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NetworkingATE
1,545 pts.
 How can I get an entry-level networking job with no experience and a Network+ certification?
Career development, Careers in networking, CCNA, Job, Network+, Training and certifications
Hi, I have Network+, and I am studying for my CCNA, but I do not have any Cisco routers or switches to practice with to get hands-on experience. I really want to start a career in networking, so what should I do? Most entry level jobs require months to a years worth of job experience.

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ASKED: February 19, 2008  10:12 PM
UPDATED: February 16, 2011  8:58 PM
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Answer Wiki:
there are several sites that have cisco router simulators that you can use online and off that will allow you to simulate a cisco router network for testing purposes. Keep looking on the job boards, dice.com, monster.com, careerbuilder.com, jobs.yahoo.com and others as well as local papers. If you don't mind moving that is a plus for employers looking. There are entry level jobs out there that you can use to get your foot in the door. If you want to do it then keep at it. You should also get your A+ certification. That will give more credit towards an entry level position. You will also want to get your Microsoft certifications since they have 90+ percent of the market. Getting linux experience by building systems at home on your spare time will help give you a more rounded skill set. Yes, all of this will take years but they don't call it a career for nothing! You have to love doing it to do it for life.
Last Wiki Answer Submitted:  February 19, 2008  11:59 pm  by  Buddyfarr   6,850 pts.
All Answer Wiki Contributors:  Buddyfarr   6,850 pts.
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Jerry Lees
 5,320 pts.
 

It’s hard to improve on Buddy Farr’s advice, so I will endorse his recommendations instead. I would also add that you should look for volunteer or part-time opportunities to start gaining hands-on experience, and also turn to your local community college to look for lab access (many community colleges are part of the Cisco Academy program and have surprisingly broad collections of Cisco gear to offer to their students). Keep at it, keep trying, and continue to define and refine your goals and objectives and you should reach them soon enough.

Best of luck,
–Ed–

Ed Tittel
 1,175 pts.
 

Cisco Packet Tracer is a great simulator, while GNS3 is a sweet emulator that uses real IOS’s. To get teh experience, though, find contract or contract-to-hire work for folks to build your resume, experience and professional reputation…

Sixball
 8,500 pts.