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Layer 2 Switching & VLAN's for Cisco CCNA

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Based on 329 ratings
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Lazaro (Laz) Diaz

This course is several hours in length and will cover Layer 2 switching in detail. I will explain the Technology and media access control method for Ethernet networks, network segmentation, switching concepts and the operation of Cisco switches.

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.

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This course is several hours in length and will cover Layer 2 switching in detail. I will explain the Technology and media access control method for Ethernet networks, network segmentation, switching concepts and the operation of Cisco switches.

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 switching and how we would implement it in a real world environment.

We will discuss the following concepts switching services and rules we should follow when segmenting networks. We will also compare bridging vs. LAN switching focusing in great detail on the Spanning-tree protocol. We will look at the switch Functions at layer two, such as how a switch learns about the nodes on the network and how it makes its decisions to forward the information and most definitely how to secure our ports on the switches.

Once get an understanding of how switches work and their administrative configurations we will then go into explain and creating vlans and inter-vlan connectivity and what would be the benefits of using VLANs on our network. You will learn the different port types and encapsulation methods we use when using vlans, and will fully understand the difference between trunking a port and the VTP protocol.

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 layer 2 switching and vlans 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.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Once you finish my course, you will have a strong grasp on the switching concepts and the methods to use in different networking environments.
  • Mastering this knowledge will make the student, networking and/or it professional a much more valuable asset in any it environment.
  • Students will be able to configure the cisco switch with all its administrative tasks, stp, rstp, vtp and switch port security
  • You will learn how to improve the performance of the switches by turning off services on certain ports so information can start transmitting much quicker.
  • This course will prepare the student for any networking certification such as n+, ccna, mcse to include any computer science degree.

Syllabus

THIS IS WHAT YOU WILL NOW WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR DONE WITH THIS COURSE.

THIS IS WHAT YOU WILL NOW WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE DONE WITH THIS COURSE.

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This Lesson is an overview of the subjects that you will be learning in this course.

In this lesson I will demonstrate using the Packet Tracer how exactly, a switch learns MAC addresses from the nodes that are connected to it.

This lesson will explain how having redundant switch connections you could have loops at layer 2 and the protocol that will help you prevent those loops.

This lesson will show you how to configure security on individual or a range of ports, to only allow a certain number of mac address on those ports.

This lesson will demonstrate some of the basic configurations that you would configure on a switch.

This lesson will demonstrate some of the advanced configurations that you would configure on a switch.

In this lesson you will learn various commands, that you could use to verify your configurations on your Cisco Catalyst Switches.

In this lesson you will learn to back up not only your configuration but your IOS as well to a TFTP server.

This lesson will explain to you how the Spanning-Tree Protocol works, specifically when its deciding which switch will be the root bridge and wich switch will have a blocked port to prevent the BPDU's from fowarding out a specific port.

In this lesson you will briefly learn that there are different types of STP that you could configure on your Cisco Catalyst Switch.

This lesson will explain how you can have Per-Vlan Spanning-Tree, depending on the STP version you use.

In this lesson you will learn how to turn off STP, using the portfast command. This will allow the port to quickly turn to a designated fowarding state.

In this lesson you will learn how to guard your ports from someone accidentally connecting an internetworking device to them. Since, you turned of STP we must implement a command that would prevent BPDU from propogating out of unwanted ports.

This is a very brief lesson on how to verify that STP is configured according to your needs and how to use the CDP command aswell.

In this lesson, I will explain how creating vlans, will deacrease the amount broadcast within a broadcast domain.

In this lesson, I will explain how creating vlans enchances your security, since the router is the one that determines the path the packet will take.

In this lesson I will explain to you, how vlans can help you make your network more flexible and scalable to work with.

In this lesson I will explain the importance of switchport modes and how to configure them.

In this lesson I will explain how the switch knows where to send each vlan to there correct destination.

In this lesson you I will explain the two methods used for Vlan Identification.

In this lesson I will explain the need to still have routers in our network.

In this lesson I will show you how easy it is to create a vlan.

In this lesson I will show you how to assign a vlan to a range of ports.

In this lesson you will finish of from the previous lab in assinging the vlans, configuring port security and so forth. We then are going discuss the trunking of ports and why they are needed.

In this lesson I will show you how to change your Native Vlan from Vlan 1 to some other number and assign the ports to that vlan. I will also discuss the importance of keeping the Native Vlan name consistent accross your switch network.

In this lesson you will learn how to configure inter-vlan communication, using sub-interfaces and the correct encapsulation.

In this lesson I will explain what VTP is, what it is used for and how to status VTP.

This lesson is simply an overview of everything we covered, stressing to you what points to focus on when you study for the CCNA.

This is a simple quiz on layer 2 switching to assess your understanding of topics covered

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers Layer 2 switching and VLANs, which are fundamental concepts for network administration and are essential for the Cisco CCNA certification
Includes hands-on labs using Cisco Packet Tracer, which allows learners to practice configuring Cisco switches in a simulated environment
Explores Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and its variants, which are crucial for preventing network loops in redundant network topologies
Discusses switch port security, which is an important aspect of network security and is often covered in networking certifications
Requires students to independently obtain Cisco Packet Tracer or VIRAL, which may present a barrier to entry for some learners
Teaches how to configure older Catalyst switches, which may not be relevant for learners working with modern network equipment

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Reviews summary

Layer 2 switching for ccna prep

According to learners, this course provides a positive and practical foundation in Layer 2 switching and VLANs, essential for Cisco CCNA preparation and real-world application. Many found the instructor's explanations clear and the hands-on labs useful for solidifying concepts, though requiring separate Packet Tracer access is noted as a neutral prerequisite. Reviewers appreciate the focus on core switching topics and how the course helps build skills for IT professionals. While generally well-received, some recent reviews mention that aspects might need updating for the latest CCNA exam or suggest the pace might be challenging for absolute beginners.
Pace might be fast for absolute beginners.
"While clear, the course moves quite quickly through some topics; beginners might need to pause and re-watch."
"Having some prior networking basics helps, as the course jumps into specifics fairly fast."
"It assumes a foundational understanding of basic network concepts."
"The instructor covers a lot in each session; it's dense material."
Simulators needed, but not provided with course.
"Be aware that you need to have Cisco Packet Tracer installed beforehand, which isn't part of the course itself."
"It's necessary to obtain your own Packet Tracer or VIRAL access to follow along with the labs."
"The course relies heavily on the simulator, so plan ahead to get it working."
"Having my own Packet Tracer was essential to get the most out of the hands-on sections."
Hands-on labs reinforce concepts effectively.
"The labs using Packet Tracer were extremely helpful for applying what was taught in the lectures."
"Working through the configurations in the labs made the theory stick better."
"I appreciate the practical exercises; they are crucial for CCNA preparation."
"Labs were relevant and allowed me to practice the commands demonstrated."
Helps prepare for CCNA and professional work.
"This course gave me a solid understanding of Layer 2 switching needed for the CCNA."
"Excellent resource for anyone studying for networking certifications or needing practical IT skills."
"I feel much more confident handling switches in my work environment after taking this."
"The content is directly applicable to real-world network administration tasks."
Instructor explains concepts clearly and simply.
"The instructor explained the topics in a way that was very easy to understand, breaking down complex concepts simply."
"I found the explanations of STP and VLANs particularly clear and easy to follow."
"His teaching style makes difficult subjects approachable. Great job clarifying Layer 2 principles."
"The clarity of the lectures really helped me grasp the fundamentals quickly."
Some content may need updating for current exams.
"While the core concepts are timeless, some specifics might be slightly dated for the very latest CCNA syllabus."
"Could benefit from updates to align perfectly with current certification requirements."
"The fundamental knowledge is there, but check recent exam changes for any delta."

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 Layer 2 Switching & VLAN's for Cisco CCNA with these activities:
Review Basic Networking Concepts
Reinforce foundational networking knowledge to better understand the concepts of Layer 2 switching and VLANs.
Browse courses on OSI Model
Show steps
  • Review the OSI and TCP/IP models.
  • Practice subnetting exercises.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic routing principles.
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1
Supplement the course material with the official CCNA certification guide for a more in-depth understanding of the topics.
View CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2 on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to Layer 2 switching and VLANs.
  • Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the key concepts and terms.
Packet Tracer VLAN Configuration Exercises
Solidify understanding of VLAN configuration through hands-on practice using Cisco Packet Tracer.
Show steps
  • Create VLANs and assign ports.
  • Configure trunking between switches.
  • Implement inter-VLAN routing.
  • Test connectivity between VLANs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow Cisco's VLAN Configuration Guides
Deepen understanding of VLAN configuration by following official Cisco documentation and tutorials.
Show steps
  • Find official Cisco documentation on VLANs.
  • Follow a step-by-step VLAN configuration guide.
  • Adapt the guide to your own Packet Tracer lab.
Create a VLAN Troubleshooting Guide
Solidify understanding of VLANs by creating a guide that helps others troubleshoot common VLAN-related issues.
Show steps
  • Research common VLAN troubleshooting scenarios.
  • Document the symptoms, causes, and solutions.
  • Organize the information into a clear and concise guide.
  • Share the guide with other students for feedback.
Design a Network with VLANs for a Small Business
Apply knowledge of VLANs to design a network for a real-world scenario, reinforcing understanding and problem-solving skills.
Show steps
  • Define the network requirements for the business.
  • Design the VLAN structure to meet those needs.
  • Document the network design and configuration.
  • Simulate the network in Packet Tracer.
Network Warrior
Gain a practical perspective on network administration and troubleshooting with real-world examples.
View Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the sections related to switching and VLANs.
  • Consider how the concepts apply to real-world scenarios.
  • Reflect on the troubleshooting tips and techniques.

Career center

Learners who complete Layer 2 Switching & VLAN's for Cisco CCNA will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Engineer
A Network Engineer designs, implements, and manages the complex network systems that form the backbone of modern information technology. A strong understanding of switching and VLANs is essential for this role. This course provides practical knowledge of Cisco switching technologies, including detailed coverage of Spanning Tree Protocol, VLAN configuration, and inter-VLAN routing. The course will be particularly useful, as it covers switch port security and how a switch learns about the nodes on the network. Learning the skills taught in this course builds a foundation for individuals pursuing a Network Engineer role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operation of an organization's computer networks, ensuring their stability and performance. This is important for the smooth functioning of the business. This course on Layer 2 Switching and VLANs provides a solid foundation in the vital networking technologies used in modern infrastructure. Specifically, this course covers the configuration and management of Cisco switches, including Spanning Tree Protocol, VLAN implementation, and port security, all of which are crucial for a Network Administrator. It also covers switch functions at layer two, which is core knowledge for this role. Anyone wishing to become a Network Administrator would benefit greatly from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Network Technician
A Network Technician installs, maintains, and repairs network infrastructure. They require a hands-on understanding of Layer 2 switching and VLANs. This course explains how switches learn about the nodes on the network and how they forward information, as well as how to secure ports on the switches. The course’s focus on practical skills, such as VLAN configuration and switch port security, makes it very useful for those wishing to become Network Technicians. The skills taught in this course are highly relevant to the duties of this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Technician
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator maintains the computer systems and networks of an organization, ensuring they meet the needs of the users. This position greatly benefits from knowledge of networking. This course offers an in-depth understanding of Layer 2 switching, VLANs, and Cisco configurations, making it a great addition to the skill set of any Systems Administrator. It will particularly be helpful to learn about how to configure security on individual or a range of ports. These skills described in the course can help a Systems Administrator in their day-to-day duties.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
Network Architect
A Network Architect designs and plans complex network systems for large organizations. They must have an in-depth understanding of networking technologies such as Layer 2 switching. This course covers switching concepts and the methods to use in different networking environments so is useful to prospective Network Architects. It will be particularly useful to learn about Spanning Tree Protocol and VLANs. Knowledge of switch functions at layer two is important for this role. The course's subject matter builds a foundation for those who wish to become Network Architects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect
Data Center Technician
A Data Center Technician manages the infrastructure of a data center, which includes network devices. A strong understanding of Layer 2 switching and VLANs is beneficial. This course provides a good understanding of switching concepts and the methods used to improve network performance. The course’s detailed explanation of spanning-tree protocol, and VLAN configuration, will help any Data Center Technician better perform their duties. Those wishing to become Data Center technicians should find this course helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Center Technician
IT Support Specialist
An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to users within an organization. A solid grasp of networking concepts is beneficial in this role. This course can help IT Support Specialists gain the necessary knowledge of Layer 2 switching and VLANs, which would enable them to troubleshoot network issues and efficiently assist users. The course provides valuable insights into switch operation, administrative configuration, and VLAN implementation. Learning the material in this course can be useful for anyone in IT support.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist
Telecommunications Specialist
A Telecommunications Specialist sets up and maintains communication systems and networks. A strong understanding of Layer 2 switching and VLANs is useful in this role. This course provides details on network segmentation and switching concepts, as well as administrative configurations of Cisco switches. This course’s practical lessons on implementing VLANs and switch security could be advantageous for telecommunications specialists. Anyone who wishes to enter this field may find the information in the course particularly useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Telecommunications Specialist
Voice over IP Engineer
A Voice over IP Engineer designs, implements, and maintains VoIP systems. A solid background in networking is a necessity for this role. This course provides essential knowledge of Layer 2 switching, VLAN implementation, and network segmentation. This background will help a Voice over IP engineer understand how to implement and troubleshoot VoIP solutions. The concepts discussed in the course may be especially beneficial to those who wish to become a Voice over IP Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Voice over IP Engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's network and databases from threats. Understanding networking fundamentals is crucial to identifying and mitigating security risks. This course offers insights into securing switch ports and segmenting networks using VLANs, which are important for a Cyber Security Analyst. The course's coverage of switch functions and administrative configurations will also help in recognizing and responding to network anomalies. A Cybersecurity Analyst may find the information in this course advantageous.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Technical Trainer
A Technical Trainer develops and delivers training programs on various technology topics. A thorough understanding of networking concepts, such as those covered in this course, is important. This course on Layer 2 switching and VLANs offers a structured approach to learning these topics, which is beneficial when teaching others. The course’s detailed explanations on Cisco switch configurations, Spanning Tree Protocol, and VLAN routing, make it ideal for trainers. Learning the material in this course may be advantageous for anyone wishing to pursue a role as a technical trainer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Trainer
Field Service Technician
A Field Service Technician travels to different sites to install, maintain, and repair equipment, often including network devices. Having a solid grasp of networking concepts is useful for this work. This course’s focus on switch operation, configurations, and VLAN implementation will be helpful. This course provides a good general introduction to Layer 2 switching and VLANs. The course’s material may be particularly pertinent to this area of work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Field Service Technician
Cloud Network Engineer
A Cloud Network Engineer designs, implements, and manages network infrastructure in cloud environments. Although cloud networking has its own specific techniques, having a strong background in traditional network concepts, like those taught in this course, is beneficial. Layer 2 switching and VLAN concepts discussed in this course are foundational to understanding cloud networking. This course explains how to configure Cisco switches and implement VLANs and inter-VLAN connectivity. A cloud engineer would find the principles covered in this course may help in understanding and managing cloud networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Network Engineer
IT Consultant
An IT Consultant provides expert advice to organizations on how to use information technology to achieve their business goals. A broad knowledge of networking technologies is useful in this role. Individuals who wish to become IT consultants may find this course helpful for understanding Layer 2 network operations. This course covers switching technology, VLAN implementation, and related security concerns. The course may help expand the knowledge base of a person in an IT consultant role.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant
Information Technology Manager
An Information Technology Manager is responsible for overseeing the IT department of an organization. Though not performing hands-on technical work daily, they must understand network technologies. This course provides a good overview of Layer 2 switching and VLAN technologies. It may be helpful in understanding the work done by their network teams and making informed decisions for the organization. This course’s coverage of security configurations in switches will be useful. Those in IT management and leadership roles should find the knowledge in this course to be useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

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 Layer 2 Switching & VLAN's for Cisco CCNA.
Cover image
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Save
Is the official certification guide for the CCNA 200-301 exam. It provides a comprehensive overview of all the topics covered in the exam, including Layer 2 switching and VLANs. This book valuable resource for students preparing for the CCNA exam and for those who want to deepen their understanding of networking concepts. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Paperback
Check
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Arista Warrior
Save
Network Warrior provides a practical, real-world perspective on network administration and troubleshooting. While not solely focused on CCNA topics, it offers valuable insights into the challenges and solutions encountered in production networks. is more valuable as additional reading to provide a broader context for the course material. It helps students understand how the concepts they are learning apply in real-world scenarios.
Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on EOS
Paperback
$$
Arista Warrior: A Real-World Guide to Understanding...
Paperback
$$
Arista Warrior by Donahue (2012-10-27)
Paperback Bunko
$$$$
Arista Warrior: Arista Products with a Focus on EOS
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
6 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Lazaro (Laz) Diaz
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers Layer 2 switching and VLANs, which are fundamental concepts for network administration and are essential for the Cisco CCNA certification
Includes hands-on labs using Cisco Packet Tracer, which allows learners to practice configuring Cisco switches in a simulated environment
Explores Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and its variants, which are crucial for preventing network loops in redundant network topologies
Discusses switch port security, which is an important aspect of network security and is often covered in networking certifications
Requires students to independently obtain Cisco Packet Tracer or VIRAL, which may present a barrier to entry for some learners
Teaches how to configure older Catalyst switches, which may not be relevant for learners working with modern network equipment
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