Karl Solie, CCIE

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GoCertify: In your opinion, what is the most difficult topic or subject that is covered?

Karl Solie: The most difficult subject in the book and on the practical exam, is getting all routing protocols and technologies to all work together at once. For instance it may not be that challenging getting a homogenous EIGRP network up and running. Now combine this with a Frame Relay Multipoint, RIP, IGRP and OSPF, and many new issues arise. Once the IP foundation is laid, now you have to tackle BGP, NTP, DLSw, Voice over and other technologies that require a working IP network. And if IP connectivity doesn't work, well then, neither will DLSw, BGP or anything else that needs an IP network. You can see how the points on the test keep building on one another.

GoCertify: The first time pass rate for the lab exam has been cited as about 20%. Should candidates just expect not to pass on their first attempt or are there things they can do to boost their chances of success?

Karl Solie: Becoming a CCIE is a very serious undertaking, and you must be willing to deal with failure and setback. I've personally known candidates that have passed the first time, and ones that have taken five times to pass. The first time you take the test there is a lot test anxiety, and you really have no idea what to expect. The second time your more comfortable, have seen the test, and hopefully polished up on your weak areas.

The best thing you can do, in my opinion, to increase your odds is practice as much as possible in the lab, and configure everything you can possibly think of. If you can't spend a lot of time in the lab, and feel your weak on stick-time, then I would expect failure on your first practical exam. You simply won't pass the practical test without spending an awful lot of time in the lab. Without lab time, it would be like trying to become a Navy SEAL and being not being physically fit.

GoCertify: What exam day tips do you have for CCIE lab exam takers?

Karl Solie: On test day I would say get a good night sleep, eat a good breakfast and so on, but I could do neither. I spent time reading up on my weakness and being nervous. The one thing I was able to do was come up with some sort of game plan for the test. For instance, first I'll read the whole test, next I'll diagram my network and address the whole thing, then I'll configure my LAN connections followed by WAN connections and so on. Having a game plan like this will help you avoid a Midwest saying we call "deer in the headlights" syndrome when you first look at your test.

Mentally, be confident in your abilities and stay focused. Don't be overwhelmed by the test, and take it one step at a time. Remember during the test, the answer is always in front you. There may be times during the test when the blackness will close in around you. Don't give up, move to another portion of the test, the answer may come to you later.

GoCertify: What other advice do you have for individuals considering this certification?

Karl Solie: Deciding to become a CCIE is something you can't approach half-heartedly. It was one on the most difficult, and rewarding challenges I have ever faced. You must be willing to spend months reading and practicing, taking everything you have learned to the next level. Anything short of very serious preparation will leave you short on point during the practical exam.

Nothing worthwhile ever comes easy, and when all is said and done, and you are handed that coveted CCIE number, your hard work and long hours will be well rewarded.

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