Having previously read and reviewed Glen D. Singh's "The Ultimate Kali Linux Book," I approached this CCNA exam guide with high expectations - and I'm pleased to report that Singh, along with co-author Neil Anderson, delivers the same caliber of comprehensive, practical instruction that made his Kali Linux book so valuable.
This second edition serves as both a thorough exam preparation resource and a practical reference for aspiring network professionals targeting the Cisco 200-301 CCNA certification. The authors have clearly updated the content to align with Cisco's latest exam objectives, covering everything from basic networking fundamentals to more advanced topics like automation and programmability that have become increasingly important in modern networking.
The book's structure follows a logical progression that builds knowledge systematically. Starting with networking basics and the OSI model, it gradually introduces more complex concepts like VLANs, routing protocols, and network security. What sets this guide apart is how Singh and Anderson balance theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical examples. The lab exercises and configuration scenarios feel relevant to real-world networking challenges, not just exam scenarios.
One of the book's strongest aspects is its clarity in explaining complex topics. Whether discussing OSPF routing algorithms or IPv6 addressing, the authors break down intimidating concepts into digestible sections with clear diagrams and practical examples. The command-line interface examples are particularly well-formatted and easy to follow, with helpful annotations explaining what each command accomplishes.
The practice questions and exam tips scattered throughout each chapter prove invaluable for exam preparation. The authors don't just provide correct answers - they explain why other options are incorrect, reinforcing understanding rather than rote memorization. The included practice exams closely mirror the actual CCNA exam format and difficulty level.
Areas where the book particularly excels include its coverage of network automation and SDN concepts, which many older CCNA guides gloss over despite their inclusion in the current exam. The security chapters are also notably comprehensive, reflecting the increasing importance of security in modern networking.
If there's any weakness, it's that some readers completely new to networking might find the pace challenging in certain sections. However, the authors generally do an excellent job of providing context and references to earlier chapters when building on previously introduced concepts.
The book includes access to online resources and practice labs, though the real value lies in the printed content itself. The writing is engaging without being overly casual, technical without being dry, and comprehensive without unnecessary padding.
For anyone preparing for the CCNA 200-301 exam, this guide provides everything needed to pass the exam and, more importantly, to understand the material deeply enough to apply it in real networking environments. Singh and Anderson have created a resource that works equally well for self-study or as a classroom supplement.
Like Singh's "The Ultimate Kali Linux Book," this CCNA guide stands out for its practical approach, clear explanations, and genuine focus on building applicable skills rather than just exam cramming. It's a worthy investment for anyone serious about launching or advancing their networking career.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
The half-star deduction is only because absolute beginners might benefit from supplementary resources for foundational concepts, but for its intended audience of CCNA candidates, this is among the best preparation guides available.
