Author: Asad Ijaz

NetworkUstad's lead networking architect with CCIE certification. Specializes in CCNA exam preparation and enterprise network design. Authored 2,800+ technical guides on Cisco systems, BGP routing, and network security protocols since 2018. Picture this: I'm not just someone who writes about tech; I'm a certified expert in the field. I proudly hold the titles of Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). So, when I talk about networking, I'm not just whistling in the dark; I know my stuff! My website is like a treasure trove of knowledge. You'll find a plethora of articles and tutorials covering a wide range of topics related to networking and cybersecurity. It's not just a website; it's a learning hub for anyone who's eager to dive into the world of bits, bytes, and secure connections. And here's a fun fact: I'm not a lone wolf in this journey. I'm a proud member and Editor of Team NetworkUstad. Together, we're on a mission to empower people with the knowledge they need to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. So, if you're ready to embark on a tech-savvy adventure, stick around with me, Asad Ijaz Khattak. We're going to unravel the mysteries of technology, one article at a time!"
CCNA August 13, 2019

Data Frame Forwarding: Master Efficient Network Switching Techniques (Updated 2025)

Ethernet switching is a cornerstone of modern networking, enabling efficient data transfer in local area networks (LANs). For CCNA and CCNP students, understanding switching methods like store-and-forward and cut-through is critical for designing and troubleshooting networks. This article explores the evolution from Ethernet bridges to advanced LAN switches, focusing on frame forwarding techniques, their characteristics,...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Network diagram showing a switch with eight ports connected to various hosts. A broadcast envelope icon is positioned above the switch, and a MAC address table below lists seven destination MAC addresses with assigned ports.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Master Switching Concepts: Unlock Efficient Data Flow (Updated 2025)

This article clarifies switching concepts, a cornerstone of networking and telecommunications, used in LANs, WANs, and PSTN with Cisco switches. Switching and frame forwarding rely on ingress ports and destination MAC addresses, managed via the MAC address table (CAM table) on Cisco Catalyst switches. For CCNA and CCNP students, mastering these concepts is essential for...
Asad Ijaz Read More
A diagram illustrating the evolution from a flat network to a hierarchical network. The flat network shows a single layer with multiple interconnected devices, including computers, IP phones, and switches, leading to broadcast traffic issues. The hierarchical network is divided into three layers: Core Layer with high-speed switches, Distribution Layer with routing and switching devices, and Access Layer with computers and IP phones, reducing broadcast traffic and improving efficiency.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Master Switched Networks for CCNA/CCNP Success (Updated 2025)

A few years ago, flat Layer 2 switched networks, relying on Ethernet hubs and repeaters, were the standard for campus LANs, broadcasting traffic inefficiently. The shift to switched LANs, as shown in Figure 1, introduced hierarchical designs using Cisco Catalyst switches, enabling traffic management, scalability, and advanced features. For CCNA and CCNP students, understanding this...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Diagram of Cisco Borderless Network topology showing a three-tier hierarchical design with Core, Distribution, and Access layers. Includes Cisco Catalyst switches, IP Phone, PC, Cisco wireless AP, and Cisco DNA Center for management.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Master Cisco Borderless Networks (Updated 2025)

Cisco Borderless Networks enable secure, seamless connectivity for any user, device, or location, integrating wired and wireless access with advanced policy and performance management. Designed to address IT challenges like mobility, security, and scalability, this architecture leverages Cisco Catalyst switches, ISR routers, and tools like Cisco DNA Center. For CCNA and CCNP students, understanding Borderless...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Illustration of a converged enterprise network with Cisco devices connecting voice, video, and data endpoints across core, distribution, and access layers.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Master Converged Networks: Cisco Tools and Tips for Certification (Updated 2025)

A converged network integrates voice, video, and data traffic over a single, high-performance IP infrastructure, enabling efficient communication for modern businesses. Unlike traditional networks that rely on separate infrastructures for each service, a converged network leverages Layer 2 (e.g., Ethernet switches) and Layer 3 (e.g., routers) devices to streamline operations. For CCNA and CCNP students,...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Cisco router CLI output showing the result of the show ip interface brief command, displaying interface status and IP addresses.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Important Show Commands in Cisco IOs (Updated 2025)

The Show commands display important information about the device’s configuration and operation in Cisco IOs Command Line Interface (CLI) mode. Network administrators can use different show commands to check device status, interfaces, processes, and configuration files to confirm the device’s operational status. The network administrator can also view the router’s process and function and verify...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Screenshot of a command prompt showing a tracert command tracing the route to 192.168.1.1 over 30 hops, with responses from Router Peshawar (10.1.1.1), Router Kanak (10.2.2.2), and subsequent request timeouts.
CCNA August 12, 2019

Traceroute and Tracert – 2 Important command

Traceroute (or Tracert on Windows) is a diagnostic tool that maps the route of packets from a source to a destination using ICMP Echo Request packets. It displays each hop (router) along the path, helping network engineers troubleshoot connectivity issues. This guide is tailored for CCNA and CCNP students to master Traceroute for exams and...
Asad Ijaz Read More
CCNA August 11, 2019

Master Network Baseline (Updated 2025)

Do you know your standard network throughput volume and the types of traffic used in your network? You should require a network baseline if you don’t know the answers to the above questions. The network baseline is one of the most valuable tools for monitoring and troubleshooting network performance. For an influential network, a baseline...
Asad Ijaz Read More
A screenshot of a Cisco IOS Ping Simulator interface with buttons for Successful Ping, Timeout Ping, Unreachable, Loopback Test, and Extended Ping, along with a terminal prompt and ping indicators legend.
CCNA August 11, 2019

Understanding Ping Indicators and Ping Results in Cisco IOS (Updared 2025)

The ping command is a fundamental network troubleshooting tool that uses the Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP), as defined in RFC 792, to test connectivity between devices. It is essential for CCNA (ICND1, ICND2) and CCNP (ROUTE, SWITCH, TSHOOT) exam preparation, helping students verify Layer 3 connectivity by the ping results. This utility has evolved...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Network diagram showing Comcast Xfinity and AT&T Internet routers connected to a central router, server, and multiple computers for redundancy and traffic management.
CCNA August 10, 2019

Master Network Uptime with Powerful Redundancy Strategies For Small Network (Updated 2025)

Redundancy In a Small Network Redundancy is a critical factor in network design, ensuring reliability and minimizing costly downtime in a business. It eliminates single points of failure, enhancing small network resilience. There are several ways to achieve redundancy in a small network. Network redundancy can be achieved by installing standby and alternate network devices,...
Asad Ijaz Read More
Forum