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Cisco Enterprise Networks

VLANs and Trunking

Ben Piper

In this course, you'll learn VLAN types, private VLANs, automatic and manual trunking, DTP, VTP, and SDM templates.

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In this course, you'll learn VLAN types, private VLANs, automatic and manual trunking, DTP, VTP, and SDM templates.

VLANs and trunks are the foundation of switched Ethernet networks. In this course, Cisco Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking, you’ll learn the fundamental concepts and skills you’ll need to configure and troubleshoot VLANs and VLAN trunks. First, you'll learn about normal and voice VLANs and VLAN security. Next, you'll discover private VLANs and dynamic and unconditional VLAN trunks. Finally, you'll explore the VLAN trunking protocol (VTP). By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid grasp of VLAN and trunking fundamentals, and you’ll be ready to move on to more advanced layer-2 topics such as Spanning Tree and EtherChannels.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Normal and Voice VLANs
Private VLANs
Manual VLAN Trunking
Read more
VLAN Trunking Protocol

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Builds a strong foundation for configuring VLANs and trunks, which are standard in network infrastructure
Develops advanced layer-2 topics such as Spanning Tree and EtherChannels, which are useful for troubleshooting and network optimization
Covers core network concepts that are highly relevant to industry and essential for network engineers
Taught by Ben Piper, who has a strong reputation in the networking industry
Requires learners to come in with networking fundamentals, which may pose a barrier to beginners

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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 Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking with these activities:
Attend Cisco User Group Meeting
Attend local Cisco User Group meetings to connect with industry professionals and learn about the latest VLAN technologies.
Show steps
  • Find a local Cisco User Group.
  • Attend meetings and participate in discussions.
Ethernet and TCP/IP Review
Renovates your foundational understanding of Ethernet and TCP/IP, critical concepts for comprehending VLANs and trunking.
Browse courses on Ethernet
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes or textbooks on Ethernet and TCP/IP fundamentals
  • Practice configuring basic Ethernet and IP networks in a lab environment
Review switched Ethernet networks fundamentals
Reviewing fundamentals will reaffirm your understanding of prerequisites so you can focus on more challenging concepts.
Browse courses on Ethernet
Show steps
  • Recall the theory behind Ethernet networks
  • Enumerate the components of a typical Ethernet network
  • Explain the role of VLANs in segmenting networks
18 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 21 activities
Ethernet Networking Refresher
Review Ethernet networking concepts to strengthen your foundation for VLANs and trunking.
Browse courses on Ethernet
Show steps
  • Review materials on Ethernet networking basics.
  • Practice configuring Ethernet interfaces and protocols.
VLAN and Trunking Notes Compilation
Ensures you have a comprehensive and well-organized collection of resources for quick reference and future learning.
Show steps
  • Create a central repository for all course materials, including lecture notes, lab exercises, and online resources
  • Organize the materials by topic and subtopic
  • Review and update the compilation regularly to ensure its accuracy and completeness
VLAN Study Group
Join a study group to discuss VLANs, share knowledge, and collaborate on troubleshooting.
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group with other students taking the course.
  • Meet regularly to discuss VLAN concepts and configurations.
  • Work together to troubleshoot VLAN issues.
Official Cisco VLAN and Trunking Guides
Provides access to comprehensive and up-to-date resources from Cisco, the leading provider of networking technologies.
Show steps
  • Visit the Cisco website and locate the VLAN and trunking documentation
  • Review the guides and take notes on key concepts and configurations
  • Apply the knowledge gained in your network configurations
VTP Tutorial
Follow a guided tutorial on VTP to enhance your understanding of its configuration and operation.
Show steps
  • Find a reputable VTP tutorial.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
  • Configure VTP on your own lab environment.
VLAN and Trunking Presentation
Offers an opportunity to synthesize your understanding of VLANs and trunking and share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
  • Research and gather information on VLANs and trunking concepts
  • Design and create a PowerPoint presentation or visual aid
  • Present your findings to your peers or colleagues
Cisco Packet Tracer Exercises
Enhances your practical skills by simulating real-world network scenarios and troubleshooting common issues.
Show steps
  • Download and install Cisco Packet Tracer software
  • Complete the VLAN and trunking exercises provided by the instructor or online resources
  • Simulate and troubleshoot various network configurations involving VLANs and trunking
VLAN configuration exercises
Reinforce your understanding of VLANs through repetitive configuration exercises.
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Configure VLANs on a Cisco switch using the command line interface (CLI)
Follow a tutorial on private VLANs
Expand your knowledge of VLANs by learning about private VLANs and their applications.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on private VLANs
  • Follow the steps in the tutorial to configure private VLANs on a Cisco switch
VLAN Trunking Practice
Practice VLAN trunking configurations to improve your understanding and troubleshooting skills.
Show steps
  • Set up a lab environment with multiple switches.
  • Configure VLANs on the switches.
  • Configure VLAN trunking between the switches.
  • Test VLAN connectivity and troubleshooting any issues.
Configure normal and voice VLANs on a Cisco switch
Get hands-on experience with configuring VLANs to prepare you for the practical aspects of the course.
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Access a Cisco switch CLI
  • Create and configure a normal VLAN
  • Repeat step two for a voice VLAN
  • Verify VLAN configuration and operation
VLAN Troubleshooting Drills
Enhances your ability to identify and resolve common VLAN issues, ensuring a stable and efficient network.
Show steps
  • Configure a lab environment with VLANs
  • Simulate VLAN configuration errors and debug issues
  • Use show commands to verify VLAN configuration and troubleshoot problems
Design and implement a small-scale VLAN and trunking network
Build a physical or virtual network to solidify your understanding of VLANs and trunking.
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Plan and design your network topology
  • Configure and implement the VLANs and trunks on your switches
  • Verify the functionality of your network using ping and traceroute
Explore DTP and VTP for VLAN trunking
Supplement your understanding of VLAN trunking by seeking additional resources to reinforce the concepts.
Show steps
  • Identify trusted and untrusted ports
  • Configure DTP on switch ports
  • Explain the purpose and operation of VTP
Discuss VLAN security best practices
Engage with peers to share knowledge and gain different perspectives on VLAN security.
Show steps
  • Identify common VLAN security vulnerabilities
  • Discuss best practices for mitigating these vulnerabilities
  • Share experiences and case studies related to VLAN security
Design a network topology using private VLANs
Apply your knowledge of private VLANs by designing a network topology that incorporates their use.
Show steps
  • Determine the requirements for private VLANs in your network
  • Design a topology that meets those requirements
  • Document your design
Participate in a network configuration competition
Challenge yourself by participating in a competition to showcase your skills and learn from others.
Browse courses on Network Configuration
Show steps
  • Identify a relevant network configuration competition
  • Prepare for the competition by practicing and studying
  • Participate in the competition and give your best effort
Mentor junior network engineers on VLANs and trunking
Enhance your understanding by teaching others, reinforcing your knowledge and identifying areas for improvement.
Browse courses on VLANs
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor junior network engineers
  • Share your knowledge and expertise on VLANs and trunking
  • Provide guidance and support as needed

Career center

Learners who complete Cisco Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points. This course can help Network Engineers build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Network Engineers can design and implement more efficient and secure networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for the maintenance and operation of computer systems. They install and configure software, manage user accounts, and monitor system performance. This course can help Systems Administrators build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Systems Administrators can improve the performance and security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer networks. They ensure that networks are running smoothly and efficiently, and they troubleshoot and resolve any problems that arise. This course can help Network Administrators build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Network Administrators can improve the performance and security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Security Analyst
Security Analysts identify and mitigate security risks to computer networks and systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners. This course can help Security Analysts build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Security Analysts can improve the security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst
Data Center Technician
Data Center Technicians maintain and operate data centers. They install and configure servers, storage devices, and network equipment. This course can help Data Center Technicians build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Data Center Technicians can improve the performance and security of their data centers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Center Technician
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts identify and mitigate security risks to computer networks and systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners. This course may be useful for Information Security Analysts who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Information Security Analysts can improve the security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects design and implement cloud computing solutions. They work with a variety of technologies, including cloud platforms, virtual machines, and containers. This course may be useful for Cloud Architects who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Cloud Architects can design and implement more efficient and secure cloud solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design and implement security measures for computer networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners. This course may be useful for Network Security Engineers who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Network Security Engineers can improve the security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects design and implement computer networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points. This course may be useful for Computer Network Architects who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Computer Network Architects can design and implement more efficient and secure networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Network Architect
IT Manager
IT Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of computer systems and networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including servers, storage devices, and network equipment. This course may be useful for IT Managers who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, IT Managers can improve the performance and security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts identify and mitigate security risks to computer networks and systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners. This course may be useful for Cybersecurity Analysts who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Cybersecurity Analysts can improve the security of their networks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Software Engineers can develop more efficient and secure software applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies. This course may be useful for Web Developers who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Web Developers can develop more efficient and secure websites.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They work with a variety of database technologies. This course may be useful for Database Administrators who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Database Administrators can improve the performance and security of their databases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Business Analyst
Business Analysts gather and analyze business requirements to help organizations improve their operations. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including business users, IT professionals, and executives. This course may be useful for Business Analysts who want to build a foundation in VLANs and trunking, which are essential technologies for managing and securing computer networks. By understanding how VLANs and trunking work, Business Analysts can better understand the technical aspects of business requirements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected seven 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 Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking.
Cover image
Cisco Networking Academy Program
Save
This is the official Cisco Press book for the CCNA certification, and it covers all of the topics that are tested on the exam. It comprehensive and well-written book that is essential reading for anyone who wants to pass the CCNA exam.
Cisco Networking Academy Program
Paperback
Check
Cisco Networking Academy Program
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Save
This textbook provides readers with an in-depth exploration of the fundamentals of computer networking, including VLANs and trunking. Additionally, this book touches on more advanced topics like congestion control and network security.
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Paperback
Check
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
CCNA Routing and Switching Complete Certification...
Save
This official study guide provides readers with the background they'll need in the fundamentals of LAN switching and VLANs. It also provides practice questions to prepare for the ICND2 200-105 exam.
CCNA Routing and Switching Complete Certification...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
CCNP Enterprise Certification Study Guide:...
Save
This study guide is designed to help you prepare for the Cisco Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking exam. It covers all of the topics that are tested on the exam, and it includes practice questions and exercises.
CCNP Enterprise Certification Study Guide:...
Paperback
$$
CCNP Enterprise Certification Study Guide:...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Network Warrior
Save
Would be an excellent addition to this course as it would further develop the foundational knowledge students will need to succeed in network administration. Furthermore, it provides plentiful opportunities to deep dive into troubleshooting.
Network Warrior: Everything You Need to Know That...
Paperback
$$
Network Warrior
Kindle Edition
$$
Network Warrior
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Data Communications and Networking with TCP/IP...
Save
This foundational textbook provides readers with the background they'll need in the fundamentals of data communications and networks, including the topics of VLANs, trunks, and network architectures.
Data Communications and Networking with TCP/IP...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Loose Leaf for Data Communications and Networking...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Network Programmability and Automation Fundamentals
Save
While this book may not be specifically relevant to VLANs and trunking, it is widely considered a foundational text for those working in networking. For students who wish to proceed deeper into networking, this book may be a useful addition.
Network Programmability and Automation Fundamentals...
Paperback
$$$
Network Programmability and Automation Fundamentals...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Time
144 hours
Level
Intermediate
Via
Pluralsight
Instructor
Ben Piper
Language
English
This course belongs to a collection called Cisco ENCOR (350-401) for CCNP Enterprise. It's comprised of seven courses:
  1. Cisco Enterprise Networks: Basic Networking and IP Fundamentals
  2. Cisco Enterprise Networks: Implementing OSPF
  3. Cisco Enterprise Networks: Implementing EIGRP
  4. Cisco Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking (viewing)
  5. Cisco Enterprise Networks: Spanning Tree Protocols and EtherChannels
  6. Cisco Enterprise Networks: Infrastructure Security
  7. Cisco Enterprise Networks: First Hop Redundancy Protocols
Good to know
Builds a strong foundation for configuring VLANs and trunks, which are standard in network infrastructure
Develops advanced layer-2 topics such as Spanning Tree and EtherChannels, which are useful for troubleshooting and network optimization
Covers core network concepts that are highly relevant to industry and essential for network engineers
Taught by Ben Piper, who has a strong reputation in the networking industry
Requires learners to come in with networking fundamentals, which may pose a barrier to beginners
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