MikroTik Certified Switching Engineer (MTCSWE)
1 Introduction to Networking
1-1 Basic Networking Concepts
1-2 OSI Model
1-3 TCPIP Model
1-4 Network Devices
2 MikroTik RouterOS Basics
2-1 Introduction to RouterOS
2-2 RouterOS Interface Types
2-3 Basic Configuration
2-4 User Management
2-5 System Logging
3 Switching Fundamentals
3-1 Introduction to Switching
3-2 MAC Addresses
3-3 Ethernet Frame Structure
3-4 VLAN Basics
3-5 Trunking and Inter-VLAN Routing
4 MikroTik SwitchOS Basics
4-1 Introduction to SwitchOS
4-2 SwitchOS Interface Types
4-3 Basic Configuration
4-4 User Management
4-5 System Logging
5 VLAN Configuration
5-1 VLAN Creation and Configuration
5-2 VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP)
5-3 Inter-VLAN Routing
5-4 VLAN Security
6 Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
6-1 Introduction to STP
6-2 STP Operation
6-3 Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP)
6-4 Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP)
6-5 STP Configuration
7 Link Aggregation
7-1 Introduction to Link Aggregation
7-2 Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
7-3 Static Link Aggregation
7-4 Link Aggregation Configuration
8 Quality of Service (QoS)
8-1 Introduction to QoS
8-2 QoS Models
8-3 Traffic Shaping and Policing
8-4 QoS Configuration
9 Security Features
9-1 Introduction to Network Security
9-2 Port Security
9-3 Access Control Lists (ACLs)
9-4 DHCP Snooping
9-5 Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI)
10 Advanced Switching Topics
10-1 Layer 3 Switching
10-2 Multicast Routing
10-3 Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
10-4 Power over Ethernet (PoE)
11 Troubleshooting and Maintenance
11-1 Common Switching Issues
11-2 Troubleshooting Tools
11-3 Switch Maintenance
11-4 Backup and Restore
12 MikroTik Certification Exam Preparation
12-1 Exam Overview
12-2 Study Tips
12-3 Practice Questions
12-4 Exam Registration and Scheduling
12 MikroTik Certification Exam Preparation Explained

12 MikroTik Certification Exam Preparation Explained

Key Concepts of MikroTik Certification Exam Preparation

Preparing for the MikroTik Certified Switching Engineer (MTCSWE) exam involves mastering several key concepts. These include:

Understanding Exam Objectives

Familiarize yourself with the topics and skills tested in the MTCSWE exam. This includes understanding the weightage of different sections and the types of questions asked.

Example: Review the official exam blueprint to understand that 30% of the exam covers switching concepts, 20% covers routing, and 10% covers security features.

Hands-On Practice

Gain practical experience with MikroTik devices and software. This hands-on practice helps in understanding the real-world application of theoretical concepts.

Example: Set up a small network using MikroTik routers and switches. Configure VLANs, DHCP, and routing to simulate a real-world scenario.

Study Materials

Utilize official MikroTik documentation, training courses, and practice exams. These resources provide comprehensive coverage of the exam topics.

Example: Enroll in an official MikroTik training course and use the MikroTik Wiki as a reference for detailed explanations and configuration examples.

Time Management

Develop strategies to manage time effectively during the exam. This includes pacing yourself and allocating time to different sections of the exam.

Example: Practice taking mock exams under timed conditions to get a feel for the pace required to complete the exam within the allotted time.

Mock Exams

Take practice tests to simulate the exam environment and identify areas for improvement. Mock exams help in understanding the format and difficulty level of the actual exam.

Example: Use MikroTik's official practice exams and third-party resources to test your knowledge and identify weak areas that need further study.

Review and Feedback

Analyze your performance in mock exams to refine your knowledge and skills. Reviewing your answers and understanding the correct solutions is crucial for improvement.

Example: After taking a mock exam, review each question and understand why the correct answer is correct. Discuss any doubts with peers or mentors.

Networking Concepts

Deepen your understanding of fundamental networking principles. A strong foundation in networking is essential for mastering MikroTik-specific features.

Example: Study the OSI model, TCP/IP protocols, and subnetting to build a solid understanding of how networks function at a fundamental level.

MikroTik Specific Features

Master unique features and functionalities of MikroTik devices. This includes understanding the MikroTik RouterOS and its various applications.

Example: Learn how to configure Hotspot, VPN, and QoS features on MikroTik devices. Understand the differences and use cases for each feature.

Troubleshooting Techniques

Learn how to diagnose and resolve common network issues. Effective troubleshooting skills are crucial for maintaining network stability and performance.

Example: Practice using tools like ping, traceroute, and Wireshark to identify and resolve connectivity issues in a MikroTik network.

Security Best Practices

Implement secure configurations and understand common threats. Security is a critical aspect of network management, and MikroTik devices offer various security features.

Example: Configure firewall rules, implement VLANs, and enable encryption protocols like WPA2 to secure a MikroTik network.

Documentation Skills

Improve your ability to document network configurations and changes. Detailed documentation helps in troubleshooting and maintaining network integrity.

Example: Create a network diagram that includes IP addresses, VLANs, and routing paths. Document each configuration change and its rationale.

Community and Support

Engage with the MikroTik community and support resources. The MikroTik community is a valuable resource for learning and troubleshooting.

Example: Join the MikroTik forums and participate in discussions. Use the MikroTik support center to find solutions to common issues and stay updated on new features.