Just Passed SY0-201 (2008) Version

I had already worked for two companies performing C&A work, held an A+, and spent 15 years in server administration and desktop support / help desk when I tested. Using this book and its CD, and studying daily for over two months, it took me two tries to pass the exam. The 2008 exam is reportedly tougher than the 2007, so if you want an easier option, consider going that route while you can. I wish I had.

Having read this book cover to cover multiple times and having reviewed the sample test questions, chapter summaries and electronic flash cards almost to the point of complete rote memorization, I can tell you that there will be a couple of questions on the test nowhere in its pages. Unless you already hold a Network+ or similar cert, pay extra attention to chapter 2. Unless your job entails daily use of cryptographic terms and limits, as well as technical writing of your company's procedural documentation, study the minutia. Have numeric values you would normally reference committed to memory for the test. There will be a few questions for which the best answer is actually somewhat debatable from what you read in this book. There is one page in the book that lists some common port numbers. Memorize them, and you may get one or two answers out of that as well.

I held back on one star because I felt it could have been much more concise. I don't need to read how important security is when I'm studying for a test on it. I also held off a star for the glossary, which was missing some terms.

The bonus material makes a big difference!

This book (the Deluxe Edition) is the same as the Study Guide with a few exceptions and those are exceptions worth noting: more study material in the form of bonus questions and appendices. One of the appendices - the lab manual - gives you hands-on exercises to walk you through the steps to not only know what the exam questions are talking about, but be able to relate them to the real world.

Great book, all I needed to pass

I purchased this book 3 weeks before I sat for the exam. The book content, flash cards and 4 practice exams were just the right balance to pass the exam. I would recommend this book to anyone needing/wanting to get the Security+ certification.