Over the past few years, Cisco has transformed formerly multiple-choice, rote memorization exams into true tests of one’s application of knowledge and skills. Therefore, the BCRAN exam, as is the case with most Cisco exams, requires a good deal of planning and strategy during the preparation stage.The Building Cisco Remote Access Networks (BCRAN) exam is one of four required exams (or one of three exams, depending on the track you choose) for the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification program. In this article, I discuss what you need to know to prepare for the BCRAN 642-821 exam and cover some test-taking strategies, and provide some tips for obtaining your CCNP aswell.
In the technology arena, change is constant. On today’s networks in general, the focus is moving from Frame Relay technology to IPSec and MPLS-based VPNs. With that technology shift, and continual changes and enhancements made to Cisco’s product lines, it’s important to keep your knowledge fresh and be tested on new topics and technologies. As a result, the Cisco certification program has undergone many changes over the last few years, including the migration to more simulation-based questions. These questions accurately test a candidate’s skills in applying knowledge and methodologies, such as configuration and troubleshooting, rather than simply memorizing facts. The BCRAN exam was included in Cisco’s efforts to revamp its certification program. The exam certifies that the successful candidate has important knowledge and skills necessary to describe, configure, operate, and troubleshoot WAN and remote access solutions.
