We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Lazaro (Laz) Diaz

This course is several hours long and will cover OSPF at great lengths. I will explain the inner workings of this highly scalable and complexed protocol.

It is the students responsibility to have these to practice with. The Cisco Packet Tracer and/or VIRAL (Virtual Internet Routing Lab) are Cisco proprietary software and can only be obtained through Cisco. It is up to each student to obtain the simulator/emulator of their choice to study along with this course.

Students will get a thorough understanding of OSPF and how we would implement it in a real world environment.

Read more

This course is several hours long and will cover OSPF at great lengths. I will explain the inner workings of this highly scalable and complexed protocol.

It is the students responsibility to have these to practice with. The Cisco Packet Tracer and/or VIRAL (Virtual Internet Routing Lab) are Cisco proprietary software and can only be obtained through Cisco. It is up to each student to obtain the simulator/emulator of their choice to study along with this course.

Students will get a thorough understanding of OSPF and how we would implement it in a real world environment.

We will discuss the following concepts OSPF terminology; process ID’s We will be configuring OSPF in a point-to-point and broadcast type of network and understand the differences between them. Analyze the election process of DR and BDR using loopback addresses, priority numbers or putting in the router id manually.

Once you get an understanding of how OSPF works and it’s configurations we will then go into explaining and creating multiple area OSPF and OSPFV3 and analyze them as well.

This is a lecture based course using the Touch-IT Technology Smart board, which will make learning very interactive and engaging. Hands on labs will be used to drill down the concepts learned in each lecture using Cisco’s Packet Tracer.

My method will make you feel like you are sitting in a classroom environment and give the most needed hands on experience.

Handouts will be available to facilitate learning and practice.

This course will help the student become familiar with OSPF routing using various methods and how to implement them in your environment…but it will also help in preparing for any networking certification or Computer Science Degree; not to mention the fact that for those already in the field, it will further improve routing decisions in their particular networks.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Once you finish my course, you will have a strong grasp of ospf of its configurations and terminology.
  • Mastering this knowledge will make the student, networking and/or it professional a much more valuable asset in any it environment.
  • The understanding of ospf routing concepts is an essential element for any networking and/or it professional.
  • This course will prepare the student for any networking career that uses ospf in their network

Syllabus

The Basics of OSPF

In this Lecture, I am sending out a message to the students to stay motivated and focused to reach their goal and attain the CCNA Certification.

Read more

In this lecture I will briefly discuss all the concepts will be going over in this course

In this lecture we will learn the different terms used in OSPF routing, and compare OSPF to distance vector routing protocols.

In this lecture will discuss neighbor adjacency, LSA flooding and SPF tree calculation

In this lecture we will discuss what OSPF uses as basis to be able to calculate the shortestPath to a network

In this lecture we will discuss what OSPF uses as basis to be able to calculate the shortestPath to a network

In this lecture we will look at how OSPF comes up with the metrics

In this lecture will show how to start configuring OSPF, but will focus on the Process ID number portion

In this lecture will show how to start configuring OSPF, but will focus on the Area

portion

IN THIS BRIEF LAB YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO USE DOTTED DECIMAL ADDRESSES AS YOUR AREAS. INSTEAD OF PUTTING IN AREA 0, IT WOULD BE AREA 0.0.0.0.

In this lecture we will be looking at some wildcard examples

In this lecture we will use the Packet Tracer and configure OSPF using three routers in a

point-to-point network

In this lecture we will configure four routers using OSPF in the same broadcastdomain, in order to analyze the election process of a DR/BDR

In this lecture we will configure in our existing network the “Passive interface”

Command and analyze what are the results

In this lecture we will configure in our existing network the “default-informationoriginate” command and analyze what are the results

In this lecture we will learn how to analyze the output of the “show ip ospf

command

In this lecture we will learn how to analyze the output of the “show ip ospf database

command.

In this lecture we will learn how to analyze the output of the “show ip ospf interface

command

In this lecture we will learn how to analyze the output of the “show ip ospf neighbor

command.

In this lecture will understand the flexibility and scalability of OSPF by creating multiple areas

In this lecture will discuss the many different types of components that exist in a multi-area OSPF

In this lecture you will configure a large topology using Ethernet and analyze whathappens to the type of LSA’s that get sent.

In this lecture you will configure a three router multi-area topology

In this lecture we will use OSPF multi-area configuration, advanced setting

In this lecture we will be configuring the IPv6 version of OSPF.

In this lecture we will bring all that we learned and summarize it.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Uses Cisco Packet Tracer and VIRAL, which are industry-standard tools for network simulation and emulation, providing practical experience
Covers OSPFv3, which is essential for modern networks using IPv6, ensuring relevance in current networking environments
Explores the election process of DR and BDR, which is crucial for understanding OSPF network behavior and troubleshooting
Requires students to independently obtain Cisco Packet Tracer or VIRAL, which may present a barrier to entry for some learners
Focuses on configuring OSPF in point-to-point and broadcast networks, which are fundamental concepts for network design and implementation
Analyzes the output of various 'show ip ospf' commands, which is essential for network monitoring and troubleshooting in real-world scenarios

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Detailed cisco ospf protocol guide

This analysis is based on the course description and syllabus, as student review data was not available. The course 'Cisco OSPF Breakdown!' is designed to provide a thorough understanding of OSPF, covering everything from basic terminology and configuration to multiple area OSPF and OSPFv3 (IPv6). It focuses on real-world implementation and includes hands-on labs for practice, primarily using Cisco Packet Tracer (which students must obtain). The course is aimed at networking and IT professionals seeking to enhance their skills and prepare for certifications. It uses a lecture-based format with interactive elements to simulate a classroom experience.
Lecture-based with interactive teaching style.
"This is a lecture based course using the Touch-IT Technology Smart board, which will make learning very interactive and engaging."
"My method will make you feel like you are sitting in a classroom environment"
"Handouts will be available to facilitate learning and practice."
"Discuss concepts, configure networks, and analyze outputs using show commands."
Practical labs using Cisco Packet Tracer.
"Hands on labs will be used to drill down the concepts learned in each lecture using Cisco’s Packet Tracer."
"My method... will give the most needed hands on experience."
"Students will get a thorough understanding of OSPF and how we would implement it in a real world environment."
"Configure OSPF using three routers in a point-to-point network and analyze the election process of a DR/BDR."
Covers OSPF from basics to advanced topics.
"The course covers OSPF from basic concepts all the way through multi-area configurations."
"It aims to explain the inner workings of this highly scalable and complexed protocol."
"Discussion includes OSPF terminology, process IDs, network types, DR/BDR election, and OSPFV3."
"Topics range from initial configuration to advanced multi-area setups."
Relevant for IT pros and certification prep.
"Mastering this knowledge will make the student... a much more valuable asset in any IT environment."
"This course will help the student become familiar with OSPF routing... but it will also help in preparing for any networking certification or Computer Science Degree;"
"for those already in the field, it will further improve routing decisions in their particular networks."
"This course will prepare the student for any networking career that uses OSPF in their Network"
Packet Tracer or VIRAL software is needed.
"It is the students responsibility to have these [simulators] to practice with."
"The Cisco Packet Tracer and/or VIRAL... can only be obtained through Cisco."
"It is up to each student to obtain the simulator/emulator of their choice to study along with this course."
"Hands on labs... using Cisco’s Packet Tracer."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cisco OSPF Breakdown! with these activities:
Review TCP/IP Fundamentals
Reinforce your understanding of TCP/IP, which is essential for grasping OSPF's role in network communication.
Browse courses on TCP/IP
Show steps
  • Review the OSI model and TCP/IP stack.
  • Study IP addressing and subnetting concepts.
  • Practice basic network troubleshooting commands.
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1
Solidify your understanding of OSPF by studying a comprehensive guide.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to OSPF fundamentals and configuration.
  • Take notes on key concepts and algorithms.
  • Relate the book's content to the course lectures and labs.
Read OSPF: Anatomy of an Internet Routing Protocol
Deepen your understanding of OSPF internals and design principles by studying a comprehensive guide.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to OSPF fundamentals and configuration.
  • Take notes on key concepts and algorithms.
  • Relate the book's content to the course lectures and labs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Configure OSPF in Packet Tracer
Solidify your OSPF configuration skills by practicing various scenarios in Cisco Packet Tracer.
Browse courses on Cisco Packet Tracer
Show steps
  • Set up a basic network topology with multiple routers.
  • Configure OSPF on each router, defining areas and network types.
  • Verify OSPF neighbor relationships and routing tables.
  • Troubleshoot any connectivity issues.
Document OSPF Configuration
Improve your understanding of OSPF by documenting the configuration of a network.
Browse courses on Documentation
Show steps
  • Choose a network topology.
  • Configure OSPF on the network.
  • Document the configuration.
Design and Implement a Multi-Area OSPF Network
Apply your knowledge of OSPF by designing and implementing a multi-area network in a simulated environment.
Browse courses on Network Design
Show steps
  • Plan a network topology with multiple areas and routers.
  • Configure OSPF on each router, ensuring proper area assignments.
  • Implement route summarization and filtering to optimize routing.
  • Test network connectivity and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Document the network design and configuration.
Contribute to OSPF Documentation
Deepen your understanding of OSPF by contributing to open source documentation.
Browse courses on OSPF
Show steps
  • Find an open source project that uses OSPF.
  • Identify areas where the documentation can be improved.
  • Contribute to the documentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Cisco OSPF Breakdown! will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Engineer
A Network Engineer designs, implements, and manages an organization's computer networks, ensuring their reliability and efficiency. This role requires a deep understanding of routing protocols, and this course on OSPF thoroughly covers the concepts and configurations central to this aspect of networking. A Network Engineer will use the skills learned in this course to configure OSPF in various network environments, optimize routing decisions, implement multi-area OSPF, and verify OSPF configurations, all of which this course thoroughly covers including a summary of OSPF routing. Furthermore, the hands-on labs offered by this course give a Network Engineer experience in both practical and theoretical aspects of networking.
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of a network infrastructure, including troubleshooting issues and implementing configurations. This course on OSPF is highly relevant as administrators must have a strong understanding of routing protocols. A Network Administrator will utilize the knowledge and practical skills learned by taking this course to manage and optimize OSPF implementations, especially how OSPF works in real-world environments. Understanding how to analyze OSPF configurations through the 'show' commands and implement multiple area OSPF covered in this course will greatly enhance the Network Administrator's ability to maintain a reliable network.
Technical Trainer
A Technical Trainer educates others on how to use computer hardware and software. This course on OSPF will be a valuable asset when training others on networking, particularly on OSPF concepts. A Technical Trainer needs thorough comprehension of OSPF to explain the configuration, terminology, and implementations to their students. This course, with its hands-on labs, interactive lectures, and detailed explanations, can be used directly by the Technical Trainer to form the foundation of their courses. This makes the Technical Trainer better equipped to convey essential OSPF concepts effectively.
Network Architect
A Network Architect designs and plans complex network infrastructures, ensuring they meet an organization's needs for performance, scalability, and security. As OSPF is a critical routing protocol used in large networks, this course is an excellent choice for aspiring Network Architects. A Network Architect benefits from the course by mastering OSPF's inner workings, which enables the design of robust and efficient networks. The course's focus on multiple-area OSPF and OSPFV3 is particularly beneficial to a Network Architect since this demonstrates how to analyze different networking components. This course will definitely help solidify the foundation of knowledge for a Network Architect.
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator maintains the operational readiness of an organization's computer systems and networks, often working with routing protocols like OSPF. This course on OSPF provides the deep understanding needed to manage network devices, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and implement routing configurations. A Systems Administrator will find the detailed explanations of OSPF's inner workings, including terminology, SPF tree calculations, configurations, and verification methods covered in this course incredibly helpful. Taking this course with its hands-on labs, will ensure that the Systems Administrator is prepared for a wide array of practical networking scenarios.
Telecommunications Specialist
A Telecommunications Specialist installs, maintains, and supports telecommunication systems, which may include network infrastructure. This course on OSPF and its detailed coverage of routing protocols is valuable. A Telecommunications Specialist who has taken this course, can design, set up, and maintain network routing effectively using OSPF. The course's practical labs, analysis, and configurations will be helpful in the Telecommunications Specialist's duties. They will better understand the different ways a network can be set up using OSPF.
Network Consultant
A Network Consultant advises clients on network design, implementation, and problem solving. This course on OSPF will help the consultant thoroughly grasp the concepts of the protocol, so that sound advice can be given. A Network Consultant will find this course helpful as a refresher as well as to learn new techniques. The consultant can use the information gained from this course to make decisions on how best to set up a network. This course can help the networking consultant when making specific recommendations concerning OSPF.
IT Support Specialist
An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to users, often handling network connectivity and performance issues, requiring some knowledge of routing protocols. This course on OSPF provides a valuable introduction to the inner workings of a key routing protocol. An IT Support Specialist who has taken this course can better diagnose and troubleshoot network issues by understanding how OSPF works, including its terminology, configuration, and implementation. This course, especially with its hands-on labs, can help the IT Support Specialist, quickly identify routing-related problems and apply correct solutions. This knowledge of OSPF makes them a more valuable asset to their teams.
Data Center Technician
A Data Center Technician maintains and manages physical infrastructure of data centers, including networking equipment. A Data Center Technician working with networking devices would benefit from this course on OSPF. This course's coverage of OSPF configurations, from point-to-point networks to multiple-area setups, provides essential knowledge for a Data Center Technician working in a real-world environment. The hands-on labs offered by the course help a Data Center Technician when dealing with the networking aspects of data centers. The Technician will be able to perform their job more efficiently and with a better understanding of network routing.
Cloud Engineer
A Cloud Engineer designs, implements, and manages cloud-based systems and networks. A Cloud Engineer might benefit from this course because OSPF may be used to route traffic within cloud networks. A Cloud Engineer will find useful the concepts covered on configuring, implementing, and scaling OSPF. An understanding of OSPF, as provided by this course, can help a Cloud Engineer implement efficient routing in cloud environments. The practical experience gained with the hands-on labs in this course will further aid the Cloud Engineer with the planning and deployment of cloud networks.
Network Security Engineer
A Network Security Engineer designs and implements security measures to protect computer networks. This course may be useful as general knowledge of network protocols, including OSPF, can enhance their understanding of network traffic and potential security issues. A Network Security Engineer who has taken this course can better understand how OSPF functions, especially in relation to creating and managing network segments. This can be useful when implementing security measures and analyzing network traffic patterns. The Network Security Engineer can use the knowledge from this course to create a more secure network.
Solutions Architect
A Solutions Architect designs and oversees the implementation of technology solutions to meet business needs. This role may use OSPF for network routing, especially in complex, integrated systems. This course may be useful for a Solutions Architect to learn the inner workings of OSPF, especially since they need a holistic understanding of the systems they are designing. The knowledge gained from the course will equip a Solutions Architect to make decisions and to make changes that help with overall business strategy. This course will give the Solutions Architect a strong foundation in network routing.
IT Project Manager
An IT Project Manager plans, organizes, and oversees IT projects. This role may benefit from a general understanding of IT fundamentals, including networking. Although not a technical role, IT Project Managers can use this course to help better understand projects that involve OSPF routing protocols. An IT Project Manager with OSPF knowledge will be better able to communicate with their teams, plan the project, and more accurately assess the necessary resources for their projects. The IT Project Manager can use the knowledge from this course to oversee network projects.
Cybersecurity Analyst
A Cybersecurity Analyst monitors and protects an organization's computer networks and systems from cyber threats. While not primarily focused on routing, a general understanding of network protocols like OSPF can be useful. This course on OSPF may help a Cybersecurity Analyst understand how network traffic is routed and to identify potential vulnerabilities or anomalies in network communications. This course can be helpful because network visibility is important for cybersecurity, and a Cybersecuirty Analyst can use the skills gained in this course to better monitor network traffic and identify unusual routing behaviors.
IT Manager
An IT Manager oversees the planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s information technology systems. Although not a technical role, understanding networking concepts and protocols like OSPF is valuable. This course may help an IT Manager gain a deeper understanding of how the network functions, especially when dealing with routing. The course's explanations of OSPF terminology, configuration, and troubleshooting can give an IT Manager a clearer perspective when making technical decisions. An IT Manager who has taken this course will be better equipped to converse knowledgeably with technical staff.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cisco OSPF Breakdown!.
Is the definitive guide to OSPF, written by one of the protocol's original designers. It provides an in-depth look at the protocol's architecture, operation, and configuration. While it can be dense, it serves as an excellent reference for understanding the nuances of OSPF. It is commonly used by network engineers and those pursuing advanced networking certifications.
Is the official certification guide for the CCNA 200-301 exam. It provides a comprehensive overview of networking concepts, including OSPF. It useful reference for understanding the fundamentals of networking and preparing for the CCNA exam. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser