One of the most frequent questions we get is what to read. Cisco has a recommended reading list, but it’s a bit dated. Let’s start at the beginning. I really like Wendell Odom’s writing style, and he wrote the quintessential guide to the Routing and Switch CCIE:
CCIE Routing and Switching Certification Guide
It covers most of what you need to know- but at a high level. You’re going to need to supplement your knowledge with additional books.
I read Jeff’s Doyle’s books when I was working on my CCNP, and I’m glad I did. They’re thorough, thoughtful, and not agonizing to read. I still refer back to them to brush up on tech before I work labs:
Routing TCP/IP, Volume 1
Routing TCP/IP, Volume II
I hate QOS. For me I just had a hard time getting it. This book helps the process quite a bit.
Cisco QOS Exam Certification Guide.
Also grab the 3560 Configuration Guide from Cisco- it’s actually not a bad read- and yes you can use it on the lab.
Since you’ve got that all important troubleshooting section you must pass to get your CCIE, a book that helps you study would be helpful, right? This one has also helped me fix production issues several times- it definitely belongs on your CCIE bookcase.
Troubleshooting IP Routing Protocols
When you’re ready to get serious about multicast, check out:
Developing IP Multicast Networks. Yes it’s old, and it still contains lots of great information.