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How can I finish Cisco's CCIE security certification in time?

I need to finish the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) security in 1 year and 6 months. Is this possible? I recently moved to network security support from WAN network support. I've had 2 years in system administration, and then 2 years in network support. I also have a good knowledge in Cisco routers and Cisco L2 switches. Please advise how I might be able to accomplish this.

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I can honestly say it has been done with less time and experience, but it is definitely an uphill battle.

I highly recommend immersing yourself in every book, lab rental and course that you can get your hands on. This is especially true since you only mention Cisco routers and Layer 2 switches and do not mention any Cisco secure appliances such as the PIX, IPS, or VPN concentrator. If I was in your shoes and I needed to take some initial steps, I would seriously start by taking a CCSP course and getting certified in that professional level first. That will get you familiar with the security appliances and build a foundation for the CCIE security. From there (given your time constraints) I would continue to take classes for the CCIE as well to increase your learning curve faster. Good luck!

This was first published in April 2008

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