Daniel Loughlin, CCIE #25965

Hello, Today, I finally passed the R&S v4 exam in San Jose. I'd like to thank the instructors at Internetwork Expert for their excellent workbooks and classes. I'd also like to thank all of the other candidates for posting their encouraging stories and technical advice. I couldn't have done it without you folks. I'd also like to thank my family, coworkers, and friends for putting up with me while I pursued this. This was my fourth attempt and my third version 4 attempt. Here is a brief synopsis of my experience and strategy. For my preparation, I spent a year and half working on the CCIE InternetworkExpert Self Paced packaged. In the beginning I used dynamips and rack rentals, but I eventually built a lab with a coworker using 1841 routers and 3750 switches. I would plug away working on the lab exercises in my spare time. I'd put in 15-20 hours a week in my lab. I worked through the volume 1 and 2 labs several times. I also enjoyed all of the audio and video products. The core knowledge simulation was great too. CiscoPress books, the DOC Website, and the RFCs all were useful. Also, don't forget to check your libraries. Most of the CiscoPress books I read, I found at my library. Save some of your cash and visit your library. Finally, don't give up. We all know it sucks to fail, but I swear if you keep at it and don't give up you will pass. Good luck to you guys!