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MPLS Configuration on Cisco IOS Software Review by Jeff Sicuranza
Excellent even with some of the mistakes
First off the publishing date for 1st edition June 2010 is confusing.
I purchased this book back in 06. I have been in IT a long time(26 years) and working with Cisco since IOS 9x.
I am a networking consultant with a successful practice of over 15 years and have implemented and troubleshot all kinds of network related issues.
I am a CCNP/DP recert 3 times over. I stepped away from Networking for a few years to pursue an energy related venture which was fun.
I am getting back into networking for I miss it and wanted to brush up. After my Doyle re-reads and all the others as well I decided to go through this book. I had it in 06 but never got to it.
Yes, there are mistakes in the book as other reviewers had mentioned and you have to be aware of them but this will keep you sharp in your reading and should prevent you to not let the book lead you into becoming a config. or text rehash drone.
I learned a tremendous amount and had to catch up on some other topics. Plus, you strengthen other areas as well, BGP, MBGP and nuances of IGPs.
The book is laid out to be used as either a reference book or a step by step chapter by chapter progression. I am only a quarter of the way through it and implementing many of the scenarios in my lab and sniffing them to observe and fully understand the mechanics of the various protocols involved operate.
The process and mechanics of the protocols and scenarios involved are laid out easily to grasp and practice. Aside from the mistakes the diagrams and illustrations are excellent to help reinforce the concepts. You may not need to go through every chapter but the first 6 or 7 are critical and the rest cover some areas that are relevant today L2TPv3 and VPLS in your environment.
The configuration examples are easy to follow but do presume you already have some R/S IGP/EGP experience. I do wish the book provide additional show and troubleshooting commands beyond the basic verification ones provided. That combination would make this book a one stop shop all time great. But there are other book just dedicated to troubleshooting MPLS and you always have CCO.
I find it an excellent learning resource and professional reference for the future. I will get the next edition (error free I hope) when it comes out. A definite plus for your engineering library.
P.S. I also highly recommend "Selecting MPLS VPN Services" also from 06 but it covers the varying options from an enterprise perspective easily and provides tidbits you never would consider. I just finished it while reading MPLS Configuration and they complement each other very well, so another great addition to your library.
I am considering CCIP but I am waiting for any updates since the recent NP/DP tracks had changed.
Good luck to all on your studying or projects.