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Hands on Cisco Labs

Master Course

Dan Mill

Unlock the full potential of Cisco Labs in this hands-on course, Hands-On Cisco Labs: Master Course. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate network professional, this course is designed to immerse you in practical, real-world configurations using a variety of lab technologies.

You can follow along with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML), Packet Tracer

Read more

Unlock the full potential of Cisco Labs in this hands-on course, Hands-On Cisco Labs: Master Course. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate network professional, this course is designed to immerse you in practical, real-world configurations using a variety of lab technologies.

You can follow along with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML), Packet Tracer

This course is all about practical, hands-on labs with a strong focus on mastering Cisco configurations. We’ll cut down on theory and dive right into the technical configurations that matter most in real-world scenarios. You’ll gain experience configuring Routing, Switching and Quality of Service, plus lots more.

All of this through guided labs that replicate actual network setups. Whether you're preparing for industry certifications like

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to confidently configure and manage Cisco devices in real-world environments. With a series of lab-heavy exercises and practical examples, you’ll gain the hands-on knowledge that’s critical to succeed in networking. Join me, a seasoned network expert, and take your Cisco configuration skills to the next level as we work through advanced lab setups and real-world applications.

This course is perfect for those looking to get practical experience without the heavy theory—it's all about learning by doing.

This course will be frequently updated with new labs, configurations, and practical exercises to ensure you're always learning the most up-to-date Cisco technologies and techniques. Be sure to check back regularly for the latest content and enhancements.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to configure ospf in single and multi-area environments.
  • The fundamental concepts of internal and external bgp (ibgp and ebgp).
  • How to establish ebgp peering between different autonomous systems.
  • Configuring and verifying ibgp for internal network routing.
  • Best practices for configuring eigrp in cisco networks.
  • How to configure hsrp for gateway redundancy in routed networks.
  • The fundamentals of vrrp and how to implement it for redundancy.
  • Implementing glbp for load balancing and redundancy in cisco networks.
  • How to use cisco routers for dhcp services and configure dhcp relay.
  • Importance of static and default routes.
  • The key differences between vlans, trunking, and access ports in a network environment.
  • How to implement and troubleshoot spanning tree protocol (stp) and rapid stp.
  • How to create, configure, and manage vlans for effective network segmentation.
  • Best practices for configuring etherchannel for link aggregation and redundancy.
  • The fundamentals of port security and how to apply it on cisco switches.
  • How to prevent network loops using various loop prevention mechanisms.
  • How to configure 802.1x for network access control and security.
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction
What is Cisco Modeling Labs?
Installing Cisco Modeling Labs
What is Cisco Packet Tracer?
Read more
Why Learn Cisco?
Cisco Modeling Labs Introduction and Basics
Initial Lab Setup
Add Static IP to Desktop/Server Device
Desktop VNC and Console
Monitor Resource Usage
Delete Devices
Delete Labs
Cisco CML Reference Platforms
CML Tools
Network Essentials
What is Networking and Why is it Important?
Understanding Networks (LAN, WAN, and MAN)
Overview of IP Addressing (IPv4 Basics)
Subnetting
Introduction to OSI and TCP/IP Models
Layers of the OSI Model – Simplified
How the TCP/IP Model Works
Introduction to Networking Protocols
Overview of TCP vs UDP
Understanding Bandwidth and Throughput
Switching Fundamentals
Set NTP Client Configuration
Setup SNMPv2 to Monitoring Server
Set a VLAN IP Address
Enable Console Passwords + Encrypt Local Passwords
Save Configuration Best Practices
AAA Switch Setup (TACACS+)
SNMP Configuration - Cisco Switch with PRTG
Switching Architecture
Common Switching Architecture Fundamentals
Understanding Switch Stacking in Cisco
Switching VLANs and Trunking
Access VLAN Fundamentals
Trunk VLANs and Native VLANs in Cisco Switches
Voice VLAN Fundamentals
VLAN Real World Example
Switching Spanning Tree
PVST and Rapid Spanning Tree (RPST) Configuration
Spanning Tree Loop Prevention Mechanisms
Multiple Spanning Tree (MST) Configuration
Switching Etherchannels (Link Aggregation / Port Channels)
Layer 2 Etherchannel Configuration
Layer 3 Etherchannel Configuration
Switching Security
Port Security Configuration
802.1X Configuration
DHCP Snooping Configuration
DHCP Snooping
ARP Poisoning
Routing Fundamentals
Static Routing
Default Routing
Network Address Translation (NAT)
Port Address Translation (PAT)
Cisco Router Port Forwarding
Security Considerations with Port Forwarding on Cisco Routers
Router Redundancy Protocols
Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP)
Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP)
Gateway Load Balancing Protocol (GLBP)
Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP)
EIGRP Lab
Modifying EIGRP Metrics
EIGRP Authentication
Using Loopback Interfaces in Dynamic Routing Labs
EIGRP Summarization
EIGRP Static Neighbors
Modify EIGRP Hello and Hold Timers
EIGRP Variance
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Single Area OSPF
Multi Area OSPF
OSPF Security
How to influence OSPF DR/BDR Elections
OSPF Hello and Dead Timers
OSPF Stub Areas: A Beginner's Handbook
OSPF Stub Area Configurations
OSPF NSSA Stub Area Configurations
OSPF Reconvergence
Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
Internal Border Gateway Protocol (iBGP)
External Border Gateway Protocol (eBGP)
Using Null0 Routes to Block Traffic
How to Refresh IP BGP Routing Tables
How to obtain BGP ASN Numbers
EIGRP vs OSPF vs iBGP | In Modern Routing
BGP Path Control Methods
Controlling Routes
Prefix-List Demonstration
Route Maps
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol Configuration (DHCP)
Cisco Router - DHCP Server Configuration
Verifying the DHCP Configuration
Cisco Router - DHCP Relay Configuration

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Offers hands-on experience with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) and Packet Tracer, which are commonly used in network simulation and testing environments
Covers routing protocols like OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP, which are essential for managing complex network infrastructures and ensuring efficient data delivery
Explores switch security configurations, including port security and 802.1X, which are crucial for protecting networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats
Includes topics like HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP, which are vital for implementing network redundancy and ensuring high availability in critical systems
Requires learners to install Cisco Modeling Labs, which may require specific system resources and configurations that not all learners may readily possess
Teaches SNMPv2, which is an older version of the Simple Network Management Protocol, while newer versions like SNMPv3 offer enhanced security features

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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 Hands on Cisco Labs: Master Course with these activities:
Review Subnetting Fundamentals
Reinforce your understanding of subnetting, a crucial skill for configuring IP addresses in Cisco networks.
Browse courses on Subnetting
Show steps
  • Review subnetting concepts and calculations.
  • Practice subnetting exercises with varying subnet masks.
  • Solve practice problems involving subnetting.
Review 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1'
Supplement your learning with a comprehensive guide to Cisco networking concepts and configurations.
View CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2 on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to routing and switching.
  • Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the key concepts and definitions.
Configure OSPF in a Virtual Lab
Solidify your understanding of OSPF by configuring it in a virtual lab environment using Cisco Modeling Labs or Packet Tracer.
Show steps
  • Set up a virtual network topology with multiple routers.
  • Configure OSPF in single and multi-area environments.
  • Verify OSPF neighbor relationships and routing tables.
  • Troubleshoot OSPF configuration issues.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a BGP Configuration Guide
Deepen your understanding of BGP by creating a comprehensive configuration guide with examples and best practices.
Show steps
  • Research BGP configuration options and best practices.
  • Write a step-by-step guide for configuring iBGP and eBGP.
  • Include configuration examples and troubleshooting tips.
  • Share your guide with other students for feedback.
Design a Redundant Network Topology
Apply your knowledge of HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP to design a redundant network topology for a real-world scenario.
Show steps
  • Define the requirements for a redundant network.
  • Design a network topology using HSRP, VRRP, or GLBP.
  • Configure the devices in a virtual lab environment.
  • Test the redundancy mechanisms and document the results.
Read 'Troubleshooting Cisco IP Networks'
Enhance your troubleshooting skills by studying a dedicated guide on Cisco IP network issues.
View Troubleshooting IP Routing Protocols (CCIE... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to routing and switching troubleshooting.
  • Review the troubleshooting scenarios and solutions.
  • Apply the troubleshooting techniques in a virtual lab.
Document a Network Security Implementation
Create a detailed document outlining the implementation of network security measures, including port security and 802.1X.
Show steps
  • Research port security and 802.1X configuration options.
  • Implement port security and 802.1X in a virtual lab.
  • Document the configuration steps and security policies.
  • Test the security implementation and document the results.

Career center

Learners who complete Hands on Cisco Labs: Master Course will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Engineer
Network engineers design, implement, and manage computer networks. This role requires a deep understanding of networking protocols and technologies; this course helps with exactly that. The course gives substantial hands-on experience with Cisco devices, making it valuable for aspiring network engineers. The content of this course, including routing protocols such as OSPF, BGP, and EIGRP, also supports skills necessary to design, configure, and optimize network performance. Configuration and management skills are critical for network engineers, and this course helps build those skills directly.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Network Technician
A network technician installs, maintains, and repairs network equipment. This role greatly benefits from the hands-on focus of this course. The course provides practical experience with Cisco devices and configuration of networking technologies such as switching, routing, and VLANs. This ensures that a network technician is well-versed in practical aspects of network management, including troubleshooting and maintaining network devices. The lab-heavy approach of this course is also invaluable for anyone in the field of network technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Technician
Network Administrator
A network administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of an organization's computer networks. This includes configuring and managing network devices like routers and switches, which are exactly the focus on this course. Hands-on experience with Cisco devices, as taught through practical labs, helps build a foundation for effective network configuration and troubleshooting. Furthermore, the course covers routing protocols like OSPF and BGP and switching technologies such as VLANs and STP, and this directly supports the skills needed for a network administrator to establish and maintain robust network infrastructure.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Network Consultant
A network consultant advises organizations on the design and implementation of network solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of network technologies, which this course helps build through hands-on labs and exercises. The course, with its practical focus, helps develop the necessary skills to design and implement network solutions. Knowledge gained from the course, including routing and switching, helps to formulate effective and efficient network designs for a network consultant. The course's focus on mastering Cisco devices is also beneficial to any consultant in the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Consultant
Network Architect
Network architects design and plan complex network infrastructures. This role requires in-depth knowledge of network protocols, design principles, and hands-on configuration skills, which is what this course provides. The course’s practical labs and networking concepts help build a foundation for understanding network design and planning best practices. The depth of knowledge gained from the course ensures that a network architect can effectively design scalable, reliable, and secure network architectures. An advanced degree such as a master's is typically required.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect
Technical Support Engineer
A technical support engineer provides advanced technical assistance for network related products. This course may be helpful because it focuses on Cisco equipment and network configurations. This course helps build network troubleshooting skills that are good for providing technical support to clients. The practical, hands-on approach of the course simulates real-world scenarios, which are invaluable for a technical support engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Network security engineers specialize in the security of an organization’s network infrastructure. While this course focuses on configuration, a grasp of network concepts is essential. This course may be useful because of the practical experience with Cisco devices and network protocols, which is a first step in a path toward network security. Through configuration and troubleshooting labs, the course helps provide background on how the underlying network operates. Furthermore, the course also explores switching security features, providing a first step toward a fundamental knowledge of security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Cloud Network Engineer
Cloud network engineers design and maintain the network infrastructure of cloud computing platforms. This course may be helpful as it covers routing protocols and network device configurations, especially with Cisco technologies. The course helps build skills in network segmentation using VLANs and redundancy using protocols like HSRP and VRRP. This provides relevant knowledge to understand the underlying network functionality in cloud environments and manage cloud networking resources. Furthermore, the experience in setting up and troubleshooting various network configurations provided by this course serves as an excellent foundation for such a role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Network Engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts protect computer networks and systems from security threats. While this course focuses on network configuration rather than security, a foundational knowledge of fundamental networking is crucial in cybersecurity. This course provides that foundational knowledge. The course’s content on VLANs, STP, and port security helps build a foundation for securing network devices. Understanding routing and switching is a good start toward a path toward being able to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in a network, which is necessary for a cybersecurity analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Telecommunications Specialist
Telecommunications specialists design, install, and maintain telecommunication systems. This course may be useful because it provides practical experience in networking and configuration of equipment. The routing and switching labs help to understand how data flows across networks. The focus on Cisco devices also makes this course a good starting point for a career in telecommunications, since Cisco is a leader in networking technologies. The course provides hands-on exercises which ensure a mastery of the practical aspects of network configuration.
See salaries and explore the career path for Telecommunications Specialist
Wireless Network Engineer
Wireless network engineers design, implement, and maintain wireless networks, which often involves routing and switching devices. This course may be helpful because the course's lessons on networking concepts, especially with Cisco equipment, may be useful as the engineer also needs to understand the wired infrastructure that supports wireless networks. The course helps build a foundation for managing and troubleshooting wireless networks which often sit on top of a wired infrastructure, and this provides a solid skill base needed for advanced wireless network roles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wireless Network Engineer
Unified Communications Engineer
Unified communications engineers manage integrated communication systems. This course may be useful because it covers network configuration, which is foundational when setting up unified communications systems. The course helps build a foundational understanding of networking and its role in communication. The hands-on labs may also assist in identifying and resolving network issues related to communications infrastructure, which makes it a good first step toward learning about this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Unified Communications Engineer
Systems Administrator
A systems administrator manages an organization's computer systems, including network infrastructure. This course may be useful because it touches on fundamental network concepts and hands-on experience with Cisco devices. The course helps build a foundation in network configurations, such as switching, routing, and DHCP, all of which are relevant for a systems administrator in managing basic network connectivity and troubleshooting network issues. The course's focus on practical labs also makes it a good choice for those who prefer a hands-on approach to learning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator
DevOps Engineer
A DevOps engineer integrates development and operations for efficient software deployment. This course may be useful because it introduces network configuration, which is relevant in understanding infrastructure. This course helps build a better understanding of how networking devices are configured and managed, making it easier for a DevOps engineer to troubleshoot and optimize deployment environments. The hands on labs provide practical knowledge that may make a DevOps engineer more effective.
See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer
IT Support Specialist
An IT support specialist offers technical assistance to users, often involving network troubleshooting. This course may be useful because it provides practical skills in configuring and managing Cisco devices, as well as a working knowledge of network concepts like routing and switching. The course helps build a foundation to understand network setups. With its lab focused exercises, this course provides the practical experience which is valuable in identifying and resolving network issues encountered by end users.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist

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 Hands on Cisco Labs: Master Course.
Cover image
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the CCNA 200-301 exam topics, including networking fundamentals, IP addressing, routing, and switching. It serves as an excellent reference for understanding the core concepts covered in the course. It is particularly useful for solidifying foundational knowledge and preparing for the practical labs. This book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals.
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Paperback
Check
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Troubleshooting IP Routing Protocols (CCIE...
Save
Focuses on troubleshooting common issues in Cisco IP networks, covering topics such as routing protocols, switching, and security. It provides practical guidance and real-world examples to help you diagnose and resolve network problems. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference. It adds more depth to the existing course.
Troubleshooting IP Routing Protocols (CCIE...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Effort
21 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Dan Mill
Language
English
Good to know
Offers hands-on experience with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) and Packet Tracer, which are commonly used in network simulation and testing environments
Covers routing protocols like OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP, which are essential for managing complex network infrastructures and ensuring efficient data delivery
Explores switch security configurations, including port security and 802.1X, which are crucial for protecting networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats
Includes topics like HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP, which are vital for implementing network redundancy and ensuring high availability in critical systems
Requires learners to install Cisco Modeling Labs, which may require specific system resources and configurations that not all learners may readily possess
Teaches SNMPv2, which is an older version of the Simple Network Management Protocol, while newer versions like SNMPv3 offer enhanced security features
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