Category Archives: CCNA

FREE VIDEO: How to Configure VLAN s in the Cisco IOS

Recently, I created a short video that shows you how to configure and use VLAN s on a Cisco IOS Router & Switch. It is a step-by-step 15 minute video. It was originally published over at SearchNetworking.com. A virtual LAN (VLAN) is a broadcast domain created by switches. VLANs are a convenient way to connect ports from different switches and different buildings onto the same network and broadcast domain, preventing the need for a complex system of subnets.

In this video, you will learn how to configure a VLAN in this step-by-step, automated, 15-minute demo. I am a CCIE Cisco networking expert and I will walk you through the steps you’ll need to configure your routers and switches, set up and assign the trunk ports, and perform the necessary tests to get traffic moving across your VLAN successfully. You can view the configuration commands I used in the video at the bottom of this page.

Oh – if you would like to see an EXCELLENT video training course that covers all aspects of VLAN configuration, switch configuration, and prepares you for the CCNP, please check out the Train Signal Cisco CCNP Training Video Series – 642-812 BCMSN

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Cisco ACL Editor and Simulator

I consider myself fortunate to run across a new program called the Cisco ACL Editor and Simulator. This program allows you to create ACLs in Windows GUI application by filling out fields on a form. Even better, it allows you to then take that ACL and simulate what traffic would pass through the ACL. This way, you can test your ACL’s before you apply them, saving a huge amount of time and effort.

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How to Select equipment for CCNA Studies

Recently, I received a PM from a HappyRouter.com member,asking for help in selecting equipment for his CCNA studies. There are a ton of choices out there and a lot of vendors trying to push equipment on new users that they may or may not need.

In the dialog below, you will see how I made the following recommendations to our member:

1) You don’t have to buy equipment for CCNA preparation but it will help you learn more and retain what you need for the test

2) Only get the most basic equipment needed, such as Cisco 2500 series routers. In fact, you should be able to spend no more than $300 to get a couple of routers and a switch.

3) For learning concepts and seeing how things should work in the Cisco IOS, take a look at the Train Signal CCNA videos – they cover the whole gamut of router, switches, subnetting, VLANS, and more. Plus, they come with study questions and a lab book!

The conversation on this topic follows….

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