Customer Reviews

Networking Technologies: A Complete Guide to Passing the Novell Cne Exam (McGraw-Hill Series on Computer Communications)

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I purchased this book for self study in preparation for the Novell exam for Networking Technologies (050-147). Although advertised as a "complete" guide to passing the exam, I found that it lacked some information and was confusing about other information. Even though most of the information needed was in the book, it was arranged in a different way than Novell presents it in their official courses. The editing was the worst feature of this book. With better editing, it probably would have been a very adequate book. However, much of the content appeared to have been a free form discourse, often changing subjects or concepts in the same paragraph. As with many other books, there were actual factual errors, but none that would cause irreparable harm. The book also gives too much information in some places. For example, it goes into detail about the makup of the frame types for different protocols. This information may be interesting but is not needed for the Novell exam. Novell's CNE Study Guide for Core Technologies written by David Clark is a much better reference for preparing for the exam. In addition, it also covers material for the Service and Support exam. On the plus side, the tables listing specific points about concepts were helpful. I ended up using this book as a backup reference to clarify some concepts and add to information from other sources. However, I don't consider this book a stand alone source for exam preparation.

I bought this book in preparation for the CNE test, and found that it was not as useful as I had hoped. My main criticism of the book was the totally inadequate index. When studying for the CNE, one wants to be able to reference specific items such as acronyms quickly, and this is almost impossible with the index provided. The book claims to be geared toward studying for the CNE test, but many concepts covered in great detail in the book are not covered by the test. As a backup reference, the book is adequate, but not as a stand alone guide, in my humble opinion.

Most of the computer books I have reviewed are in 4 categories, PCs, CompTIA certifications, Microsoft Certification or Cisco Routers. This is the first Novell book I have reviewed and I think Novell Networking Technologies has never been covered better.

Passing any exam is a difficult task, so when you have an opportunity to get some help, and this book will be a major help, you need to take it. The authors cover the exam objective is detail and the information is first rate.

The 500 plus page book covers networks. Media, hardware, standards, models, protocols, OSI model, protocol suites and network management. There is a practice test at the end of each chapter and appendicles that cover a variety of topics you'll need to know about.

The included cd-rom is a great addition to the book, with tutorials, quiz software, and practice CNE exams and so much more. If you're serious about becoming a CNE, than do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book. Remember the first step is always the hardest.

This is the best exam preparation book I had ever came across. I would advice those preparing for CNE exams to have it and you will definitely have no problem passing. Good Luck !!!