What is Reddit's opinion of
Professor Messer?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
100 reviews of this app found across Reddit:
http://www.professormesser.com/
That is all you need to pass A+ with the knowledge you already have from working in IT. Watch his videos and at the end of each video he has 3 or 4 questions, answer the questions and if u get them wrong, watch the video again. Once your done go through exam compass' questions until you can get a 90 in every section. At that point your ready for the test.
If you ever have any questions about the test im more than happy to answer!
Check out Professor Messer's free Online Videos. They definitely helped me when I was getting my A+ Certification. Don't worry too much about the exam, most of it is common sense and memorization.
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
A+ material is where you want to start for training on how computers work. This site has a bunch of free videos organized into a curriculum that covers tons of topics. You can go through them all, or just look at ones that interest you.
http://www.professormesser.com/security-plus/sy0-401/sy0-401-course-index/
Watch Chapters 1.1 - 1.4 to get some basic information on Networks from a Security Standpoint. Other then that Google and read up on the OSI Model, HTTP Requests.
http://www.professormesser.com
Free videos teaching about the basics of IT so you can get certified. I don't plan on getting any certs but this guy is great. The videos are teaching me just about everything that I've wanted to know about computers for the past 2 years but couldn't figure out where to find to information without paying for courses.
By far the best website for the base Comptia Certs is http://www.professormesser.com/ The website is free!! Comptia from my experience is only really needed if you have no experience and want to get an entry level job in IT. After that you would wanna look into the CCNA or MCSE depending on what you wanna do.
Hope this helps!
Also recommend buying another router, even a used $20 Netgear or something. Make sure it's compatible with DDWRT, and flashing it with the firmware. Then subnet it and play around with the thing worry free that your main network won't be affected.
People will tell you getting the A+ cert is a good place to start. If you want to get into more advanced networking stuff then the CCNA cert.
I've been studying for the A+ with this video series (Scroll down for the videos): http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-901/comptia-220-900-course/
http://www.professormesser.com/ This guy put together an amazing website to prepare people for A+ certification and if you wanted to know more this place is great. The best part is that its all free, the only reason you would need to register is if you wanted to post to the message board.
This isn't really a computer science question. You may want to consider /r/CompTIA or /r/techsupport
That said, your best bet might be eBay or Craigslist. You may also be able to convince someone at Best Buy or any other IT shop to give you an old PC, but that's unlikely.
Additionally, when I got my A+ cert a few years back, the videos on this site were a huge help: http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
Easiest step into an IT position is to pick up a CompTIA A+ certification. It consists of two exams, and you can find all the study material for free
I would recommend the free series from Professor Messer. He is fantastically good at explaining concepts, and like I said, it is free.
I have my A+ (had to get it for a college course long ago), so I can tell you that unless you are very involved in desktop support, studying will be needed. There is material covered that isn't day to day support that you will need to know.
Its far, far easier to find the perfect job while you are employed, rather than staying unemployed and feeling somewhat-desperate.
Take the interview. Do your best. Be honest. Be enthusiastic.
Focus on your strengths - ability to learn and all that.
In the meantime plow through some professor messer videos for the A+ certification.
http://www.professormesser.com/
Perhaps sign up for CBT Nuggets and exploit their 1 week free trial.
I've heard a lot of good stuff about Professor Messer and I'm going to use those videos to supplement my training book and cd media I got from Amazon for $34.80 with free two day shipping.
I've just started studying for this so I'm certainly no expert, but have you tried the Professer Messer videos? He's touched on legacy stuff a good bit up to where I'm at, I don't know how much more in detail he goes into it though.
I don't think that measuring time is a good way to guage when you should take the exam again, instead you should make sure you know the material so you don't fail again. Before I took the exam, I reviewed the Network+ objectives and made sure I knew and was able to talk about each topic listed on the objectives. Any topic listed on the objective I wasn't sure about, I would go and lookup and read about it until I knew what it was. With that said, below are some other resources I used to study with.
I passed the first time with about three weeks of study. My main sources were Mike Myers Network+ book and videos, which I highly recommend, Professor Messer videos, and Ucertify practice tests. You really need to know subnetting, and how to do it quickly. If your having a hard time with subnetting or doing it quickly, Mike Myers provides a quick and easy way to do it.
Links:
Professor Messer: http://www.professormesser.com/
Mike Meyers: http://www.totalsem.com/network-plus-certification/
The go to is the CompTIA A+ exam, which covers really basic computer stuff. It's the easiest cert on the software development path, but also the most expensive, as it's made up of two tests, each costing about $200. It should also fill in a good deal of your missing IT experience. You can find plenty of study help in /r/comptia and these forums. The Professor Messer video series are always highly recommended, and free!
Good luck!
I would suggest starting with getting your A+ cert, and then look around for an entry level position. Here is some free training that won't cost a dime: http://www.professormesser.com/
Don't stop with the A+ btw, keep learning and bettering yourself.
Professor Messer has some Security+ videos for free. They certainly helped me.
http://www.professormesser.com/security-plus/sy0-401/sy0-401-course-index/
If you really wanted to, you could buy his Course Notes, which is basically a study guide that covers most everything you should know. Compared to other CompTia tests, the Security+ was one of the most straight forward. If you know the material, there is one right answer, as opposed to a right answer and a maybe answer.
Best of luck.
I posted this yesterday in another thread, if you like computers it's a fast way to the top:
>Take a CompTIA A+ certification, ~$180 x2. Get an entry level desktop support job. ~30k+/year. Then take your MCSA for MS2012, ~$150 x4. You can self study for these, there are many online training videos from youtubers. Purchase a study book and maybe some practice exams. You can make ~45k/year with these, more if you have experience. There are many certification you can take after these to expand your portfolio and increase your income, depending on your and your companies needs/wants. You don't need a 4 year degree in the IT field. I'd argue you don't need any college at all actually. And once you get into more advanced certs, like MCSM or Cisco's or maybe even some Linux certs, you can make 80k or more.
Professor Messer's Comptia A+ free course.
Eli the Computer Guy MCSA 2012
If computers are your thing, this is an easy career change.
You can't take all four because the 700 series was retired several months ago. You only need the 801 and 802 to get your A+ Certification.
Check out http://www.professormesser.com for great study material, videos and study groups. Plus they have a chat to help answer any questions you may have.
Don't worry, over time you will get better. You need experience. Plus don't stop at A+, keep going forward. If you can, try and get a MCSE, it will be very useful in the long run. Also you should watch Mr Messers videos if you haven't, the're free.
Also you can't try offering free services to local NGOs, except for parts.
For studying I'm a fan of the free Professor Messer video series:
I did it and passed it over the summer, no doubt you can.
For the Windows side - learn AD (active directory), set up a domain, set up Group Policies via GPO (Group Policy Management), learn about NLB (network load balancing), how file shares work, user account permissions, and there's a lot more.
You can gather the information for this stuff off of YouTube videos or from free online courses/videos, such as Professor Messor.
It depends on the company and which technology is being used.
I have worked for a company which doesn't allow Windows sysadmins to touch the Cisco equipment. Was working as a helpdesk/desktop support and advanced to being a Windows sysadmin in a Citrix SaaS environment at the same company.
Eli's networking course is good but the other classes are quite outdated I think.
But https://mva.microsoft.com/LearningPaths.aspx IT Pro Learning path is a good start because most companies are using Microsoft products.
Professor Messer also has good quality content: http://www.professormesser.com/
Hey when I studied for the exam this book https://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Certification-Guide-220-901-220-902/dp/125958951X and this guy http://www.professormesser.com/ are extremely helpful, he also does free YouTube lectures, good luck!
Well I'd say start with the easiest, A+, then Network +, then either go (CCENT, CCNA, CCNA:SEC), or carry onto Sec+
For comptia, a great free resource is professor Messer's Videos: http://www.professormesser.com/
Depending on how much tech knowledge you already possess, and how much time you can spend/week studying some of these might take you a week of studying and preparation or two.
A+ is split into 2 exams, and 2 courses, but is pretty simple stuff, I think each course is 3CUs, meaning the entire cert is 6CUs, same with CCNA, they make you do CCENT, then CCNA each is worth 6CUs, whole CCNA cert is 12CUs.
if you pass a single term, always consider taking a term break! you can pass the exams yourself outside of Uni and then get them transfered in and they'll count, might save money this way.
For most Tech Certs, I just buy the Exam Cram books, read them, write notes, and then do the Exam, so far I haven't had issues this way.
Best of luck!
Yes. But preferably, you should get a mat type and ground it properly, and better yet, a certified one.
For all those people saying they've never damaged anything by not wearing one, they just don't know they've damaged something because it doesn't look like they've damaged anything. Some components are very sensitive and susceptible to ESD damage. Although you might not notice the effects immediately, you can bet a component that suddenly plays up or dies without warning one day was caused by ESD. People seem to think that only immediate or catastrophic ESD matters (if I can't see/can't feel it, it didn't happen! In fact, you won't feel an ESD unless it's several thousand volts, but ESD damage can occur in <hundreds of volts. Typical PC components (like mosfets) have a failure threshold of 2000 volts or so - you can generate something like 30,000 volts by walking across carpet!), when in fact a build up of/ hidden ESD and ESD degradation is what suddenly makes your PC turn into a potato.
It's alarming those in this thread who supposedly work in IT or repair centre try to down play the risks. Using an ESD strap (at least) to minimise the risk is good practice and bloody basic knowledge. Ever wonder why mobos and GPU are shipped in anti-ESD bags?
So, I'm not sure what resources you are using to learn this information, but I will just leave this here. IP Addressing Once you follow this link, the information pertaining to most of your questions will likely reside in "1.3 – IP Addressing". Professor Messer does an excellent job explaining binary math and conversions for subnetting in these videos.
I would also recommend breaking out an old notepad and trying a bunch of examples yourself. I for one am not a big fan of Math, however binary math is relatively straight forward and simple and with a good explanation and a little bit of practice I guarantee you it will 'click'.
I also came across this pdf file while on the hunt for a subnet workbook, I can't attest to its quality because I didn't end up using it, but you might try your luck. Subnet workbook
Start here:
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
This guy's uploaded great video guides on the entire A+ exam for free. I'm sure he has some literature if you learn better from a book. Also these books are pretty good: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/007179512X/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687722&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=1118324056&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0NNPTGHSPZBPVBMZCYB9
Check out CBT Nuggets CompTIA Network+ material. It'll cost ya but it's good stuff for grasping concepts initially.
Professor Messer's material is also pretty good initially but I find him a bit too dry my my taste; however, his material has the benefit of being free.
http://www.professormesser.com/n10-005/free-network-plus/
Basically, I'd attack Network+ as a starting point.
Professor Messer which is free and if you are willing to spend a bit of money, TestOut. That will give you three years of access to the course materials for $160 and the hands on virtual labs are pretty decent. Video lectures on test out are boring as hell though. The $160 for test out also give you a voucher to their certification called PC Pro. It is way less well known, but I got a internship based on that without the A+ cert.
Someone you should really check out is Professor Messer. He has hours upon hours of study videos that go segment by segment through each exam. All of the videos are free to watch, or you could pay to download them all. Before my exam day I spent 7 hours straight just watching his videos. He also have videos for Network+ and Security+.
CompTIA Security+ is a good start. Professor Messer can get you up to speed prior to the exam (no advert, just come across this myself and like it)
http://www.professormesser.com/security-plus/sy0-401/sy0-401-course-index/
Reading books is the best way to learn for me, but everybody is different i watched all of professor messer videos(http://www.professormesser.com/). and printed out the Network + objective (https://certification.comptia.org/docs/default-source/exam-objectives/comptia-network-(n10-006)_examobjectives.pdf) and used a highlighter and started on domain 1 and watched the corresponding proffessor messser vid. and did that until i had the whole domain's covered I used Sybex network + deluxe study guide I passed last year about to take my Sec + 3/28/17
Good luck friend
I have my A+ from 801-802... my new tech who just took his 901 told me all about it and it sounds like a bit has changed...
http://www.professormesser.com/after-class/whats-new-on-220-901-and-220-902/
Messer lays it all out.
Well, this is a very open ended question. First, what kind of job are you trying to get? From the sounds of it, I assume you're looking for an entry level job, so i'd look into an A+ certification, and pursue a helpdesk/sysadmin type of job to start off. From there you can branch off into the more technical positions once you have a good amount of experience there, such as networking, security, or even development if you wish. But keep in mind that practical experience will always trump a piece of paper saying you have some book knowledge, especially considering most of the exams revolve around a multiple choice test. So while you're studying for the certifications, see if you can find a way to put the knowledge to use. For example, learn how to assemble and disassemble a computer, and troubleshoot on a real computer while reading A+. Or if you are getting into networking, and you decide to go for your network+ and one of the few cisco certifications, buy switches and routers and learn how to configure them. Start thinking about where you want to be several years from now and arrange a gameplan for getting there. Stay curious, and keep seeking out and learning new information, and eventually the job in that position will follow. If you have any more questions feel free to PM me or reply to this thread, hope I helped.
Edit: Almost forgot, a few good resources for learning the information mentioned above for free include https://www.cybrary.it/ http://www.professormesser.com/ http://www.professormesser.com/aplusresources/ (A few additional resources to help you track your progress on the second site)
Professor Messer's videos are really great in terms of videos.
In terms of books, Darril Gibson's book is great as well as his premium test questions. I want to say that I read somewhere that Darril Gibson helps write the test questions for the exam, but either way, from all the research I've done on the Sec+, I've heard great things about his book and I've glanced over it and its very comprehensive.
Honestly, don't spend a lot of money on Sec+
Everything on that exam can be taught to you online using free information. Start here
These videos are for the entry level Networking certification in IT. Pretty much anything you are looking to do, the basic concepts behind it should be explained in one of these videos.
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
MeasureUp, I seem to find people who do not think its worth much and other (like me) who find it fine. Multiple sources do not hurt however. I got my A+/Net+ in 2009 and basically ran through the Exam Cram books and MeasureUp. I'm actually attending WGU right now (just started) and my first class in Net+ (since my cert is over 5 years old... I have to redo it). They use Test Out and uCertify, but I also bought MeasureUp so I have 3 sources for test prep. (also looking at specific videos of Professor Messor) I think these have set me up to pass pretty well but I have to wait for my voucher.
How well were you doing on the MeasureUp practice tests?
Find a legit practice testing site (MeasureUp is one) and keep testing yourself until you are getting 90% or higher consistently. If you feel you need/want more info, I like this dude: http://www.professormesser.com/
As well as the "Exam Cram" book series. I got my A+ in 2009 and I think I basically read an Exam Cram, and used MeasureUp. Same with Net+. Good luck!
To answer the main question: No calculator, and you wont need one.
I actually work for a comptia partner IT company in Canada. I am currently a PC service tech on bench, it was a requirement for my employer for me to get the cert. I also used Professer Messer videos for self study. I currently make 16 (Will be 18 since i am now certified) an hour just a bench tech, but can make alot more working up and being promoted with the company. The onsite techs i talked to make 25 to over 30 currently. I got hired with only 4 years experience working at Mcdonalds, the A+ will get you interviews, then you have to sell yourself and your ability to learn on the job and problem solve to get hired. I was lucky enough to find this great employment opportunity before i got the A+ cert, but it will help me make more money and be more confident in my work knowing i am certified. You are ahead of the game if you already have Post secondary education and the exam should be a breeze! Just sell yourself man and you will get the job. As for the exam a few things, make sure spread the 801 and 802 out and study for each individually, and i recommend buying Professer Messer study guides, they are great! they are $10 each http://www.professormesser.com/220-801-802-study-guide/.
You can expect to earn probably 14 to 16 an hour to start just like me, also depending where you live, but don't settle for anything under 13 to start IMO, you are worth more! Dont be afraid to ask anymore questions, and GOODLUCK !
http://www.professormesser.com/
http://www.techexams.net/. These both helped me. you dont need to pay to study and pass these exams.
If you want to pay for anything I recommend this. http://www.cbtnuggets.com/it-training-videos/it-nuggets-library
But really,experience,reading watching videos and some dicipline you can pass with all free material.
You could start by covering the material for the CompTIA A+ cert, there's free resources here: http://www.professormesser.com/ and the book by Mike Myers is good. It'd be worth looking at the N+ or CCNA curriculum too as they cover the basics of network technology. Two books that would give you a very good base knowledge of hardware and software are http://www.nostarch.com/insidemachine.htm and http://www.amazon.com/Code-Language-Computer-Hardware-Software/dp/0735611319.
No need to pay for training for A+; aside from getting hands on experience with computers, there are many free resources like this guys videos (he has other things going on too like a study group and materials for other exams as well as notes if you want to pay for them):
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
As for taking the exams PearsonVue is the place for that, in Edmonton they are currently located downtown:
Pearson Professional Centres-Edmonton, AB 10055 106th St. NW Suite 540 HSBC Building Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2Y2 Canada
And to register for an exam you'll want to head over to: https://wsr.pearsonvue.com/comptia/
Most of your questions become obvious or simple to explore when you have knowledge of systems as a whole. I think it's incredibly important to have a solid understanding of how networking works; a highly recommended starting point: Network+ videos. Certifications, whether or not you choose to take the real exam (I don't), can provide a thorough and structured approach to a topic. Exam dumps can be just as useful for the purpose of validating knowledge.
To continue with Linux, I'd recommend diving into LPIC. There are a lot of rough edges you'll develop by only learning what you need and LPIC can help fill those in to make you a more well rounded engineer. Aside from all of this, being around other talented engineers is really the fastest way to level up your own skills so I highly recommend that you try to find a job working with people much smarter than yourself.
No apple specific questions will be on the test. I'd go through some practice tests or pick up Mike Meyer's A+ book, and also visit http://www.professormesser.com/ - he has some good videos and practice quizzes too i think.
Basic help desk work is really more about your customer service skill than your technical expertise. When I interview people for that position I like to hire friendly people with technical aptitude, not certified pros with poor service skills.
If you are going into an interview without any experience or certs I would focus on 3 things.
- Customer service skills.
- Passion for tech and a strong desire to learn
- Future goals related to a technical career
Whatever ever you do dont bullshit the interviewer. That is an instant no for me. Also, dont bring up Linux because you think it sounds impressive. I dont know why so many entry level guys do this. No one cares, unless you are interviewing in a place that does. In my case we are a windows/mac shop so we don't.
If you dont have an A+ cert, start with that. If you were dedicated you coudl get that in a month or two easily. CCNA could follow it. Professor Messer is a good free resource. http://www.professormesser.com/
Good luck bro.
I WAS going to use the Mike Meyers book, but I instead opted for materials that concentrated more on each test separately...since that's how you're going to be tested. The Mike Meyers book (from what I saw) lumped the materials for both exams together (as if you're going to take both back-to-back), and I wasn't too fond of that approach.
Personally, I'm reading this book, which is about $26 for Kindle version, and $22 for paperback. Combining this with Professor Messer's materials (both videos and notes, more on the notes), Exam Cram, and with Crucial Exams this time around, I'm hoping to pass the 902 with a higher score than my 901.
I'd rather prepare for and take one exam, then move onto the other, which is what the materials I'm using help me to do. You might prefer to do both, but that's not my style. You do what suits you best.
I agree with this. The internet is basically one big network. Professor Messor has a decent Network+ training program for free.
I just passed Net+ this week and honestly felt Mike's book could be better. I used Prof Messer much more heavily than the book. You're correct the content in Mike's book seems fluffy at points.
FYI: Read MM book cover to cover. then Prof Messer's video series, multiple practice exams, (crucial/exam compass), Anki flashcards, and the pot o' gold was the $10 Net+ notes on Prof Messer's site: http://www.professormesser.com/n10-006-course-notes/
worth. every. penny.
Good point about cables, I'll admit when I was doing my CCNA course that was probably my least favorite section.
This is his current course on the entire Net+ organized into bite-size sections (this is the main reason I love his channel)
Here is his most recent study group which is a recording of a live-stream he does with students quizzing them and going over certain areas more than others.
Maybe watch the study group video (about 2 hrs ) to gauge your strengths and weaknesses, and use that as a baseline to tackle the areas that might need reinforcement. He also does these sessions monthly, so there's always a new study group video monthly. You can even participate live, just check the calendar on his site
His channel really helped me when I was studying for the Security+.
Professor Messer has free videos, but if you're looking for access to other content as well, Pluralsight has some great courses but they're not free. Worked well for me as I have trouble reading new content for the first time. I need some exposure to it prior for it to truly sink in.
Websites like examcompass or techexams offer free practice tests for you.
Never really heard of them to be honest. Getting a job right out of a program like that seems to be far fetched.
If you really want to break into InfoSec I suggest you go watch the Security+ videos on Professor Messers website. Which can be found here.
This will give you all you need to know for basics in the Information Security industry, and will prepare you for the Security+ certificate which is an entry level cert.
To break into the field you need a wide range of knowledge and experience. If you don't have any I suggest you find an internship somewhere if you are a student.
Sounds like the A+ certification is going to be a good starting point for you. Besides working in the industry; the resources that helped me pass the exam are: Professor Messer IT Training Videos, CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Exams 220-901 and 220-902 3rd Edition, access to practice tests, and as much hands on experience as you can get.
As you have a year, I would watch the hundreds of Louis Rossmann videos on board repair and business values https://www.youtube.com/user/rossmanngroup/videos
The free Professor Messor videos for the hardware and network certifications would be also be a good plan http://www.professormesser.com/
I've used Professor Messer to get A+, Network+, and Security+ over the years. His videos are really easy to understand and best of all they are free to watch on youtube. He breaks down each of the exam objectives listed on the Comptia site per video section. At the end each video there's a short ~3 or so question quiz to make sure you understand the topic. Every month he also hosts a live study group for each of those certifications so be on the look out for them.
CompTIA A+ is a great place to start if you're new to computers and have a passion to learn more. A guy named professor Messer http://www.professormesser.com has a series of A+ videos that are free and very good quality. Pretty sure he has a subreddit on here too
I am majoring in IT with a concentration in Cyber Security. I would recommend going to get some certifications under your belt. Now, the downfall to this is that certifications don't last forever so since you are still young you probably wont be able to put them to good use BUT it is a great way to learn a ton of information and you are going to need them when you are looking for a job!
I recommend studying for the CompTIA A+ certification, followed by Network+ and then Security+. You can rent books to study for these tests on amazon for around $20 and check out this website. Professor Messor's website has a ton of useful videos regarding everything about the A+, Net+ and Sec+ certifications all for free and these videos were a huge help to me.
Go check out the CompTIA website and take a look around. Its a great place to get started.
It's a tough spot to be in. I'm still trying to sort things out myself, I've only been mentally out for about a year, but the best advice I can give is that you should use the time you have over the next year to build up yourself a network as much as you can. Make friends outside the organization, and cultivate those relationships, not only will it soften the loneliness you'll feel when you innevitabley are shunned, but knowing people is one of the best ways to figure your way around life. If you need help with something, need a job, a room mate, the more people you know, the higher chances that someone will be able to help you out.
I'm pretty new here myself, but this is a great place to be even if all you need is someone to listen to you and talk. We're all going through, or have gone through, pretty much some form of the same thing. Being alone is one of the scariest parts, and you don't have to be alone.
If you're interested in a career in IT, I'd recommend looking into a CompTIA A+ certification. It'll get you an entry level job at a help desk, and from there, the experience you accumulate is pretty good. I'm working towards one now, and there are a lot of free study materials for the tests. My favorite so far are Professor Messer's videos.
I hope that helps. That's what we're all here for I think. Help to live through this world that we weren't prepared to live through.
I'd recommend Mike Meyers' CompTIA Network+ All-In-One Exam Guide N10-006. You also get a CD with the book that has a PDF copy of the book and some practice tests.
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Network-All-In-One-Edition-N10-006/dp/0071848223
Between that and Professor Messer's videos and study notes I managed to score a 795 on the exam last week.
Messer link: http://www.professormesser.com/network-plus/n10-006/n10-006-course-index/
Like /u/OSUTechie said you can download Professor Messer's video/audio but it is not free see this link.
You can also sign up for Youtube Red for $10 a month and gain the ability to save Youtube videos for offline viewing. I would go this route, it's cheap and you have a virtually unlimited number of choices.
I would recommend the comptia app, there a few other free sec+ apps. Good for when you dont have access to a computer. http://www.examcompass.com/comptia/security-plus-certification/free-security-plus-practice-tests http://www.professormesser.com/security-plus/sy0-401/sy0-401-course-index/
I'm currently studying for my CompTIA A+ certificate and I'm using Professor Messer to help prepare. It's free and Professor Messer is something you can start using now or bookmark it for later. There are resources for the Network+ and Security+ certs too, which was mentioned by /u/Tyrnis
Good luck!
Start with the basics. CompTIA A+. These two exams 901/902 will cover the basics of troubleshooting computers covering Linux, Windows, and OSX devices. A good place to look at training material is Professor Messer. He actually frequents /r/CompTIA fairly often.
Once you get the A+ done, you can look at networking. Here there are two routes you can go. Again, CompTIA Net+ is the basic, and is typically the next cert most people get. However, if you think you will want to be more networking than sysadmin than you may instead look at the CCENT/CCNA. The CCNA is made up of two exams, passing the first exam nets you the CCENT which covers a lot of the same material as the CompTIA NET+. So if a CCNA is goal, skip Net+ and go get the CCENT.
Lastly, the CompTIA Sec+. As a military person, this will be a required certification if you end up working with computers/networks within the Military. It covers one of those DoD requirements. It builds on the knowledge of both A+ and Net+/CCENT.
After nabbing the trifecta, you should have a very good understanding with the basics of computers, networks, and how to secure them. You should also have a general idea of what aspect/part of IT you want to do. From here you can branch off and start nabbing certs in those career paths.
Another good resource for training is Cybrary.
EDIT: You may also check out /r/comptia, /r/ccna, /r/homelab, /r/networking, /r/sysadmin, /r/IT_CERT_STUDY/
Professor Messor's free videos are by far the best resource to study for the exam. I watched the videos, took notes, and re-reviewed them the day of the test (turned up the speed lol). I passed both exams on the same day. I found his quizzes to be much more useful than uCertify, except for identifying what connector types. uCertify is definitely better for that.
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/
You might want to check out Prof Messer's YouTube video on wireless security and standards for Net+. The guy has a gift for explaining this stuff.
http://www.professormesser.com/network-plus/n10-005/free-network-plus/
It's not quite what you are looking for, but ProfessorMesser is pretty good and it's free. He also holds weekly study sessions where you can ask him questions and what not.
Honestly I found the 802 easier. The 801 felt more about a bunch of numbers to remember, where as the 802 was the uses of the numbers. As long as you have a good understanding on how things work you will do fine. Professor messers study guide was VERY helpful to me http://www.professormesser.com/220-801-802-study-guide/
Professor Messer has good vids you can stream from his site or YouTube channel that's free. However if you want the downloaded version you'll have to pay. Also has good notes to study off of and sample questions for 801 after each vid.
Professor Messer, CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Linux, Microsoft Certification Training http://www.professormesser.com/
Personally I took the class in high school so the teacher taught us most of the stuff but I think Professor Messer should be very useful tool for you. The teacher also bought a software called Pass4Sure that had most of the questions that were on the exam but that is quite pricey.
Well don't just rely upon the working experience...
http://www.professormesser.com/n10-005-study-guide/
Everyone's working experience is different and there are probably things you don't know that will be in the exam.
Since you've dipped your toes in the M$ stream, I would suggest working towards the 2012 MCSA. It's 3 exams and is the go to 'asked for' cert on sys admin jobs. Each exam is $150 and it will require you to lab on your own, among other things.
You mentioned Linux...the CompTIA Linux+ is comprised of two exams but you end up getting 4 or 5 certs altogether (but only 2 [L+ and LPIC-1] are worth a shit). If you've never worked with *nix before this one will be a challenge. Interesting fact: this cert never expires.
And then...the easiest of the beginner certs--CompTIA's Security+. This is also a standard for many junior security positions and is required for many federal government contracting gigs. Just buy Darril Gibson's book and watch Professor Messer's videos and you'll be good to go. This is only one exam.
The CCENT is the entry-level Cisco networking exam. I recommend Todd Lamle's book for that. Some might suggest getting CompTIA's Network+ first but I would recommend going straight for the CCENT, then CCNA if you like the material and want to get deeper into networking.
For all of these...yes, you will have to study. The MCSA 2012 will take the longest and the Security+ should be the shortest. Use your downtime wisely.
Edit: unless you're in a dire financial situation, certs are by far the easiest and most economical form of resume boosting...invest in yourself.
I have found, from my experience with them, that the Exam Cram book is a good companion to a main study text. Also, I'd recommend the Exam Cram practice tests book and videos from /u/professormesser
I liked Professor Messer's videos, so here is one of his videos on troubleshooting theory.
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-802/troubleshooting-theory/
I think some of my co-workers need to go back to the basics, yesterday I was reminded of this fact...
I'm in a somewhat similar position and I've decided to try and take on this career path as well. OP here are a couple good resources to get started if you do decide to try and get into this industry as well.
http://www.codecademy.com/learn
Oh, well that still seems pretty nice and calm just helping people out. Do you enjoy graphic design? Also, if you're interested in getting an A+ certificate, take a look at this. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/free-a-plus/ :)
You can start here. Messer also frequents /r/CompTIA, and there is a CompTIA rep who was recently named admin over there.
Eli also has some good content, if you don't mind the occasional rant.
Personally I'e always been a hands on guy, it's how I learn. I have to see someone do it and then apply it. And that's how it sticks. So I buy a lot of shit. It's getting bad lol. But you don't have to spend a fortune. For instance, last year I got a used Netgear router for ~$20, flashed it with DDWRT and voila, got myself a really awesome switch/AP to use under my main router, a decent one. It's a learning appliance.
Another great tool most use is Virtual Box. I use this to run Win2012, and some form of Linux, right now that's Debian and Ubuntu. Because I'm always playing around with new stuff and a VM is a safe and affordable way to do it. But you can use it to get familiar with PfSense or RouterOS.
I've learned a few things just by hanggin out here and other tech subs, like /r/networking /r/techsupport /r/sysadmin and even the great /r/talesfromtechsupport
If you want to do IT stuff like network security, setting up firewalls, managing the email system you can use this site http://www.professormesser.com/ to learn. The three basic ones are the A+, Security+, Network+. With those three you are qualified for any entry level IT job.
Then you can move onto the Cisco track of certs or Microsoft certs to keep moving up.
If you want to do computer science, it's fairly easy to learn Python or Java online. Then pick up SQL and you should be fairly set.
You might find this helpful. http://certification.comptia.org/Training/testingcenters/policies/unauthorized.aspx
I had not heard of examcollection before and basically found the above list by googling for "examcollection site:comptia.org". As TechnoBabbles has said, avoid these people and braindumps in general. It's just not worth it.
My advice to you would be to avoid even the appearance of cheating or performing even seemingly unethical behavior. If you want a legit job in IT, you should always endeavor to preserve your integrity. In my first IT job they cared more about being able to trust me with privileged access than they did about my technical prowess.
Now a resource that I think is okay that I have recently discovered through Reddit is Professor Messer. Though CompTIA warns the list is not complete, he is not listed there. http://www.professormesser.com/n10-005/free-network-plus/
At any rate, congrats on the A+ and good luck with Net+.
Professor Messor is a really good site. The information he teaches is for certification training, but can be useful regardless. Start with the A+ lessons.
The Meyers guide is an awesome resource. Couple that with the Professor Messer videos as well. I'd also recommend performance-based simulator software from Pearson, too.
As of August 31, 2013 (for English versions, December 31 2013 for other languages,) the -701 and -702 series of exams were retired, and are no longer available. You can only take the 801 and 802 now in order to get A+ certified, according to CompTIA.
I did some research and find some ressources:
http://www.professormesser.com/linux-plus/linux-training-videos/
http://pluralsight.com/training/Courses/TableOfContents/comptia-linux-plus-pt1
Don't hesitate to suggest some more though !
This guy is a pretty good resource. Check out "Section 4: networking" under his A+ study videos. He also has a Network+ series. If you decide you really want to get in depth you might check out a CCNA study guide like this one. CCNA goes more into enterprise level stuff than you will need (and it's obviously cisco-centric), but you will still learn a lot of good networking theory.
The greatest advice I can give you is to watch and take detailed notes on Professor Messor's free A+ video training course.
It's very good and helped me out immensely when I took my A+ a few years ago.
Try Professor Messer’s CompTIA A+ training course videos online
You can watch the online videos for free and if you wish, you can purchase the DVDs
He also has an online chat session which anyone can log into and ask questions or just listen. There are links from his facebook page
How ironic(?) I'm a tech studied in networking, and I'm looking for a place to start learning programming/creating software. I will recommend Professor Messor (scroll down) - free courses. If you want to buy something, most any CompTia book will help. I'm not familiar with Udacity/Coursera styles, so not sure if this will help out all. =)
Professor Messor offers a free, up to date video course broken up into 10-20 minute segments. I'm about to take my exams, too, and I've found the videos to be pretty helpful so far.
Good luck!
Professor Messer's Videos and Notes are a great place to start for the certifications you mentioned..just make sure to take notes during videos and take practice exams afterwords
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-901/comptia-220-900-course/
Professor Messer will be releasing a free video course that will cover the 100-105 ICND1 sometime soon. Right now, he does have his course notes available for purchase on his web site
Look into Professer Messer. He has FREE A+, Network+ and Security+ videos. As well as study guides, study groups, etc. It is an invaluable resource of information.
You've got this. :) As for a cram sheet, I know everyone swears by Professor Messer and his course notes. Those are about as minimal as you're going to get. That's maybe 30 pages or so. It's the kind of thing you can take to the test center and skim over while you sit in the car before going in or whatever. http://www.professormesser.com/sy0-401-course-notes/
I took 901 and 902 today.
Felt great doing 901. Got 735.
Did the 902 and the first half felt horrible. The last half of the exam felt great. Went over the 1st half again and changed some answers. Got 783.
With 902 the upgrade Windows questions got me. Linux commands got me. Even the simulations were like hmm.
I didn't study much but am older and have like 17 years of personal computer experience and worked 6 months in IT now part time.
I did use the professor messer notes. They were big help and have a lot of stuff in the notes that were on the exam.
http://www.professormesser.com/220-901-902-course-notes/
And CBT Nuggets Comptia A+ 220-901 220-902
The CBT Nuggets 202-902 has some good videos. Some things in those videos were on the exam.
Good luck!
http://www.professormesser.com
Get your n+ and do the 70-680 and continue to an Mcsa. That could get you into an MSP where you'll be exposed to a ton of new material and can see where you want to go from there.
There's a ton of free videos and guides for A+, Network+ and Security+ at the Professor Messer website. He keeps it up to date with all current Comptia certs, runs 1 online study (quiz and workshop) session each month for each cert, and sells some pretty killer notepacks pretty cheap ($10 for each, last I recall). Very worth checking out if you need cheap yet quality study materials.
Here is a video that goes over all kinds of great info: http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-901/computer-interface-speeds-and-distances-2/
Wikipedia has a great page that lists all different kinds of technologies from the telegraph at 0.021 kbit/s to Hybrid memory cube at 480 GB/s. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_device_bit_rates