Configuring a Cisco Router from Pluralsight

In order to earn the CCNA, you'll need to know how to configure a Cisco router. In this course, you will learn about the router boot up process, the files that the router uses to operate, as well as see a router configuration demo.

Configuring a Cisco router is more than just entering commands. In order to properly understand what the configuration steps do, you need to have a basic understanding of the components of a router, including processor, memory, and input/outputs. In this course, Configuring a Cisco Router , you will learn different types of memory and the files stored in them, the order in which the files are loaded, as well as the function of each file. First, you will walk though, step by step, the commands and their function to properly configure the basic features of the device. This includes setting a router name, securing user and privileged modes, enabling encrypted remote support via SSH, and applying IP addresses to interfaces so the router can pass traffic. Next, you will see a demonstration about configuring the router in a long form, and then redo the same configuration using tips, tricks, and shortcuts to speed up the process. Common errors, including errors made during the configuration, will be pointed out and discussed. Finally, you will wrap up the course by examining Internetworking Operating System (IOS) file names, demonstrating how to upgrade IOS, as well as how to access router configuration when you don't know the password. By the end of this course, you'll understand the commands required to bring a router online, allowing it to pass traffic from one interface to another, which will help you on your path to earning the CCNA.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Cisco Router Basics

Cisco Router Files and Licensing

Router Configuration

Router Configuration with Shortcuts and IPv6

Upgrading IOS

Check Your Knowledge

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores core Cisco components, such as processor, memory, and input/outputs

Provides a comprehensive study of the router boot up process and files used for operation

Gives learners an edge in understanding network configurations by empowering them with commands to bring a router online

Develops core router configuration skills and industry best practices

Examines common configuration errors and discusses how to address them

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 Configuring a Cisco Router with these activities:

Attend a Cisco Networking Academy event

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Connect with industry professionals and learn about the latest advancements in Cisco networking technologies at a Cisco Networking Academy event.

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Find and register for an upcoming Cisco Networking Academy event in your area.
Attend the event and participate in workshops and presentations.
Network with industry professionals and learn about their experiences.

Review networking fundamentals

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Solidify your understanding of basic networking concepts to prepare for the course material.

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Review the OSI model and TCP/IP stack.
Practice subnetting and IP address manipulation.
Configure basic network settings on a router or switch.

Compile a resource guide for Cisco router configuration

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Organize and expand your knowledge of Cisco router configuration by creating a comprehensive resource guide that includes tutorials, documentation, and other valuable materials.

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Gather resources from online sources, textbooks, and your own notes.
Organize the resources into a logical structure, such as by topic or configuration type.
Create a format that is easy to navigate and reference.

Three other activities

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Follow online tutorials on Cisco router configuration

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Supplement your learning by exploring online tutorials that provide hands-on practice in configuring Cisco routers.

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Search for tutorials on configuring basic router features, such as setting a hostname and IP addresses.
Follow the instructions in the tutorials to configure a router using Cisco IOS commands.
Experiment with different configuration options to gain a deeper understanding.

Practice configuring routers in a virtual environment

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Reinforce your understanding of router configuration by practicing in a virtual environment where you can experiment without real-world consequences.

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Download and install a virtual network simulator, such as Packet Tracer or GNS3.
Create a virtual network topology with routers and other devices.
Practice configuring the routers to perform specific tasks, such as routing traffic or implementing security measures.

Contribute to open-source networking projects

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Enhance your understanding of networking technologies and gain practical experience by contributing to open-source networking projects.

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Find open-source networking projects that align with your interests.
Identify areas where you can contribute, such as bug reporting, code development, or documentation improvements.
Submit your contributions to the project repository and engage with the community.

Career center

Learners who complete Configuring a Cisco Router will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. They ensure that networks are secure and reliable, and they troubleshoot and resolve any problems that arise. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Network Administrator by teaching you the basics of router configuration. You will learn how to set up a router, configure its settings, and troubleshoot common problems. This knowledge will be essential for success in this role.

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Network Engineer

Network Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks. They ensure that networks run smoothly and efficiently, and they troubleshoot and resolve any problems that arise. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Network Engineer by teaching you the basics of router configuration. You will learn how to set up a router, configure its settings, and troubleshoot common problems. This knowledge will be essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing, designing, and implementing computer systems. They work with clients to determine their needs and then design and implement systems that meet those needs. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Computer Systems Analyst by teaching you the basics of router configuration. You will learn how to set up a router, configure its settings, and troubleshoot common problems. This knowledge will be helpful in designing and implementing computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They develop and implement security policies and procedures, and they monitor and investigate security breaches. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Information Security Analyst by teaching you the basics of router configuration. You will learn how to set up a router, configure its security settings, and troubleshoot common problems. This knowledge will be essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

IT Manager

IT Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing information technology systems. They work with senior management to determine the IT needs of the organization and then develop and implement plans to meet those needs. This course can help you prepare for a career as an IT Manager by teaching you the basics of router configuration. You will learn how to set up a router, configure its settings, and troubleshoot common problems. This knowledge will be helpful in managing and maintaining IT systems.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to identify trends and patterns. They use this information to make recommendations and decisions that can improve business outcomes. This course may be helpful for Data Analysts who need to understand how routers work in order to collect and analyze data from network devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They ensure that databases are secure, reliable, and performant. This course may be helpful for Database Administrators who need to understand how routers work in order to configure database servers and ensure that they can communicate with each other.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They work with clients to determine their needs and then design and develop software that meets those needs. This course may be helpful for Software Engineers who need to understand how routers work in order to develop software that can communicate over networks.

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Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for designing and developing websites. They work with clients to determine their needs and then design and develop websites that meet those needs. This course may be helpful for Web Developers who need to understand how routers work in order to develop websites that can be accessed over the internet.

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Help Desk Technician

Help Desk Technicians are responsible for providing technical support to users. They answer questions, troubleshoot problems, and resolve issues. This course may be helpful for Help Desk Technicians who need to understand how routers work in order to troubleshoot network problems.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers are responsible for creating documentation for technical products and services. They work with subject matter experts to gather information and then write documentation that is clear, concise, and accurate. This course may be helpful for Technical Writers who need to understand how routers work in order to write documentation for network devices.

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Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals and objectives, and then develop and implement plans to achieve those goals. This course may be helpful for Project Managers who need to understand how routers work in order to plan and execute projects that involve network infrastructure.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing business processes and identifying opportunities for improvement. They work with stakeholders to gather information and then develop recommendations that can improve business outcomes. This course may be helpful for Business Analysts who need to understand how routers work in order to analyze network traffic and identify opportunities for improvement.

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Sales Engineer

Sales Engineers are responsible for selling technical products and services. They work with customers to understand their needs and then develop and implement solutions that meet those needs. This course may be helpful for Sales Engineers who need to understand how routers work in order to sell network devices and services.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for planning and executing marketing campaigns. They work with stakeholders to define marketing goals and objectives, and then develop and implement plans to achieve those goals. This course may be helpful for Marketing Managers who need to understand how routers work in order to plan and execute marketing campaigns that involve network infrastructure.

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