It is fairly well documented that Cisco has introduced a new “Real World” approach to the CCIE.  The CCIE Lab exam now tries to test students on two  levels.

Troubleshooting - You are given 35+ routers and switches with around ten configuration scenarios/issues within the topology. Most of these issues/faults must be fixed within two hours or it’s an instant fail. Don’t under-estimate this section!!!

There are several providers outthere that offer workbooks dedicated to practicing troubleshooting. I personally used INE, volume 4 which tested your knowledge and know-how.

Configuration - Implement a series of configurations as per requirements set by the proctor

When preparing and studying for your CCIE lab exam, don’t make the mistake of not preparing for the Troubleshooting test in the same way as preparing for the Configuration section. If you do not resolve the network issues within the scheduled time-frame, it’s an instant fail regardless of how you perform in the Configuration section of the test. Troubleshooting training is required in addition to configuration training. If you don’t want to take my word for it, you can checkout a sample and judge for yourself. It is surprisingly difficult and just as challedging as the configuration section of the exam. For more information on troubleshooting training, checkout the workbooks to ensure they also offer troubleshooting aswell as configuration training.

CCIE Workbooks – An essential tool in your preparations for the Cisco CCIE lab exam. We have complied a list of CCIE workbook providers from around the globe to assist students with their studies. Click here to view the full list

Our List of CCIE Workbook Providers – VIEW HERE