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Back to 100-490 Exam

Comprehensive Study Plan for Cisco 100-490 Exam

This 8-week plan provides detailed daily goals, tasks, and activities tailored to the Cisco 100-490 exam. It leverages:

  1. Pomodoro Technique: Break study into 25-minute focused sessions with 5-minute breaks to enhance focus.
  2. Forgetting Curve: Schedule reviews at optimal intervals (Days 1, 3, 7, 14) for long-term retention.
  3. Hands-on Practice: Utilize tools like Cisco Packet Tracer to apply theoretical knowledge.

Study Plan Overview

  • Duration: 8 Weeks
  • Daily Study Time: 2-3 hours
  • Primary Focus Areas:
    • Week 1-2: General Networking Knowledge
    • Week 3-4: Cisco Equipment and Hardware
    • Week 5-6: Cisco IOS Software Operation
    • Week 7-8: Service-Related Knowledge and Mock Exams

Week 1: General Networking Knowledge (Part 1)

Goal: Build a strong foundation in networking concepts and protocols.

Day 1: OSI and TCP/IP Models

  • Objective: Understand the 7-layer OSI model and 4-layer TCP/IP model.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study the OSI model layers and their functions (e.g., Application Layer handles protocols like HTTP).
    2. Learn how TCP/IP layers map to OSI layers.
    3. Memorize protocols associated with each layer (e.g., IP in the Internet layer of TCP/IP).
    • Task Details:
      • Create a table comparing OSI and TCP/IP layers.
      • Use flashcards for key functions and protocols.
      • Watch an introductory video on OSI and TCP/IP models.
  • Activities:
    • Write down 2 examples for each layer in both models (e.g., “Transport Layer: TCP ensures reliability”).
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions (25 minutes each, with 5-minute breaks).
  • Outcome: Clear understanding of data flow through network layers.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: IPv4 Addressing

  • Objective: Grasp IPv4 addressing, classes, and subnetting basics.
  • Tasks:
    1. Learn IPv4 address structure and public/private ranges (e.g., Class A: 10.0.0.0/8).
    2. Practice converting binary IPs to decimal and vice versa.
    3. Solve 3 subnetting problems (e.g., calculate valid host ranges for a /24 subnet).
    • Task Details:
      • Memorize CIDR notation for common subnet masks (e.g., /24, /16).
      • Use online tools to check answers for subnetting problems.
  • Activities:
    • Draw examples of IP ranges for each class and explain the difference.
    • Work through subnetting scenarios on paper.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in calculating subnets and applying IPv4 addressing.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: IPv6 Addressing

  • Objective: Understand IPv6 structure, features, and benefits.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study the format of IPv6 addresses (e.g., 2001:db8::/32).
    2. Learn the use of double colons (::) for abbreviation.
    3. Write and expand 5 shortened IPv6 addresses.
    • Task Details:
      • Compare IPv4 and IPv6 features in a table.
      • Research IPv6’s role in addressing scalability.
  • Activities:
    • Watch a video on IPv6 basics.
    • Practice identifying different IPv6 segments (e.g., subnet, host).
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Understanding of IPv6’s structure and advantages.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4: Network Devices

  • Objective: Identify and understand the roles of networking devices.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study the functions of routers, switches, firewalls, and access points.
    2. Map each device to the appropriate OSI layer.
    3. Explore real-world examples of device usage.
    • Task Details:
      • Create flashcards for each device’s role and key features.
      • Write short notes on VLANs and their use with switches.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to visualize how these devices connect in a network.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Familiarity with networking devices and their functions.
  • Review Schedule: Days 5, 7, 10.

Day 5: Network Topologies

  • Objective: Learn common topologies and their pros/cons.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study star, bus, ring, and hybrid topologies.
    2. Draw diagrams illustrating each topology.
    3. Analyze advantages and disadvantages (e.g., star topology is scalable but has a single point of failure).
    • Task Details:
      • Write examples of real-world applications for each topology.
  • Activities:
    • Use a diagram tool to create neat representations of topologies.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Ability to design and evaluate network layouts.
  • Review Schedule: Days 6, 8, 11.

Day 6: Weekly Review

  • Objective: Consolidate all knowledge from Days 1–5.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review flashcards on OSI layers, IPv4/IPv6 addressing, and devices.
    2. Solve 2 subnetting problems and review incorrect answers.
    3. Take a short 10-question quiz on networking basics.
  • Activities:
    • Create a mind map summarizing Week 1 topics.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Reinforced understanding of Week 1 content.

Day 7: Practice Day

  • Objective: Apply learned concepts in a practical lab.
  • Tasks:
    1. Use Packet Tracer to design a basic network with routers and switches.
    2. Assign IPv4 addresses and verify connectivity using ping.
    3. Test a star topology setup and simulate a device failure.
    • Task Details:
      • Document the configuration steps.
      • Troubleshoot connectivity issues in the lab.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Hands-on experience with networking fundamentals.

Week 2: General Networking Knowledge (Part 2)

Goal: Deepen understanding of subnetting, protocols, troubleshooting basics, and apply concepts in practical labs.

Day 1: Advanced Subnetting

  • Objective: Master subnetting calculations for advanced scenarios.
  • Tasks:
    1. Solve subnetting problems for smaller subnets (e.g., /27, /30).
    2. Calculate valid IP ranges, broadcast addresses, and subnet IDs for multiple subnets.
    3. Practice dividing a /24 network into smaller subnets and determining the number of available hosts per subnet.
    • Task Details:
      • Write detailed explanations for each calculation step.
      • Use a subnetting calculator to verify answers and identify mistakes.
  • Activities:
    • Draw diagrams showing subnet allocation.
    • Create a reference table for common subnet masks and their corresponding host counts.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Proficiency in subnetting calculations for complex scenarios.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Key Protocols

  • Objective: Understand the functions and applications of common networking protocols.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study the roles of DNS, DHCP, ICMP, and ARP in network operations.
    2. Match each protocol to its corresponding OSI layer and explain its function.
    3. Practice using ping and traceroute to explore ICMP’s role in connectivity testing.
    • Task Details:
      • Research how DHCP dynamically assigns IPs to devices.
      • Write notes summarizing how ARP resolves MAC addresses to IPs.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to simulate DHCP and DNS configurations.
    • Draw a diagram illustrating the flow of packets through these protocols.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Strong understanding of protocol functionality and their real-world applications.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

  • Objective: Develop the ability to diagnose and resolve basic network issues.
  • Tasks:
    1. Learn the steps for diagnosing connectivity issues using ping and traceroute.
    2. Study how to identify and resolve IP conflicts in a network.
    3. Practice troubleshooting common errors like disconnected cables or incorrect subnet masks.
    • Task Details:
      • Write a checklist of steps for diagnosing and fixing network issues.
      • Simulate basic troubleshooting scenarios in Packet Tracer.
  • Activities:
    • Document each step taken to resolve a simulated issue.
    • Use flashcards to memorize troubleshooting workflows.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in identifying and resolving basic network problems.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4: Network Devices in Action

  • Objective: Apply knowledge of network devices to configure and troubleshoot a small network.
  • Tasks:
    1. Set up a network with routers, switches, and hosts using Packet Tracer.
    2. Assign IP addresses and test connectivity using ping.
    3. Troubleshoot a simulated issue, such as a disabled interface or incorrect VLAN assignment.
    • Task Details:
      • Write down all steps taken during configuration and troubleshooting.
      • Practice fixing misconfigurations and testing connectivity.
  • Activities:
    • Document configuration and troubleshooting processes for future reference.
    • Simulate multiple device issues and resolve them systematically.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Hands-on experience with configuring and troubleshooting devices.
  • Review Schedule: Days 5, 7, 10.

Day 5: Advanced Networking Scenarios

  • Objective: Practice combining multiple concepts into complex networking scenarios.
  • Tasks:
    1. Design a multi-subnet network using Packet Tracer.
    2. Configure routing between subnets and verify inter-subnet communication.
    3. Simulate and resolve issues related to incorrect IP addressing or routing table entries.
    • Task Details:
      • Write detailed notes on how routing protocols (e.g., static routes) facilitate communication.
      • Practice creating and verifying routing configurations.
  • Activities:
    • Test different network designs to understand their impact on performance and troubleshooting.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in integrating subnetting, devices, and routing configurations.

Day 6: Weekly Review

  • Objective: Consolidate all topics learned in Week 2.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review flashcards for subnetting, protocols, and troubleshooting.
    2. Solve 3 advanced subnetting problems and revisit previous incorrect answers.
    3. Take a 15-question quiz covering Week 2 topics.
    • Task Details:
      • Create a checklist of any topics needing further review.
  • Activities:
    • Use a whiteboard to map out key concepts visually.
    • Practice explaining subnetting and protocol concepts aloud.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Solidified understanding of Week 2 topics.

Day 7: Practice Day

  • Objective: Apply all Week 2 concepts in a comprehensive lab.
  • Tasks:
    1. Design a small office network with routers, switches, and multiple subnets.
    2. Configure the network and test connectivity using CLI commands.
    3. Simulate and resolve two issues, such as an IP conflict and a misconfigured ACL.
    • Task Details:
      • Document all configurations and troubleshooting steps.
      • Take notes on lessons learned during the lab.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to design and test the network.
    • Review troubleshooting processes for common errors.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Mastery of Week 2 concepts through practical application.

Week 3: Cisco Equipment and Related Hardware (Part 1)

Goal: Understand Cisco devices, hardware components, and maintenance tasks.

Day 1: Routers and Switches

  • Objective: Learn the roles and features of Cisco routers and switches.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study router functionalities (e.g., dynamic routing, WAN connectivity).
    2. Learn switch features (e.g., VLANs, Layer 2/3 switching).
    3. Create a comparison chart of routers vs. switches.
    • Task Details:
      • Research ISR series routers and Catalyst series switches.
      • Practice assigning VLANs to switch ports in Packet Tracer.
  • Activities:
    • Design a simple network in Packet Tracer with routers and switches.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Clear understanding of routers and switches in network architecture.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Wireless Controllers and Access Points

  • Objective: Understand the purpose and functionality of wireless controllers and access points.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study how Cisco wireless controllers manage multiple APs.
    2. Learn 802.11ac/ax wireless protocols and their features.
    3. Research best practices for wireless network security.
    • Task Details:
      • Draw a network diagram with a wireless controller and APs.
      • Simulate a basic wireless network configuration in Packet Tracer.
  • Activities:
    • Write down key features of 802.11 protocols.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Proficiency in understanding wireless technologies.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: Cisco ASA Firewalls

  • Objective: Learn the functions of Cisco ASA firewalls.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study firewall features like NAT, VPN, and deep packet inspection.
    2. Learn to configure ACLs to filter traffic.
    3. Practice writing simple ACL rules.
    • Task Details:
      • Simulate configuring a basic firewall in Packet Tracer.
      • Write a step-by-step guide for creating a VPN connection.
  • Activities:
    • Test firewall configurations in lab scenarios.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Understanding of Cisco ASA firewalls and their role in security.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4: Interfaces and Ports

  • Objective: Learn the types and roles of interfaces and ports on Cisco devices.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study Ethernet, SFP, and serial interfaces.
    2. Learn to troubleshoot port issues using CLI commands (show interfaces).
    3. Label a diagram of router interfaces and ports.
    • Task Details:
      • Practice identifying interface types in Packet Tracer.
  • Activities:
    • Use CLI commands to check interface status in a simulation.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Familiarity with Cisco interfaces and their configurations.
  • Review Schedule: Days 5, 7, 10.

Day 5: Hardware Storage and Power

  • Objective: Understand storage types and power components in Cisco devices.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study the roles of NVRAM, RAM, and flash memory.
    2. Learn how to check power supply and fan status using CLI.
    3. Create a summary of hardware maintenance tasks.
    • Task Details:
      • Practice using dir flash: to view storage details.
  • Activities:
    • Simulate checking storage and power status in Packet Tracer.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Understanding of storage and power components.
  • Review Schedule: Days 6, 8, 11.

Day 6: Weekly Review

  • Objective: Consolidate Week 3 knowledge.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review flashcards on hardware topics.
    2. Take a 15-question quiz on Cisco hardware concepts.
    3. Revisit labs to refine hardware configurations.
  • Activities:
    • Create a mind map summarizing hardware concepts.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Reinforced understanding of Cisco hardware.

Day 7: Practice Day

  • Objective: Apply Week 3 topics in a practical lab.
  • Tasks:
    1. Set up a network with routers, switches, and a firewall.
    2. Assign VLANs and configure interfaces.
    3. Simulate and troubleshoot hardware issues.
    • Task Details:
      • Document the configuration steps and resolutions.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Hands-on mastery of Cisco hardware.

Week 4: Cisco Equipment and Related Hardware (Part 2)

Goal: Build advanced knowledge of hardware installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Day 1: Hardware Installation

  • Objective: Learn best practices for installing Cisco devices in a rack.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study proper grounding techniques and anti-static precautions.
    2. Learn cable management strategies for organized installations.
    3. Create a checklist for hardware installation.
    • Task Details:
      • Watch a video tutorial on rack installation.
  • Activities:
    • Practice drawing a cable layout for a small network.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in performing hardware installations.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Routine Maintenance

  • Objective: Learn how to maintain Cisco devices effectively.
  • Tasks:
    1. Study how to replace SFP modules and fan units.
    2. Learn to check device temperature and fan status using show environment.
    3. Create a maintenance schedule for weekly and monthly tasks.
    • Task Details:
      • Simulate hardware checks in Packet Tracer.
  • Activities:
    • Research common issues requiring hardware replacement.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Proficiency in maintaining Cisco devices.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3-6: Comprehensive Labs

  • Objective: Combine installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Tasks:
    1. Set up a network with multiple devices and simulate hardware issues.
    2. Troubleshoot issues like interface failures and power outages.
    3. Document solutions for future reference.
    • Task Details:
      • Practice troubleshooting scenarios in Packet Tracer.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions daily.
  • Outcome: Mastery of Cisco hardware operations.

Day 7: Review and Assessment

  • Objective: Test knowledge and readiness on Cisco hardware.
  • Tasks:
    1. Take a 20-question quiz on all hardware topics.
    2. Revisit labs to review challenging scenarios.
    • Task Details:
      • Use flashcards and notes to address weak areas.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in hardware-related tasks and concepts.

Week 5: Cisco IOS Software Operation (Part 1)

Goal: Learn and apply basic Cisco IOS commands and configurations.

Day 1: Introduction to CLI Modes

  • Objective: Understand the different CLI modes and their purposes.
  • Tasks:
    1. Learn the hierarchy of CLI modes: User, Privileged, Global Configuration, and Interface Configuration.
    2. Understand when to use each mode for tasks like monitoring, configuring, and troubleshooting.
    3. Practice switching between modes using commands like enable and configure terminal.
    • Task Details:
      • Memorize CLI prompts (Router>, Router#, Router(config)#).
      • Write a brief summary of what each mode allows you to do.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to practice switching between modes on a simulated device.
    • Create a flowchart of CLI modes and their transitions.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in navigating Cisco CLI.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Common Show Commands

  • Objective: Learn essential show commands for system diagnostics.
  • Tasks:
    1. Use show version to view IOS version, device details, and uptime.
    2. Explore show running-config to analyze the current configuration.
    3. Learn show ip route to understand the routing table and connected networks.
    • Task Details:
      • Write notes summarizing the purpose of each show command.
      • Practice identifying key information from command outputs.
  • Activities:
    • Run each command in Packet Tracer and note how the output changes after making configuration changes.
    • Take a screenshot of a routing table and label key components.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Ability to retrieve and interpret device information.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: Basic Configuration

  • Objective: Set up a device with basic settings like hostname, IP address, and default gateway.
  • Tasks:
    1. Use the hostname command to name a device.
    2. Configure an interface with an IP address and enable it using no shutdown.
    3. Save the running configuration to NVRAM with copy running-config startup-config.
    • Task Details:
      • Document the configuration steps.
      • Practice setting up a simple topology in Packet Tracer with two routers and a switch.
  • Activities:
    • Write a checklist of basic configuration tasks and verify each step in the simulator.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Proficiency in basic device setup.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4: Interface Configuration

  • Objective: Configure interfaces and verify their status.
  • Tasks:
    1. Assign IP addresses to interfaces and bring them up using no shutdown.
    2. Use show ip interface brief to verify interface status and connectivity.
    3. Troubleshoot a simulated interface issue (e.g., mismatched IPs or disabled interfaces).
    • Task Details:
      • Write down common interface errors and solutions.
      • Practice configuring multiple interfaces on a router and a switch.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to test different configurations and connectivity scenarios.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Understanding of interface configuration and troubleshooting.
  • Review Schedule: Days 5, 7, 10.

Day 5-6: Practice and Review

  • Objective: Consolidate knowledge of basic CLI commands and configurations.
  • Tasks:
    1. Solve 3 practical scenarios involving basic configurations (e.g., incorrect IP, default gateway not set).
    2. Review flashcards for common commands and their purposes.
    3. Take a 15-question quiz on IOS commands and configurations.
    • Task Details:
      • Analyze errors in configuration scenarios and write solutions.
  • Activities:
    • Revisit labs and refine configurations for efficiency.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Reinforced understanding of IOS basics.

Day 7: Weekly Lab

  • Objective: Apply Week 5 concepts in a practical simulation.
  • Tasks:
    1. Set up a small network with routers and switches.
    2. Configure basic settings, including hostnames, IP addresses, and interfaces.
    3. Test connectivity using ping and traceroute.
    • Task Details:
      • Document all configuration steps and test results.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Hands-on proficiency with IOS basics.

Week 6: Cisco IOS Software Operation (Part 2)

Goal: Learn advanced configurations, TFTP operations, and troubleshooting techniques.

Day 1: TFTP Operations

  • Objective: Manage IOS files and backups using TFTP.
  • Tasks:
    1. Set up a TFTP server and transfer an IOS file to a device.
    2. Back up the running configuration to the TFTP server.
    3. Restore a configuration from the TFTP server.
    • Task Details:
      • Write a step-by-step guide for performing TFTP operations.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to simulate TFTP file transfers.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in managing IOS files with TFTP.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Firmware Upgrades

  • Objective: Perform and verify IOS firmware upgrades.
  • Tasks:
    1. Learn the steps to upgrade IOS firmware using boot system commands.
    2. Verify the upgrade with show version.
    3. Troubleshoot common upgrade issues (e.g., corrupted files, incorrect paths).
    • Task Details:
      • Practice on a simulator and document the upgrade process.
  • Activities:
    • Create a checklist for verifying successful upgrades.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Ability to perform and verify firmware upgrades.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: Troubleshooting with CLI

  • Objective: Use advanced CLI commands to diagnose and fix issues.
  • Tasks:
    1. Practice using debug ip routing to monitor routing behavior.
    2. Use show logging to analyze system logs.
    3. Simulate and troubleshoot a network issue (e.g., missing routes, misconfigured interfaces).
    • Task Details:
      • Write down common troubleshooting workflows.
  • Activities:
    • Document troubleshooting steps for simulated issues.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Improved diagnostic skills using CLI.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4-6: Advanced Labs

  • Objective: Apply advanced IOS concepts in a simulated environment.
  • Tasks:
    1. Configure a multi-device network with VLANs and routing protocols.
    2. Perform TFTP operations and test firmware upgrades.
    3. Resolve multiple simulated issues and document solutions.
    • Task Details:
      • Use Packet Tracer to create a lab scenario with multiple devices.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions daily.
  • Outcome: Mastery of advanced IOS operations.

Day 7: Weekly Review

  • Objective: Consolidate all knowledge from Week 6.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review flashcards for advanced IOS commands and troubleshooting workflows.
    2. Take a 20-question quiz on advanced IOS topics.
    3. Revisit challenging labs for additional practice.
    • Task Details:
      • Highlight and address areas requiring improvement.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Strong grasp of advanced IOS skills.

Week 7: Service-Related Knowledge

Goal: Master Cisco service processes, diagnostic tools, and troubleshooting techniques.

Day 1: Cisco TAC Services

  • Objective: Understand the role of Cisco TAC (Technical Assistance Center) and its troubleshooting support.
  • Tasks:
    1. Learn how TAC assists in resolving complex issues.
    2. Study the process for generating diagnostic files using show tech-support.
    3. Understand how to open a TAC case through Cisco's support portal.
    • Task Details:
      • Memorize steps for uploading diagnostics to TAC.
      • Create a flowchart of the TAC troubleshooting workflow.
  • Activities:
    • Run show tech-support in a simulator and analyze its output.
    • Watch a Cisco TAC workflow video for deeper understanding.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in leveraging TAC for troubleshooting.
  • Review Schedule: Days 2, 4, 7.

Day 2: Cisco Documentation and Tools

  • Objective: Learn how to use Cisco's documentation and tools for troubleshooting and configuration.
  • Tasks:
    1. Familiarize yourself with Cisco’s official documentation and support portal.
    2. Explore tools like Cisco CLI Analyzer for diagnosing configuration issues.
    3. Practice searching for specific configuration guides or troubleshooting tips.
    • Task Details:
      • Document key sections of the Cisco resource center for quick reference.
      • Test the CLI Analyzer on sample outputs.
  • Activities:
    • Simulate troubleshooting scenarios with documentation-based solutions.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 sessions.
  • Outcome: Proficiency in navigating Cisco resources.
  • Review Schedule: Days 3, 5, 8.

Day 3: Diagnostic Commands

  • Objective: Learn key diagnostic commands and how to interpret their outputs.
  • Tasks:
    1. Use show logging to review system logs for errors.
    2. Learn how to interpret show ip interface brief for interface issues.
    3. Practice identifying configuration errors with show running-config.
    • Task Details:
      • Write examples of common error messages and resolutions.
  • Activities:
    • Simulate a misconfigured device and resolve it using diagnostic commands.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Ability to diagnose network issues effectively.
  • Review Schedule: Days 4, 6, 9.

Day 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Objective: Develop workflows for resolving common physical and logical issues.
  • Tasks:
    1. Identify and resolve IP conflicts in a simulated network.
    2. Troubleshoot ACLs blocking legitimate traffic.
    3. Use ping and traceroute for connectivity checks.
    • Task Details:
      • Document step-by-step troubleshooting workflows.
      • Test your workflow in Packet Tracer scenarios.
  • Activities:
    • Create a checklist for diagnosing and fixing network issues.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Confidence in resolving common issues.
  • Review Schedule: Days 5, 7, 10.

Day 5-6: Practice Labs

  • Objective: Combine service knowledge and troubleshooting into a practical lab.
  • Tasks:
    1. Simulate a network with multiple issues (e.g., down interfaces, misconfigured VLANs).
    2. Resolve each issue systematically and document the process.
    3. Use show and debug commands to validate fixes.
    • Task Details:
      • Practice in Packet Tracer with complex lab setups.
  • Activities:
    • Test diagnostic commands in real-time troubleshooting scenarios.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions daily.
  • Outcome: Mastery of troubleshooting techniques.

Day 7: Weekly Review

  • Objective: Consolidate all service-related knowledge from Week 7.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review flashcards for TAC workflows and diagnostic commands.
    2. Take a 20-question quiz on service-related topics.
    3. Revisit any unresolved labs for additional practice.
    • Task Details:
      • Highlight weak areas for targeted review in Week 8.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Reinforced knowledge and troubleshooting confidence.

Week 8: Final Exam Preparation

Goal: Prepare for the exam with comprehensive reviews, mock tests, and practical labs.

Day 1: Full-Topic Review

  • Objective: Review all topics covered in Weeks 1–7.
  • Tasks:
    1. Use flashcards to review OSI layers, protocols, CLI commands, and hardware concepts.
    2. Solve 10 subnetting problems with varying difficulty levels.
    3. Practice writing out key IOS commands from memory.
    • Task Details:
      • Create a checklist of all exam topics and mark off reviewed sections.
  • Activities:
    • Use Packet Tracer to simulate network configurations for review.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Comprehensive understanding of all exam topics.

Day 2: Mock Exam 1

  • Objective: Simulate the real exam environment.
  • Tasks:
    1. Take a timed, full-length 90-minute mock exam covering all topics.
    2. Analyze your performance and identify weak areas.
    • Task Details:
      • Focus on time management during the exam.
      • Create a list of topics to revisit based on incorrect answers.
  • Activities:
    • Use the mock exam report to refine your study plan for the week.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Awareness of strengths and weaknesses.

Day 3-4: Weak Area Review

  • Objective: Strengthen areas identified as weak during the mock exam.
  • Tasks:
    1. Revisit specific topics (e.g., TFTP operations, diagnostic commands).
    2. Solve targeted problems or redo relevant labs.
    3. Test understanding with practice questions and flashcards.
    • Task Details:
      • Use Packet Tracer to reinforce practical skills.
  • Activities:
    • Focus on correcting mistakes and preventing similar errors in the real exam.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions daily.
  • Outcome: Improved confidence in weaker areas.

Day 5: Mock Exam 2

  • Objective: Measure improvement with another timed, full-length exam.
  • Tasks:
    1. Take the second mock exam under realistic conditions.
    2. Analyze results and focus on any remaining weak areas.
    • Task Details:
      • Practice skipping difficult questions and revisiting them later to save time.
  • Activities:
    • Review incorrect answers and write explanations for the correct solutions.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Enhanced readiness for the real exam.

Day 6: Final Review

  • Objective: Consolidate all knowledge before exam day.
  • Tasks:
    1. Revisit notes, diagrams, and flashcards for last-minute revisions.
    2. Solve 5 complex lab scenarios involving multiple configurations.
    3. Take a short 15-question quiz to stay sharp.
    • Task Details:
      • Focus on topics where you scored lowest in the mock exams.
  • Activities:
    • Write a step-by-step guide for key processes like TFTP operations and ACL configurations.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 3 sessions.
  • Outcome: Complete confidence in exam readiness.

Day 7: Rest and Exam Day Preparation

  • Objective: Prepare mentally and physically for exam day.
  • Tasks:
    1. Review the exam checklist (e.g., ID, registration details, location).
    2. Take a light 5-question quiz to keep concepts fresh.
    3. Practice relaxation techniques to manage pre-exam stress.
    • Task Details:
      • Double-check your exam schedule and ensure you have everything needed.
  • Activities:
    • Visualize success and focus on staying calm.
  • Pomodoro Sessions: 2 light sessions.
  • Outcome: Calm, confident, and ready for exam day.