Blog

The story of my networking adventures.

My work buddy told me almost two years ago that he was starting cybersecurity training. I was intrigued and decided to explore more about it myself. I remember watching a YouTube video about how someone set up switches and routers in the virtual lab. I was fascinated by the process and knew that I desired to learn more about the network and how it works.

I thought it was so easy back then that I could do it myself with some practice. I have started practicing in the lab and obtaining knowledge of how it works. I fell in love.

I was clearly wrong. it was not as easy as I thought. I have started to realise that networking is a massive topic that requires continuous learning and dedication to truly master during your entire active career. This is not a subject that can be easily taken.

I assume most of us are familiar with the famous expression "love is blind."

Yes, love needs sacrifice and... commitment.

My journey with networking has begun. It's probably more accurate to say that my never-ending networking study began.

My mentors told me that learning networks need sacrifice and extra work, but they will pay off in the end.

I'm currently working on my CCNA, and I did not just get this certificate to pass; I wanted to really understand the ideas. I was told that CCNA would help me build a strong foundation of network knowledge from the ground up. This journey is going to be exciting for me.

Personally, I cannot just be tied to the CCNA learning all the time, for better or worse. I find it too boring, and I could get tired of learning the same things over and over. There are a lot of tasks I desire to do, such as coding automation and lab. I need to spend time in the lab to put what I have learnt into practice. Also, I need to touch real devices, like routers and switches, to feel like I tested and confirmed what I learnt.

But this is one of the great things about networking. You can always learn and discover something new. I like that it keeps me on my toes and lets me keep pushing myself.

There is, however, a flip side to this coin: learning different things in the same time does not help me reach my targets and planned goals, such as getting the CCNA certification on time.

Which is right? More time spent to get certified or keep learning interesting? No idea; I'm just trying to keep things in check.

Believe me, I am not as smart as I want to be, and some ideas are hard for me to understand at first. I know that if I work hard and don't give up, I can get through them, but it sometimes hurts.

But, when you learnt something, did you ever have a "Wow!" moment? 

Gaining new knowledge is one of the most wonderful things that has ever happened to me. It pushes constantly forward and backward. 

I want to say it again: the journey is not easy, but the hard parts make the wins taste even better.

p.s.

Thank you to my mentors for continuous support.

Raf Jablonsky