Cisco Enterprise Networks: VLANs and Trunking from Pluralsight

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.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Normal and Voice VLANs

Private VLANs

Manual VLAN Trunking

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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

Reviews summary

Mastering vlans and trunking for enterprise networks

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in Cisco enterprise networking, particularly for VLANs and Trunking. Students frequently praise the instructor's clear explanations and deep knowledge, making complex topics digestible. The course's hands-on labs and practical demonstrations are consistently highlighted as a major strength, helping to solidify understanding and provide directly applicable skills. While the material is well-structured and logically presented, some learners with absolutely no prior networking exposure might find the pace occasionally challenging. Overall, it's considered an excellent stepping stone for further Layer 2 switching topics like Spanning Tree and EtherChannels.

Primarily focuses on foundational configuration rather than advanced troubleshooting.

"I wished there were more advanced troubleshooting scenarios included, though it's focused on configuration."

"I found it very much focused on configuration rather than in-depth diagnostics, which is fine for a beginner course."

"The course content is solid, but I learned it sticks to core concepts rather than every edge case."

Builds strong foundational knowledge for advanced network topics.

"This course provided me with a solid foundation in VLANs and trunks, preparing me for advanced Layer 2."

"It’s an excellent stepping stone to more complex subjects like Spanning Tree and EtherChannels, as promised."

"I now have a much better grasp of core switched Ethernet networks thanks to this well-structured course."

Focus on practical labs enhances learning and skill application.

"The practical labs were essential for understanding trunking configurations and applying what I learned."

"I really appreciated the hands-on approach. Configuring VLANs in a simulated environment made it click for me."

"The labs allowed me to directly implement the concepts, which solidified my understanding of the material."

Instructor excels at simplifying complex networking concepts.

"The instructor clearly explained complex VLAN concepts. I found the explanations very easy to follow."

"I found he makes difficult topics like VTP and DTP understandable and breaks them down into manageable chunks."

"I appreciated how the course demystified trunking; the explanations were concise and to the point."

Pace might be challenging for learners with no prior networking experience.

"For someone completely new to networking, I felt this might be a bit fast-paced in some sections."

"I had some prior networking knowledge which definitely helped me keep up with the course."

"While excellent, I'd recommend reviewing basic networking before diving into this if you're a complete novice."

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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

Show steps

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 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

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

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

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

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

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