How to Prepare for the Cisco 100-160 Exam: A Practical Guide
Preparing for the Cisco 100-160 exam might seem like a big challenge, especially if you’re new to networking or Cisco technologies. But don’t worry — with the right strategy, you can definitely succeed and boost your career. In this blog post, we’ll share practical steps to help you prepare for the Cisco 100-160 exam, making the process simpler, less stressful, and more effective. Let’s get started!
A Complete Guide to the Cisco 100 160 Exam
The Cisco 100-160 exam is a key part of earning the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) certification. It focuses on testing your basic understanding of networking, particularly with Cisco devices and solutions. To pass, you’ll need to know the essentials of networking, such as routing, switching, IP addressing, and security. These are all important topics that will be covered in the exam.
The exam is designed to test your understanding in the following areas:
- Network Fundamentals
- Cisco Devices and Configuration
- Security Basics
- IP Addressing and Subnetting
- Routing and Switching
Before you start with preparation tips, it’s important to know that this exam is meant to be beginner-friendly, especially for those just starting out in networking. So, even if you’re not an expert yet, don’t stress — with the right effort and resources, you can definitely pass the exam.
1. Know Your Exam Objectives
The first step in your preparation is to review the exam objectives thoroughly. Cisco provides a detailed list of topics that will appear on the exam. Start by breaking down the objectives and creating a study plan around them.
Example: If you’re unsure how to break down your study plan, let’s say you allocate a week to cover IP addressing and subnetting. Spend the first few days reviewing the theory, then dedicate the remaining time to solving practical exercises and quizzes. The same can be done for other topics like routing or security fundamentals.
2. Utilize Study Materials
Once you know what to study, gather high-quality study materials. There are plenty of resources available, but the key is to focus on materials that are up-to-date, accurate, and easy to understand.
Here are some of the resources I highly recommend:
- Cisco’s Official Resources: Cisco offers free and paid resources to help you study. Their website has study guides, videos, and exam blueprints that are essential.
- DumpsLink Exam Preparation Materials: DumpsLink provides reliable 100-160 exam dumps, practice questions, and PDFs for the 100 160 exam. They’re an excellent resource to simulate the exam environment and test your knowledge in a realistic way.
- Books: Consider purchasing books such as “Cisco Networking Basics” or any Cisco exam preparation book for beginners. They often have detailed explanations and practice questions that break down complex topics into digestible parts.
3. Practice with Real Exam Questions
One of the best ways to prepare for the Cisco 100-160 exam is by practicing with actual exam questions. This will not only help you become familiar with the format of the questions but also allow you to identify weak areas in your knowledge.
Using practice tests and dumps from DumpsLink will help you understand how questions are phrased and give you a sense of how much time you need to allocate for each question during the actual exam. I personally remember how practicing exam questions helped me identify areas I needed to review, especially when I struggled with subnetting. Repeatedly practicing those questions built my confidence.
4. Master Networking Basics (IP Addressing and Subnetting)
Many people struggle with IP addressing and subnetting, but this is a crucial part of the Cisco 100-160 exam. While it may seem intimidating at first, mastering this topic is vital for passing the exam. Here’s a simple approach to help:
- Start with the Basics: Understand what IP addresses are, how they work, and what different classes (A, B, C) mean.
- Learn Subnetting Step-by-Step: Instead of trying to memorize subnetting formulas, break it down into smaller parts. Practice converting between binary and decimal, and learn how subnetting relates to network and host addresses.
- Use Visual Aids: Sometimes drawing out the subnetting process on paper can make it easier to understand. Use color coding or diagrams to make things clear.
5. Hands-On Practice with Cisco Devices
While theoretical knowledge is important, hands-on experience is equally crucial. Setting up Cisco routers, switches, and working through configuration tasks will help reinforce what you’ve learned.
If you don’t have physical Cisco devices available, there are emulators like Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3 where you can practice configuring devices virtually. These tools simulate real-world networks, allowing you to gain experience without needing access to actual equipment.
6. Create a Study Schedule and Stick to It
Consistency is key when preparing for any exam, and the Cisco 100-160 is no different. Create a study schedule that works for you, taking into consideration your personal commitments and how much time you can devote to studying each day.
Example:
- Week 1: Focus on network fundamentals, routing basics, and Cisco devices.
- Week 2: Dive into IP addressing and subnetting.
- Week 3: Review security concepts and practice exam questions.
- Week 4: Take full-length practice tests and review weak areas.
Sticking to a schedule will help ensure you cover all topics in time for the exam and prevent last-minute cramming.
7. Don’t Overlook the Basics of Security
Although the Cisco 100-160 exam focuses on fundamental networking concepts, it’s still important to understand the basics of network security. Review simple security principles such as firewalls, encryption, and VPNs, and make sure you understand how to secure a network.
In my own journey of exam prep, I initially underestimated security topics and found that they were included in several exam questions. So, don’t skip over security just because it seems secondary!
8. Review and Revise Before the Exam
As the exam day approaches, take time to go over the topics that you find most challenging. Don’t try to learn new concepts in the final days; instead, reinforce your understanding of the areas you’ve already studied.
I recommend revising with a focus on the weak spots. For example, if routing protocols confuse you, review them in detail and practice configuration tasks.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the Cisco 100-160 exam may seem like a tough challenge, but with a clear strategy, the right resources, and consistent effort, you’ll be well on your way to success. Remember, it’s all about mastering the basics and practicing regularly.
Stay confident, trust in your preparation, and don’t forget to take breaks when needed. Good luck with your exam — you’ve got this!
100-160 Sample Exam Questions and Answers
| QUESTION: 1 |
| Which of the following is a key component of a Security Incident Response Plan? Option A: gularly testing and updating the plan Option B: igning blame to individuals involved in the incident Option C: noring incidents that do not have a significant impact Option D: plementing security measures after an incident occurs |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Correct. Regularly testing and updating the plan is an essential component of a Security Incident Response Plan. It ensures that the plan remains effective and up to date. Option 2: Incorrect. Assigning blame to individuals involved in the incident is not a recommended practice in a Security Incident Response Plan. The focus should be on resolving the incident and preventing future occurrences. Option 3: Incorrect. Ignoring incidents that do not have a significant impact is not a best practice. All incidents should be investigated and classified according to their severity. Option 4: Incorrect. Implementing security measures after an incident occurs is not sufficient. Proactive security measures should be in place before an incident happens. |
| QUESTION: 2 |
| Which AWS service can be used to secure data at rest in Amazon S3? Option A: CloudTrail Option B: Key Management Service (KMS) Option C: Identity and Access Management (IAM) Option D: Shield |
| Correct Answer: B |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: AWS CloudTrail is a service for logging and monitoring account activity, and does not directly secure data at rest in Amazon S Option 2: AWS Key Management Service (KMS) is the correct answer. It is a managed service that makes it easy for you to create and control the encryption keys used to encrypt your data, and manages the underlying hardware and software needed for the cryptographic operations. Option 3: AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a service for managing user access and permissions, and does not directly secure data at rest in Amazon S Option 4: AWS Shield is a managed Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) protection service, and does not directly secure data at rest in Amazon S |
| QUESTION: 3 |
| Which feature provides secure remote access to corporate resources while ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of the data transmitted over the internet? Option A: rtual Private Network (VPN) Option B: cure Shell (SSH) Option C: cure Sockets Layer (SSL) Option D: trusion Detection System (IDS) |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the correct answer. VPN provides a secure remote access solution by encrypting the data transmitted over the internet, ensuring confidentiality. It also uses protocols like IPSec to provide integrity and authentication, ensuring that the data is not tampered with and the users are verified. Option 2: Secure Shell (SSH) is incorrect. SSH is primarily used for secure remote logins to a server or device. While it provides encryption and authentication, it does not offer the same level of network-wide secure remote access as a VPN. Option 3: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is incorrect. SSL is primarily used to establish secure connections between a client and a server, such as during HTTPS communication. While it provides encryption and authentication, it does not provide the same level of secure remote access capabilities as a VPN. Option 4: Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is incorrect. IDS is a security system that monitors network traffic for suspicious activity and helps detect and respond to potential intrusions. It does not provide secure remote access functionality like a VPN. |
| QUESTION: 4 |
| Which of the following best describes a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack? Option A: attacker intercepts communication between two parties to steal information or conduct malicious activity. Option B: attacker floods a network with traffic to overwhelm and disrupt normal operations. Option C: attacker gains unauthorized access to a system by exploiting a vulnerability. Option D: attacker tricks a user into clicking a malicious link or downloading a harmful file. |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Correct: A Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack occurs when an attacker intercepts communication between two parties to steal information or conduct malicious activity. The attacker positions themselves between the two parties, capturing data as it flows between them. Option 2: Incorrect: This answer describes a Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack, not a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack. In a DoS attack, an attacker floods a network with traffic to overwhelm and disrupt normal operations. Option 3: Incorrect: This answer describes unauthorized access via exploitation of vulnerabilities, which is a different type of attack. It does not involve intercepting communication between two parties, which is a characteristic of a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack. Option 4: Incorrect: This answer describes a phishing attack, where an attacker tricks a user into clicking a malicious link or downloading a harmful file. While phishing attacks can be part of a broader MitM attack, the specific definition of a MitM attack is intercepting communication between two parties. |
| QUESTION: 5 |
| What security measure can be used to protect data in transit between a user’s device and a cloud service? Option A: TPS Option B: N Option C: L Option D: H |
| Correct Answer: B |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. HTTPS is a secure protocol used for encrypting communication between a web browser and a web server. Option 2: Correct. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can be used to create a secure, encrypted tunnel between a user’s device and a cloud service, protecting the data in transit. Option 3: Incorrect. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a deprecated protocol that was used for securing data in transit. Option 4: Incorrect. SSH (Secure Shell) is a secure protocol used for remote login and command execution, and is not typically used for protecting data in transit between a user’s device and a cloud service. |
| QUESTION: 6 |
| Which of the following is NOT a common security threat inside the Common Security Threats section of CCST Cybersecurity? Option A: lware Option B: cial Engineering Option C: rewall Option D: ishing |
| Correct Answer: C |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. Malware is a common security threat inside the Common Security Threats section of CCST Cybersecurity. Malware refers to malicious software, such as viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware, that can infect and harm computer systems. Option 2: Incorrect. Social Engineering is a common security threat inside the Common Security Threats section of CCST Cybersecurity. Social Engineering refers to the manipulation of people into performing actions or divulging confidential information, often through deceptive techniques. Option 3: Correct. Firewall is not a common security threat inside the Common Security Threats section of CCST Cybersecurity. A firewall is a security device that monitors and filters network traffic based on predetermined security rules and policies. While firewalls can help mitigate security threats, they are not themselves a threat. Option 4: Incorrect. Phishing is a common security threat inside the Common Security Threats section of CCST Cybersecurity. Phishing refers to attempts to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, by impersonating a trustworthy entity through electronic communication. |
| QUESTION: 7 |
| Which feature in Windows 10 allows administrators to manage, secure, and monitor devices within an organization? Option A: ndows Defender Firewall Option B: crosoft Intune Option C: ndows Defender SmartScreen Option D: tLocker Drive Encryption |
| Correct Answer: B |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. Windows Defender Firewall is a feature that provides network protection and controls inbound and outbound network traffic. It does not allow administrators to manage, secure, and monitor devices within an organization. Option 2: Correct. Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based endpoint management solution that allows administrators to manage, secure, and monitor devices within an organization. It provides features such as device enrollment, policy management, software deployment, and remote device management. Option 3: Incorrect. Windows Defender SmartScreen is a feature that helps protect users from malicious websites and downloads. It does not allow administrators to manage, secure, and monitor devices within an organization. Option 4: Incorrect. BitLocker Drive Encryption is a feature that provides full disk encryption for Windows devices. It does not allow administrators to manage, secure, and monitor devices within an organization. |
| QUESTION: 8 |
| Which of the following is a best practice for securing sensitive data in transit? Option A: ing HTTP over TLS (HTTPS) Option B: ing FTP Option C: ing Telnet Option D: ing unencrypted HTTP |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Using HTTP over TLS (HTTPS) is the correct answer. HTTPS encrypts the data in transit and ensures that it cannot be intercepted or modified by unauthorized entities. Option 2: Using FTP is incorrect because FTP does not encrypt data in transit by default. It can expose sensitive information to eavesdropping and tampering. Option 3: Using Telnet is incorrect because Telnet does not encrypt data in transit. It sends information in clear text, making it vulnerable to interception and unauthorized access. Option 4: Using unencrypted HTTP is incorrect because it does not provide any encryption for data in transit. Data sent over unencrypted HTTP can be intercepted and tampered with by attackers. |
| QUESTION: 9 |
| Which of the following is a network-level security threat that targets the network infrastructure to disrupt network functionality or gain unauthorized access? Option A: lware Option B: ute-force attack Option C: tributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Option D: cial Engineering |
| Correct Answer: C |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. Malware refers to various malicious software programs that can be used to damage or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, but it is not specifically focused on targeting network infrastructure. Option 2: Incorrect. A brute- force attack is a trial-and-error method used by attackers to decode encrypted data or discover passwords by systematically trying all possible combinations. While it can impact network security, it does not specifically target the network infrastructure itself. Option 3: Correct. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) is a network-level security threat that floods a targeted system or network with an overwhelming amount of traffic, rendering it unavailable to legitimate users. It disrupts network functionality and can lead to unauthorized access. Option 4: Incorrect. Social engineering involves manipulating individuals to disclose confidential information or perform actions that compromise security. While it can impact network security, it is not specifically focused on targeting network infrastructure. |
| QUESTION: 10 |
| Which of the following is an important component of security policies and procedures? Option A: rewall Option B: tivirus software Option C: word policy Option D: trusion detection system |
| Correct Answer: C |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. While a firewall is an important security tool, it is not specifically related to security policies and procedures. Firewalls help protect networks by implementing access control policies, but they are not policies themselves. Option 2: Incorrect. Antivirus software is an essential tool for protecting against malware, but it is not directly related to security policies and procedures. Security policies and procedures provide guidelines and rules for managing security risks in an organization. Option 3: Correct. A password policy is an important component of security policies and procedures. It specifies requirements for creating and managing passwords, such as minimum length, complexity, and expiration. Option 4: Incorrect. An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a security tool that monitors network traffic for suspicious activity, but it is not directly related to security policies and procedures. Policies and procedures define how security controls are implemented and managed. |
| QUESTION: 11 |
| What is the primary reason for implementing multi-factor authentication in a cloud environment? Option A: provide an additional layer of security Option B: simplify the authentication process Option C: reduce costs Option D: improve performance |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Correct. Implementing multi-factor authentication provides an additional layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of authentication to access cloud resources. Option 2: Incorrect. The primary reason for implementing multi-factor authentication is to provide an additional layer of security, not to simplify the authentication process. Option 3: Incorrect. The primary reason for implementing multi-factor authentication is to provide an additional layer of security, not to reduce costs. Option 4: Incorrect. The primary reason for implementing multi-factor authentication is to provide an additional layer of security, not to improve performance. |
| QUESTION: 12 |
| Which of the following is a popular open-source vulnerability scanning tool? Option A: ap Option B: tasploit Option C: us Option D: reshark |
| Correct Answer: C |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. nmap is a popular open-source network scanning tool, but it is not a vulnerability scanning tool. Option 2: Incorrect. Metasploit is a popular open-source penetration testing framework, but it is not a vulnerability scanning tool. Option 3: Correct. Nessus is a popular open-source vulnerability scanning tool that helps to identify vulnerabilities in hosts and applications. Option 4: Incorrect. Wireshark is a popular open-source network protocol analyzer, but it is not a vulnerability scanning tool. |
| QUESTION: 13 |
| Which feature allows endpoints to communicate directly with each other, bypassing the network? Option A: rewall Option B: Option C: N Option D: er-to-Peer |
| Correct Answer: D |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. A firewall is a network security device that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Option 2: Incorrect. An IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) is a network security device that monitors network traffic for malicious activity and takes immediate action to prevent attacks. Option 3: Incorrect. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a secure connection between two or more endpoints over a public network, providing encryption and privacy for data communication. Option 4: Correct. Peer-to-peer (P2P) is a decentralized communication model where endpoints can directly communicate with each other without the need for a central server or network infrastructure. |
| QUESTION: 14 |
| Which of the following statements accurately describes the concept of a demilitarized zone (DMZ) in network security? Option A: DMZ is a separate network segment that sits between an internal network and an external network, providing an extra layer of security. Option B: DMZ is a virtualized network that isolates sensitive data and applications from the rest of the network. Option C: DMZ is a network configuration that enables direct communication between the internal network and external networks. Option D: DMZ is a type of firewall that filters and monitors traffic between an internal network and an external network. |
| Correct Answer: A |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Answer This is correct. A DMZ is a separate network segment that sits between an internal network and an external network, providing an extra layer of security. It acts as a buffer zone, allowing external traffic to access certain services while minimizing the risk of direct access to the internal network. Option 2: Answer This is incorrect. A DMZ is not a virtualized network, but rather a separate network segment. Option 3: Answer This is incorrect. A DMZ does not enable direct communication between the internal network and external networks, but rather restricts and controls the communication. Option 4: Answer This is incorrect. A DMZ is not a type of firewall, but rather a network configuration that utilizes firewalls and other security measures. |
| QUESTION: 15 |
| Which of the following is a characteristic of a network-based firewall? Option A: pects and filters traffic at the application layer Option B: erates at the data link layer Option C: ovides protection against external threats only Option D: quires software installed on client devices |
| Correct Answer: C |
| Explanation/Reference: Option 1: Incorrect. A network-based firewall inspects and filters traffic at the network layer, not the application layer. Option 2: Incorrect. A network-based firewall operates at the network layer, not the data link layer. Option 3: Correct. A network-based firewall provides protection against both external and internal threats. Option 4: Incorrect. A network-based firewall does not require software installed on client devices. |