Cisco Networks

Cisco Networks:

Cisco Networks is a Handbook of Routing, Switching, and Security with IOS, NX-OS, and ASA is a comprehensive guide for intermediate and advanced network engineers who want to improve their skills and knowledge. Written by Christopher Carthern, William Wilson, Noel Rivera, and Richard Bedwell, the book covers a wide range of topics related to configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Cisco networks. In this review, we will explore the key features of the book and evaluate its usefulness for network engineers.

Overview of the Book

The book is divided into six sections, each covering a specific topic related to Cisco networks. The first section introduces the basics of networking, including IP addressing, subnetting, and the OSI model. The second section covers Cisco IOS commands and the third section covers Cisco NX-OS commands. The fourth section focuses on Cisco ASA commands and the fifth section covers advanced topics such as BGP, OSPF, and VPN. The sixth and final section covers network security from a hacker’s perspective and includes practical examples of using security testing tools such as Metasploit and Kali.

Key Features of the Book

Real-World Examples and Exercises:

One of the most valuable features of the book is the use of real-world examples and exercises to reinforce the concepts covered. Each chapter includes examples of configuring network devices and exercises that allow readers to practice advanced Cisco commands. The step-by-step solutions provided for each exercise are particularly useful for readers who may be struggling with a particular problem.

Comprehensive Coverage of Cisco Commands:

Another key feature of the book is its comprehensive coverage of Cisco IOS, NX-OS, and ASA commands. The authors have done an excellent job of providing a detailed explanation of each command and its syntax, making it easy for readers to understand and apply them in real-world scenarios.

In-Depth Coverage of Advanced Topics:

The book also covers advanced topics such as BGP, OSPF, and VPN in-depth, which is particularly useful for readers who want to take their network engineering skills to the next level. The authors have provided a detailed explanation of each topic, along with practical examples that demonstrate how to configure and troubleshoot these protocols.

Unique Perspective on Network Security:

The final section of the book provides a unique perspective on network security from a hacker’s perspective. The authors have included practical examples of using security testing tools such as Metasploit and Kali to test network security, which is an area that many network engineers may not be familiar with. This section of the book is particularly valuable for readers who want to improve their knowledge of network security and learn how to defend against cyber threats.

Pros

• Comprehensive coverage of Cisco IOS, NX-OS, and ASA commands • Real-world examples and exercises to reinforce concepts • In-depth coverage of advanced topics such as BGP, OSPF, and VPN • Unique perspective on network security from a hacker’s perspective • Well-structured and easy to navigate

Cons

• Not geared towards beginners • Lack of focus on certification exams

Conclusion

Overall, Cisco Networks: Engineers’ Handbook of Routing, Switching, and Security with IOS, NX-OS, and ASA is an excellent resource for intermediate and advanced network engineers who want to improve their skills and knowledge. The book provides comprehensive coverage of Cisco commands, including advanced topics such as BGP, OSPF, and VPN. The use of real-world examples and exercises makes it easy for readers to understand and apply the concepts covered, and the unique perspective on network security from a hacker’s perspective is a valuable addition. However, the book may not be suitable for beginners or those looking to focus specifically on certification exams.