Category: CCNA

Cisco Certified Network Associate certification resources

Diagram of IPv4 loopback interface configuration in a Cisco router, highlighting logical structure, constant “up” state, and usage in BGP, OSPF, and router management.
CCNA August 20, 2019

How to Configure an IPv4 Loopback Interface

The IPv4 loopback interface is logically configured internally in the router. In this lesson, we should discuss this interface configuration, but at this stage, it is necessary to know the IPv4 interface configuration before the IPv4 loopback interface configuration. I discussed the IPv4 interface configuration in one of my previous lessons. The address of the...
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LAN topology diagram showing two Cisco switches, one router, and four connected hosts. Highlights IP address assignments, VLAN configurations, and default gateways for remote management.
CCNA August 20, 2019

How to Enable IP Address on Network Switches

For CCNA and CCNP students, understanding how to enable IP address on network switches is critical for enabling remote management and ensuring efficient network operations. Network switches, unlike routers, primarily operate at Layer 2, forwarding frames based on MAC addresses. However, to manage a switch remotely using protocols like SSH, Telnet, HTTP, or HTTPS, an...
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Hand connecting a cable to a Cisco device for console access.
CCNA August 20, 2019

What is Console Access to Cisco Devices

Console Access is an essential topic for networking students, so I will explain console access to Cisco devices in this lesson. All Cisco routers and switches have a console port, the management interface. It connects a computer directly to a router or switch and manages it. The console port is also used for initial configuration....
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Visual diagram of network device LEDs—green for link and activity, amber for faults—on Ethernet ports and Cisco switches, highlighting diagnostic cues and typical LED states.
CCNA August 19, 2019

Introduction to Status LEDs of Ethernet and Network Devices

Device status LEDs are essential tools for CCNA and CCNP students, offering quick visual cues to diagnose network issues. These indicators on NICs, hubs, routers, and switches help troubleshoot connectivity, performance, and faults efficiently. This article explores common LED meanings, Cisco-specific indicators, and practical tips to master network monitoring for certification and real-world success. Ethernet...
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Illustration of IP configuration: one screen shows static IP details (192.168.1.10, subnet mask, gateway, DNS), while the other displays dynamic settings via DHCP for automated network communication.
CCNA August 19, 2019

How to Assign an IP Address to Windows Computer

Assigning IP addresses to host computers and network devices is a critical skill for CCNA and CCNP students, ensuring efficient network communication and management. This article explores two primary methods—static and dynamic IP assignment—providing step-by-step guidance on how to assign an IP address to Windows hosts and Cisco devices. Mastering these techniques to assign an...
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Network documentation diagram showing a Cisco topology with a router (192.168.1.1), switch, firewall, VLAN 10 (server 192.168.1.10), and VLAN 20 (servers 192.168.1.20, 192.168.1.21) for CCNA/CCNP.
CCNA August 19, 2019

Network Documentation: The Essential Guide to Boost Network Efficiency in 2025

Network documentation is a critical skill for CCNA and CCNP students, serving as the backbone of efficient network management and troubleshooting. Comprehensive documentation ensures quick recovery from failures, simplifies upgrades, and supports compliance with industry standards. This article explores the essential components of network documentation, including topology diagrams, server details, and backup procedures, providing practical...
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Diagram illustrating three Cisco router packet-forwarding mechanisms—Process Switching, Fast Switching, and Cisco Express Forwarding (CEF)—with network flow arrows and interface icons on a clean tech background.
CCNA August 18, 2019

Cisco Router Forwarding Mechanism Briefly Explained

Understanding Cisco Router Forwarding Mechanism is a cornerstone of networking for CCNA and CCNP students. Routers, the backbone of network connectivity, rely on efficient packet-forwarding mechanisms to direct traffic toward its destination. Cisco routers support three primary methods—Process Switching, Fast Switching, and Cisco Express Forwarding (CEF)—each with unique characteristics affecting performance, scalability, and resource usage....
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CCNA August 18, 2019

What is VLAN Attacks – Brief Explanation

In the previous article, I explained how trunks work. By default, trunk ports can use all VLANs and pass traffic for multiple VLANs across the same physical link between switches. The VLAN simplifies network administration and maintenance. It also improves the performance of the network, but it has some backhaul for hackers which is necessary...
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CCNA August 18, 2019

What are Trunk Links? Common Problem and Troubleshooting

Trunk links are a common problem that mostly occurs due to incorrect configurations. Troubleshooting trunk links problems is a common task in networking. If a problem with a trunk is found and the cause is unknown, first, check the trunks for a native VLAN mismatch. If the native VLAN is correct, then check for trunk...
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CCNA August 18, 2019

Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) Explained

The Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) is a Cisco proprietary protocol used to negotiate trunking between Cisco switches. For CCNA and CCNP students, understanding DTP is crucial for configuring and troubleshooting VLAN trunk links in enterprise networks. DTP simplifies the process of establishing trunk connections by automatically negotiating whether a link should operate in trunk or...
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