Right now, I work in retail, although it has helped with communication and working in a fast-paced environment. My long-term focus is technical rather than customer-facing work.
This roadmap includes everything I aim to achieve to break into an entry-level networking role.
Why Networking?
I personally enjoy how concrete and systems-driven it is; hands-on work designing and configuring systems yourself, where there’s very little ambiguity: packets flow, or they don’t.
I enjoy that networking rewards understanding over plain memorisation, and it’s a solid foundation that is underneath almost every other IT discipline.
To move into networking, I’ve put together a simple roadmap built around targeted certifications, focused study and hands-on projects.
Certifications
My core target is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 200-301.
Yes, I could pursue the lower-level CCT, which has an easier breakthrough and a free, easy-to-follow career pathway offered by Cisco.
Why skip the CCT?
Simple; CCNA provides a much greater ROI, is the expected standard for entry-level networking, and includes everything from routing, switching, security, and automation. It is the de facto gold standard for entry-level networking roles.
Cisco NetAcad covers the CCNA across three courses:
- CCNA: Introduction to Networks (ITN)
- CCNA: Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (SRWE)
- CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation (ENSA)
These courses are typically instructor-led, which involves costs. While completion grants a discount for the certification exam, the training cost would likely negate the benefit. Therefore, an alternative, cost-effective study method is necessary for this complex certification.
Primary Study Resources
Jeremy’s IT Lab
Jeremy’s IT lab is my main source. It is a YouTube playlist consisting of 126 videos covering every aspect of networking needed for the CCNA cert, explained by senior networking engineer and published author, Jeremy McDowell.
His free series includes foundational knowledge, labs, and flashcards. I highly recommend him.
Link: Jeremy's IT Lab CCNA Playlist
Jeremy McDowell’s Books
In addition to his video content, I will be using Jeremy McDowell’s books: Acing the CCNA Exam, Volume 1 and 2: Fundamentals and Protocols.
Essential Investment: Boson ExSim-Max
ExSim-Max for Cisco 200-301 CCNA provides real exam simulation which prepares you for the exam environment. The questions are written by subject experts in the correct format and follow the CCNA 200-301 exam blueprint.
The software offers score reports, category breakdowns, and multiple full-length exams. This purchase is highly recommended.
You can get 15% off the exam yourself with the code BOSONMICHAEL (not affiliated).
Link: Boson ExSim-Max CCNA
Mitigating Failure Points
I have observed common reasons for failure:
- Lack of lab experience: Focusing too much on passive watching rather than configuring devices.
- Unfamiliarity with exam formatting and question style.
- Focusing too much on memorising rather than true understanding.
I will mitigate these issues through consistent Cisco Packet Tracer labs. While Cisco hardware is currently out of my budget, I am maximizing hands-on experience using hardware from my home lab. Understanding the CLI (Command Line Interface) is critically important.
Download: Cisco Packet Tracer Download
Hands-on Projects
Home Lab
My plan is to gain real experience with Netgear hardware using basic switches and a router, focusing on fixing configurations and, above all, documentation of the entire process from start to finish.
This Website
This site serves as my public portfolio and combines all my foundational learning, labs, and knowledge into one resource. All of my personal resources are free.
Cisco Packet Tracer Simulation
Creating and managing a simulated enterprise network using Packet Tracer to demonstrate hands-on experience. This covers everything from VLAN creation and configuration, routing, and troubleshooting.
Job Application Tactics
I intend to keep applications consistent and manageable rather than high-volume. I’m looking for the following entry level roles:
- Network Operations Centre (NOC) Technician
- Help Desk (Tier 2)
- Junior Network Admin/Technician
Execution and gaining hands-on experience are the most important aspects of this roadmap.
Thanks for reading my roadmap. I will keep this section updated as I progress and achieve these goals!