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Module 6: Switch Configuration / Overview

Switch Configuration / Overview

 When teaching Module 6, explain how a Catalyst switch goes through its startup on powering up. When the startup is complete, the initial software settings may be configured. In this module students will have the opportunity to complete a series of hands-on labs that should help them feel comfortable with the command-line interface (CLI) configuration of switches. Comparisons can be made between the ways students have been programming routers and the way they will program switches. It is suggested that the case study be examined along with the work in this module, since the students will begin programming the switches. Relate what they are learning to the case study.
CAUTION:
This module contains many hands-on labs and instructors are encouraged to assist their students in completing as many of these labs as possible. Prepare the students to see different outputs based on the type of switch they are using. Some academies may be using the menu driven switches, so instructors need to ensure that these students understand how to program the CLI switches. This could be achieved by the use of mini-lectures and demonstrations.

 A switch is a Layer 2 network device that acts as the concentration point for the connection of workstations, servers, routers, hubs, and other switches.
A hub is an older type of concentration device that also provides multiple ports. However, hubs are inferior to switches because all devices connected to a hub share the bandwidth and the same collision domain. Another drawback to hubs is that they only operate in half-duplex mode. In half-duplex mode, hubs can only send or receive data at any given time, but they cannot do both at the same time. Switches can operate in full-duplex mode, which means they can send and receive data simultaneously.
Switches are multi-port bridges. Switches are the current standard technology for Ethernet LANs that utilize a star topology. A switch provides many dedicated, point-to-point virtual circuits between connected network devices, so collisions are not likely to occur.
Because of the dominant role of switches in modern networks, the ability to understand and configure switches is essential for network support.
New switches have a preset configuration with factory defaults. This configuration rarely meets the needs of network administrators. Switches can be configured and managed from a command-line interface (CLI). Network devices can also be configured and managed through a web based interface and a browser.
Network administrators must be familiar with all tasks associated with the management of networks with switches. Some of these tasks include maintenance of the switch and its IOS. Other tasks include management of the interfaces and tables for optimal, reliable, and secure operation. Basic switch configuration, IOS upgrades, and password recovery are essential network administrator skills.
This module covers some of the objectives for the CCNA 640-801 and ICND 640-811 exams. 
Students who complete this module should be able to perform the following tasks: 
  • Identify the major components of a Catalyst switch
  • Monitor switch activity and status with the use of LED indicators
  • Examine the switch bootup output with the use of HyperTerminal
  • Use the help features of the command-line interface
  • List the major switch command modes
  • Verify the default settings of a Catalyst switch
  • Set an IP address and default gateway for the switch to allow connection and management over a network
  • View the switch settings with a Web browser
  • Configure interfaces for speed and duplex operation
  • Examine and manage the switch MAC address table
  • Configure port security
  • Manage configuration files and IOS images
  • Perform password recovery on a switch
  • Upgrade the IOS of a switch 

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