Cisco Learning Partner.

About the Author

Justin Menga, CCIE No. 6640, is a Network Solutions Architect for Compaq Computer NZ in the Wireless and E-Infrastructure unit of Compaq Professional services and has over five years experience in the IT industry. Mr. Menga is responsible for the design, implementation, and expert-level support of complex networking, security and voice solutions for enterprise customers and service providers.

Product Details

• Paperback: 984 pages
• Publisher: Cisco Press (October 18, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1587200600
• ISBN-13: 978-1587200601
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.3 x 1.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.9 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,461,077 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Reference For Cisco Switching, October 28, 2003

By 

Shahid Shafi (San Diego) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: CCNP(R) Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) (Paperback)

Do you guys remember Cisco LAN Switching by Clark Hamilton? That book is considered switching bible in networking industry. Now I'll say if you are dealing with Cisco switching in 2003 than this is your bible! This book discusses all new advancements in switching in depth. Justin's hard work is evident in every chapter and he must have put lot of effort in coming up with this book. Hands on labs are just awesome! For those labs only, I'll pay 50 bucks! The book covers all topics like VLAN, STP, VTP, Layer3 Switching, InterVlan Routing and QOS in detail. Clear and Precise diagrams are provided to aid your understanding. CatOS and IOS both get well deserved coverage. Author is not limited to any one switching platform in his examples but he is using 6500s with SUPS, 4500s, 3550 et al. Even hard to find topics like when to use MLS and CEF is discussed in amazing detail. The title is misleading, this book is way too advanced for CCNPs but it is a must-have resource for CCIE lab and field. If you are already a CCIE and might feel you don't need it, think again! This is one of those books which will always find special place in your bookshelf like Jeff Doyle, Richard Stevens. I can't say enough but it is simply a fantastic effort by Justin and Cisco Press. Five Stars!

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Hire an editor for crying out loud!!!, May 7, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: CCNP(R) Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) (Paperback)

This book is a great book. Doesn't get any deeper than this, but I had a very hard time with the figures and the numbering. The text would refer to a figure that didn't exist but the figure above it would be the right one (with a wrong number). Also, a lot of the figures were missing components called out in the scenerios or text. As a previous technical writer, this book drove me insane to read. Also, the chapters needed to be broken up a little more. 100 pages per chapter is way too long.

Otherwise, yes it is a good book. Tons of detail, however, you will be handicapped considerably without having $10,000.00 worth of switch and router gear just laying around. I bought Boson's Netsim hoping to help, and it didn't have any of the commands needed to do these labs. Bottom line, get the real thing if you can.

5.0 out of 5 stars A must-have book for CCNP Switch, July 8, 2010

By 

Zuge (USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: CCNP(R) Practical Studies: Switching (CCNP Self-Study) (Paperback)

This is a must have book for CCNP Switch self-study. The book goes into detail with practical applications for each topic. The difference in the level of detail and clarity, between this book and the CCNP Switch 642-813 Official Exam Certification Guide, is night and day. The book answers many questions I have that the exam certification guide gloss over. The writing style is entertaining and easy to follow. It is comparable to the CISCO LAN Switching book by Clark and Hamilton. Although the book will not replace the Exam Certification Guide, it is a must have for your CCNP study and a great addition to your library.