Introduction to Cisco Router Configuration

I have used Todd Lammle's book to pass the CCNA exam. However, Todd's book lacked explanation as to why things are the way they are. For example, the reason behind using the network command after typing in router rip, is not explained at all in Todd's book whereas in Laura's ICRC book, it breaks it down and explains clearly. After, I passed the exam, I reviewed and studied Laura's CCNA book and I can say that this book is better for giving you a solid foundation. Todd's book, altho very good, is maily for exam prep, whereas Laura's book is for UNDERSTANDING. If you had to choose between two books, I'll choose Laura's book because in long run understanding concepts and not memorizing will get you further.

Put this book together with Lammle's CCNA Study Guide and you've got a winning combination for this exam. Chappell's book will do a better job of explaining router configuration. However it doesn't cover all of the exam objectives and hence there is a need for a second book. This book is good enough though to get the MCSETutor.com stamp of approval.

This book is the best overall introduction into the world of Cisco. The TCP/IP and OSI chapters are excellent and you WILL need them on the exam. It does lack in the areas of Frame Relay, ISDN, and LAN switching. It has plenty of screen shots and does a good job of explaining RIP and IGRP. If you are new to Cisco and are going to take the CCNA exam do not rely on Todd Lammle's CCNA Study Guide alone. You will be doing yourself a disservice! It is comparable to reading an Exam Cram book. Why would anyone planning on working on Cisco routers read an Exam Cram as an intro to Cisco? CCNA is an entry level certification, so read yourself a real intro book and good luck.

If you are thinking about CCNA, this is THE book. I just passed my CCNA using only this ICRC book. I also use it everyday as a reference. Get it !

I used the ICRC book to study for the CCNA test and found 68 out of 70 questions on the test were covered by the book. It took me 30-40 hours of study and I practiced on a router for a couple of days. I passed the test first try and I don't really work with routers on a daily basis.Its not often you can find a self study book that really has the information you need, but this one does!