Fixed-Length Subnet Masking (FLSM), also known as traditional or classful subnetting, is a foundational concept in IP addressing that CCNA students must master before advancing to more efficient techniques like VLSM in CCNP. In FLSM, an equal number of addresses is allocated to each subnet using a uniform mask length, which simplifies routing in internal…
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Only the IP address of the next-hop IPv6 is specified in the next-hop static IPv6 route. The exit interface is derived from the next hop. For example, in Figure 1, three next-hop static routes are configured on Router 0. Before forwarding any packet, the router must resolve the route to determine the exit interface to
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We can configure static or dynamic routes after configuring directly connected interfaces. Static routes are manually configured and provide a clear path between two networking devices. However, they must be manually reconfigured if the network topology changes, which is the main disadvantage of static routes. It is more secure and efficient than dynamic routes. It
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Cisco Catalyst switches support a VLAN ID Range from 1 to 4094, divided into normal (1-1005) and extended (1006-4094) ranges. The normal range suits small to enterprise networks, with VLANs 1002-1005 reserved for Token Ring and FDDI, and cannot be removed. Extended ranges, stored in the running-config, support service providers but offer fewer features and
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Separation of the large broadcast domain into smaller ones improves network performance. By design, routers block broadcast traffic. But routers usually have a limited number of LAN interfaces. A router’s main role is to move data between different networks. Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) enhance network performance by segmenting large broadcast domains into smaller, manageable
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
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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,
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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,
This guide is designed for network professionals using Windows (e.g., 10/11) or Linux (e.g., Ubuntu 22.04) systems. Network configuration can be managed via Command Prompt (cmd) on Windows or terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) on Linux, with tools like ipconfig (Windows) or ifconfig (Linux) for IP management. These OS platforms are essential for implementing
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The Server Message Block (SMB) is a network protocol that allows the host to share data within the same network. It shares directories, files, printers, and serial ports as quickly as on the local computer. It is a request-response protocol that uses TCP port 445 for communication. All the messages of the SMB protocol have
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