Holen

While I agree with mostly everything Linus had to say, I can't take him seriously because of the socks and sandals. Sorry @LinusTech

You could probably set it up with that guide, and for the starting and stopping you could use magic packets and set the power settings to turn of your computer when you have been away for a certain amount of time

Yes, there is nothing more satisfying that having 4 months to read up on 10 months worth of stuff.
Having to be able to distinguish between OSPF and it's priority system versus other routing protocols.
As well as having to do this while working part time, and having subjects such as hacking and scripting...

To anyone wondering, the CCNA exam is considered the most difficult beginners certification. if you take the CCENT then the CCNA, you will realize the CCENT is a piece of cake compared(as it covers basically nothing)

If you go for a CCENT, you should atleast consider a CCNA. It is difficult, but it is worth it for most people

CCNE after?  when you've worked in the business for a long enough while

I would just put on a ping or tracert that runs every 2nd minute, or something of the likes. if you get it you will see it