Hey, Kev thanks for the info. I read the article and it motivated me to go head with the self study. I'm planning to purchase the following 3 books:

- Gray Hat Hacking : The Ethical Hacker's Handbook
- Certified Ethical Hacker Exam Prep (Exam Prep 2)
- CEH: Official Certified Ethical Hacker Review Guide (coming in Dec 11, 2006)

I'll later write my experience on self studying and taking the CEH test to the forum.

If anybody has other suggestions or additional advise regarding the studying of CEH, just post your comments here in the forum. Thanks.

I always advice newbies to first read TCP/IP JumpStart: Internet Protocol Basics by Andrew G. Blank. This book explains the basic in an understandable writing which also includes illustration. It's easier for novice to grasp the concept after reading this book. From there, then you should read a book thats more comprehensive and deep in to details of the protocols, such as what we IT professional consider the bible of TCP/IP, The Protocols (TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 1)  by W. Richard Stevens. This book is a bit outdated and ones should also consider other resources with updated information, however this book explains the foundation of TCP/IP.

This is exactly what I need... I'll keep my finger crossed.

I'm strongly considering on taking the CEH cert and I would like know if it will be hard to pass the test without attending a boot camp. I'm thinking of acquiring several study guides and setting up a virtual lab at home for my studies. Is this a viable solution? I'm considering this approach since I can't afford a course and I know the company I work for will not pay for it. Any recommendation is greatly appreciated.

BTW, sick article and I will use it for my benefit, thanks.