In October 2009, Cisco changed CCIE R&S lab exam format by jumping into the feature with all electronic delivery of the test using modern web-based technologies. After somewhat negative initial reaction from candidates, many CCIE students and successful CCIE candidates report that interface is very good, usable and that they liked it – some even more than the old format. It’s now IPexpert’s turn to change the CCIE training space!

We are proud to announce that in the coming weeks and months, we will introduce electronic delivery of practice labs in our CCIE R&S classes! We will be using self-developed system that will help our students be even more prepared for the real lab exam. While I could spend many words describing the system, letting you see it in action is even better.

Video Demonstration

Sit back, relax and enjoy the demo below! If you prefer, here is the direct YouTube link.

We are looking forward seeing you in one of our CCIE bootcamps !

–
Marko Milivojevic – CCIE #18427
Senior Technical Instructor – IPexpert
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The week of Cisco Live! 2010 in Las Vegas came to an end. It started on Sunday and up until Thursday, thousands (apparently more than 15.000) of network engineers gathered in one place to participate in the largest of Cisco’s social and learning events. Of course, we were there and here is just brief summary of the things future will bring

There were two things that were on everyone’s mind before “Networkers” started. Will there be a new CCIE track announced (CCIE Data Center) and the overdue blueprint change for CCIE Service Provider. We waited in anticipation for both of these, alas… nothing came out from Cisco. But, there were a lot of technical sessions, marketing presentations and very open and frank conversations with Cisco people that helped us understand what future holds. Without further ado, here we go.

CCIE Routing and Switching

Blueprint is currently in version 4.0 and it is likely to remain like that for at least the next six months. However, that doesn’t mean there are not going to be changes and tweaks. Just to quote one of the people from the program who told me “we are bringing routing to routing and switching”. What that means is that there is going to be more emphasis on the core subjects, like IGP and BGP, as well as interaction (redistribution) between protocols. Another thing that is coming is more in-depth and more relevant troubleshooting tickets. As you will see with some of the other tracks, troubleshooting is becoming a major component of the CCIE exam and students going for the exam must absolutely be ready for it!

What does more distant future for R&S hold? Since troubleshooting is 100% in virtual environment, we believe it’s only a matter of time (perhaps within next 2-3 years) that R&S lab will be 100% virtualized, or at least hybrid of virtual and real equipment, allowing Cisco to create more modular and dynamic lab content. The team of engineers within Cisco responsible for CCIE R&S is very capable and eager to keep this track as the most important and relevant IT certification and they are doing a pretty good job at it!

Summary:

• No pending blueprint update.
• More in-depth troubleshooting
• More focus on “core routing topics”
• More virtualization in the distant future

IPexpert’s Summary:

• Changes mentioned are very well covered by our CCIE R&S Blended Learning Solution
• Minor content update may be forthcoming to include more troubleshooting exercises

CCIE Voice

There were no changes to the blueprint announced (thankfully!). All software versions will remain at 7.0 and are likely to remain at this release for a couple of years. It is worth pointing out that Cisco are well aware of the fact that there are several “bugs/undocumented features” that can be expected with any “.0” release. However candidates are expected to provide workarounds where applicable.

As most of you know, the Core Knowledge questions were removed some time in May 2010 and were replaced with troubleshooting tasks. The speaker repeatedly brought attention to the types of troubleshooting tasks candidates can expect. We have tried to summarize some of the most important points raised below.

• There is no dedicated troubleshooting section for the time being- troubleshooting is embedded into the configuration tasks of the exam. This is subject to change- in other words they may look at providing a dedicated troubleshooting section at some point in the future.
• Troubleshooting tasks account for approximately 15% of the points on the CCIE Voice Lab exam.
• Candidates will have to troubleshoot existing configuration which has built-in errors. More details of example errors are given below.
• Infrastructure tasks will for the most part be complete and will not be the responsibility of the candidate. However configuration might not be 100% correct!
• Going forward phones will be pre-configured into the UCM database. It was mentioned that SIP endpoints have not been tested thus far but candidates should expect SIP endpoints in the lab in the very near future. Interestingly it is the intention to have phones pre-registered with the correct firmware in advance- that means candidates will not be responsible for changing the firmware of the phone. This will come as a relief to many of you since this process is time-consuming.
• Troubleshooting tasks could potentially include in depth knowledge of the protocols used for establishing call setup. Detailed knowledge of the call flow involved in protocols such as SIP/MGCP/H323/SCCP/Q931/etc will be required in order to explain why certain calls to the “provider” are failing. It was mentioned that the candidate may not even have to fix the problem and instead create a text file with the relevant traces/debugs and a suitable explanation. A process not too dissimilar when you create a TAC case.
• Cisco will continuously modify the content of the lab and this includes changing the number of UCM and UCME sites. You can expect 3 UCM sites, 3 UCME sites or anything in between!
• Gatekeeper/CUBE/SIP Trunk tasks will be added to the lab at some point in the near future (if not already!). The PSTN provider in the lab may not necessarily be a T1/E1 connection but rather a H323 or SIP ITSP.
• Security related tasks (authentication and encryption of signaling and media) are not going to be tested since these tasks are too difficult to maintain and implement. However the CCIE Voice Written test which will be updated later this year will cover those topics.
• The Voice CCIE pass rate is currently between 20% and 25% but expect that figure to drop as the impending lab updates will no doubt increase the difficulty of the test.

Overall we were very pleased with the outcome of the discussion- no major updates for a couple of years will come as a huge relief to all training vendors. The IPexpert BLS and bootcamps have for more than a year now been covering SIP Phones, CUBE, multiple UCME sites and detailed knowledge of the protocols involved in call set up. The biggest takeaway from the session was undoubtedly troubleshooting is going to be the singular most important skill candidates will need to pass the lab – if you are going to pass the CCIE Voice going forward you need to focus on the why and not only the how as has been the case in the past.

CCIE Security

This seems to be the least exciting track as far as news go. The content is stable, there are no immediate pending blueprint changes and content updates.

IPexpert’s Summary:

• No pending product updates, based on changes.

CCIE Service Provider

Let me get this out of the way, first. There was no new Service Provider blueprint announced. However, it is ready and will be announced very, very shortly. Blueprint and content are ready, what is pending are hardware upgrades for lab locations. We can expect it to happen at any moment. So, what are the forthcoming changes, then?

IOS XR is making the appearance. It is not a rumor, it is not a speculation, it is going to be there. The major focus area is on IP and MPLS, still, but there will be also a focus on service provider approach to IPv6 and interaction between IOS and IOS XR. We can expect any number of routers running IOS and IOS XR in the new lab, where there will be a mix of IOS and IOS XR devices in the “core” and the same at the edges. CE routers will remain strictly IOS.

Also, there will be troubleshooting on the exam, but it is still not 100% certain whether that includes a dedicated troubleshooting section, or preconfigured faults in the configuration section. For this, we need to wait the official announcement. Everyone afraid of pending changes, should aim to proceed with their lab preparations. If you are not concerned (and really, there is no need to be), keep to your schedule, as planned.

Summary:

• Blueprint change is imminent.
• IOS XR and IOS will be tested.
• IPv6 will be tested.
• Troubleshooting will be a component.

IPexpert’s Summary:

• We are, like everyone else, waiting for blueprint update.

CCIE Service Provider Operations

This track was a mystery for me before going to Cisco Live! What is the idea behind it? Well, after talking to relevant people at Cisco, I actually like this track and I’m likely to go for it in the future. So, let’s see…

CCIE SP Ops is the track that focuses strictly on NOC personell. Cisco sees this as one the fastest growing CCIE tracks in the future, in fact. There is heavy focus on troubleshooting and processes in this exam. In fact, two sections of the lab reflect this. The lab will be split in two parts. The first part is dedicated troubleshooting section, which will include complex problems involving both IOS and IOS XR devices. The second section is scenario-based test, focusing on processes (ITIL) and high-level problem troubleshooting and escalation.

Since this exam is still not available to general public, it remains to be seen what will happen here.

Summary:

• Heavy focus on troubleshooting complex IOS and IOS XR issues.
• Heavy focus on processes and process frameworks (ITIL).

IPexpert’s Summary:

• At this point, we do not have immdiate plans to provide training for this track.

CCIE Wireless

Petentially, one of the most interesting tracks in the future. Fast growing market and ever evolving technology. Cisco understands this and CCIE Wireless is in good hands within Cisco in that respect. So, what’s going on with the exam? First of all, there will be some changes in the next couple of months, but no immediate blueprint change – which will happen within 9-12 months, though. The biggest change that is going to happen soon is that Cisco is “quietly” going to remove Location appliance from the exam. The reason for that is that it’s end-of-life and Cisco wants to replace it with something more relevant. The more relevant thing is Mobilite Services Engine. However, that will require major software changes on the rest of the equipment in the lab and requires blueprint change, which they are not ready for at this moment.

One thing was very much stressed out during the technical session on CCIE Wireless – candidates must understand routing and switching in order to complete the lab successfully! It’s is not as deep as in R&S track, but it is definitely covered on the exam. Students must know how to configure basic spanning-tree, IGP routing and redistribution to be successful. According to Cisco, this is one of the biggest hurdles candidates experience in the exam.

Summary:

• No pending blueprint change.
• Minor content upgrade – Location appliance will be removed.
• Basic switching, unicast and multicast routing configuration.

IPexpert’s Summary:

• Stay tuned for pending product announcements for this track. We will be updating our website this month to reflect the following products:
• CCIE Wireless racks
• Self-study Workbooks (Volume 1 and 2) with Detailed Solution Guides
• A Video on Demand Boot Camp
• A Live 5-Day Instructor Led Class

CCIE Storage

We all expected to see CCIE Data Center announced this year. However, it was not, nor is it planned for immediate future. That being said, Cisco engineers involved in the program informally refer to the Storage track as the CCIE Data Center. Also, they are investigating the future possibility of creating more comprehensive Data Center CCIE, but it’s in the early planning stages as of right now.

However, there are important bullet points that we should mention here for the people who are preparing for this track. First of all, focus of the exam is only on Cisco equipment and devices. Carefully examine the list of devices mentioned in the blueprint and focus the studes on this equimpent.

The world of data centers is fast evolving, which makes it very difficult to create a “stable blueprint” and CCIE program managers are waiting for the product range and technology to stabilise, before they introduce major changes. There are probably going to be blueprint updates in the next 6-12 months, but no major changes will happen overnight.

Summary:

• No pending blueprint update.
• Fast-changing and evolving technology that will only grow in the future.
• Strict focus on Cisco equipment in the exam.

IPexpert’s Summary:

• Stay tuned…Although we currently have several CCIE Storage Racks and Tyson Scott (IPexpert’s x3 CCIE is working on this track, currently) we’re going to wait until the Data Center is announced before we pursue any products in this space.

Overall Summary

It has been a great week for IPexpert and everyone who attended Cisco Live! We met with great people, our former, current and future students. We enjoyed the excellence of Cisco’s technical presentations, immersed ourselves in deep technical discussion with our peers and had the great opportunity to socialize with like-minded network engineers, both from Cisco and elsewhere.

See you all in classes and next year at Cisco Live! 2011 in the CCIE lounge – where you all need to be with fellow CCIEs!

Regards – The IPexpert team

After a long process of updating our entire CCIE Voice product portfolio, I’m pleased to announce that our CCIE Voice Blended Learning Solution is now 100% completed and shipping! The Volume 2 Video Tutorials and Audio on Demand are now shipping. The Audio should be in your Member’s Area if you’ve purchased the Audio on Demand. All Voice BLSs will be shipped out over the next week.

Regards, Wayne

China, MI — May 24, 2010 —

Less than 22,000 individuals worldwide currently hold the CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert) certification. This industry-recognized designation offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. distinguishes network engineers as the most the elite in the computer networking profession. Within this distinguished group of certified professionals, less than 10% have honed their expertise on the network security track; the CCIE Security certification. CCIE Security certified engineers are typically found managing, designing and protecting the computer network systems and infrastructures used by the world’s largest public and private corporations as well as educational and governmental entities.

To become CCIE-certified, senior engineers spend upwards of 1 to 2 years preparing for an exhaustive 8-hour long hands-on “lab” exam conducted by Cisco, the global leader in computer networking solutions. IPexpert is a CCIE training organization, focused on preparing seasoned computer network engineers for these industry-recognized and distinguished exams, through various learning solutions including self-study workbooks, video tutorials, video classes, audio courses, online equipment, live online mentoring and instructor-led training courses.

IPexpert is pleased to grow on its record as the global market leader in CCIE training with its first-to-market complete self-study resource, the Blended Learning Solution (BLS) for CCIE Security 3.0 candidates. IPexpert’s CCIE Security 3.0 BLS consists of 5 self-study CCIE Security workbooks , CCIE Security video on demand class, CCIE Security audio on demand class and video tutorials for all workbook material. IPexpert’s portfolio also provides students with 400 hours of access to a collection of Cisco hardware so students can gain the vital “hands on” preparation over the internet, regardless of their geographical location. IPexpert also provides free online mentoring to all of their students so they can be trained on various topics and technologies that are seen on this grueling exam.

About IPexpert:

Founded in 2001, IPexpert is the leading training company for computer networking engineers pursuing the highest-level career certification offered by Cisco Systems, the coveted CCIE certification. IPexpert has become the global leader serving its niche CCIE market, boasting the largest offering of self-study training products, instructor led courses and online hardware available for rental. Visit www.ipexpert.com for more information.

Be sure to check out our May Newsletter for updates on our CCIE R&S 4.0, Voice 3.0 and Security 3.0 Blended Learning Solutions, ILT promotions (select classes at $1,999), self-study bundles , News from Cisco pertaining to the CCIE R&S and CCIE Voice labs and Marko – IPexpert’s Sr. Instructor – passing the CCIE R&S 4.0 lab exam!

Regards, Wayne

CCIE R&S Candidates,

As most of you know (if you’re following our incredible CCIE-focused blog), I passed the CCIE R&S 4.0 Lab yesterday. I’m pleased to announce that I’ve scheduled a free online class (vLecture) entitled “How I Passed the 4.0 R&S Lab” for May 18th. In this vLecture I will give you a complete overview of the single training solution I used (IPexpert’s Blended Learning Solution) and the strategy I employed during my preparation, which is the strategy IPexpert has refined over nearly a decade of success. I’m also answering emails pertaining to my strategy and what worked for me on IPexpert’s online email support list. Please feel free to join our CCIE-focused community or drop by the free vLecture. My goal is to help you succeed, and earn your number!

Kindest regards,
Marko

–
Marko Milivojevic – CCIE #18427 (SP/R&S)
Senior Technical Instructor – IPexpert

YES! We include 400 hours of REAL rack
time with our Blended Learning Solution!

Mailto: markom@ipexpert.com
Telephone: +1.810.326.1444
Fax: +1.810.454.0130
Web: http://www.ipexpert.com/

Attention CCIE Security 3.0 candidates!  We’re pleased to announce that our highly-anticipated Blended Learning Solution for the Cisco CCIE Security 3.0 Lab Exam is now shipping!

The IPexpert Security 3.0 Blended Learning Solution contains an unmatched quantity of recently-updated and newly-created material designed with our renowned “Learn by Doing” approach. This program provides you with a consolidated learning experience delivered through various forms of media. Each component is built into a streamlined, user-friendly interface that maximizes your study time and focus!

This thorough hands-on solution is designed to take you from your initial stages of CCIE lab preparation all the way to your actual lab exam! Created specifically as a self-study learning program, the Security 3.0 Blended Learning Solution is sure to exceed your expectations.

You will be amazed by the quantity and quality of the materials included in this multimedia product. This complete self-study tool consists of the following materials, tools and support capabilities:

• An OEQ / Core Knowledge Preparation Workbook
• Workbooks Volume 1
• Detailed Solution Guide for Volume 1
• Workbook Volume 2
• Detailed Solution Guide for Volume 2
• IPexpert Video on Demand For the CCIE Security V3 Lab
• Slide Book for VOD
• Topology Book for VOD
• IPexpert’s Audio on Demand Lecture Series for the CCIE Security V3 Lab
• Walk-Through Video Tutorials for Volume 1
• Walk-Through Video Tutorials for Volume 2
• Access to IPexpert’s Ask the Expert, Free Online Learning Portal
• Access to IPexpert’s online vLecture Training Seminars
• 400 Hours of Online Racktime

Searching for the ultimate “hands-on” preparation product on the market? We encourage you to compare the contents of the CCIE Security 3.0 Blended Learning Solution to the products offered by the competition.

Questions? Contact a Training Advisor today!

Phone: +1.810.326.1444
Email: sales@ipexpert.com
Live Chat: www.IPexpert.com/chat

Gang – After 15 months of development, it’s finally shipping! We’re now able to ship our entirely overhauled CCIE R&S 4.0 Blended Learning Interface – much, much more content than any of the competitors out there – and much more professionally positioned based around our Structured Learning Approach. I’d like to link you two CCIE R&S BLS video, both done by Brandon Carroll. Brandon gives another great overview on the BLS interface and actually what’s included when you purchase our CCIE R&S Blended Learning Solution. As a summary, our BLS contains a large amount of content which can be seen HERE . To watch Brandon’s BLS Demo, click HERE.

Regards – Wayne

CCIE Candidates and Valued Clients,

I’d like to share a few links, created by industry-renowned CCIE Instructor Joe Astorino, that cover – and walk you through our latest and greatest product – the CCIE R&S Blended Learning Solution (BLS).  We’re extremely excited and proud of this latest product, which began shipping Friday. It’s been “in the works” for nearly 15 months and is now 100% completed – covering the latest CCIE R&S 4.0 topics. We *GUARANTEE* that you will not find a more completed, up-to-date, thorough, well-supported, and well-rounded product on the market – it’s absolutely unmatched anywhere in terms of the amount of material received, the professionalism of the interface and presentation and the support you will receive throughout your entire CCIE journey! Also, some great news for our Security and Voice clients – the Security BLS will completely ship *no later than* the 30th of THIS month (10 days from now) and the Voice BLS will ship on or before May 27th (less than 6 weeks away) -maybe, possibly sooner – so check back on our blog daily.

View IPexpert’s Blended Learning Solution (CCIE R&S 4.0) Demo Part 1

View IPexpert’s Blended Learning Solution (CCIE R&S 4.0) Demo Part 2

Regards – Wayne

CCIE Candidates – We’ll be updating our BLS product pages to reflect a fully functioning demo, and Brandon Carroll will be providing a video overview of the new BLS interface (hopefully this weekend) – however, I thought everyone would like to see a “sneak peek”. Expect your CCIE R&S BLS HDs to arrive within the next few days!

IPexpert's Blended Learning Solution Interface