Technology Forum

i would really like to know what type of hands on knowledge i should know before taking the network+ so it's not just a paper certification? i want to know what tools do i need as a networking admin? and what hands on work i should have done to qualify as a network+ pro? and if you guys can recommend a good book for the hands on portion of network+ i'd appreciate it. i like books with pictures and photos in them. let me know. so far i'm thinking of using exam prep 2 network+ and mike meyers network+ and cbt and trainsignal, but i'd like to get something a little bit more hands on if possible with more photos and descriptions and really up to date if possible.