Author Archives

Apr 25, 2012 | Post by: aaron No Comments

STP and Link Load Sharing

I want to share an example of Spanning Tree link load sharing across parallel paths between the same switches. Most organizations do not tune their STP topology to this level, but the example helps explain a major use of the port priority option and how it works. Let’s assume we

Read More
Mar 16, 2012 | Post by: aaron No Comments

Topology-Based Switching

  Most of Cisco’s switches support the ability to forward frames in hardware based in layer 3 and 4 information. This dramatically improves forwarding performance between network segments and is known as mult-layer switching, or MLS. Catalyst switches have supported different MLS types over the years, including process switching, route

Read More
Feb 29, 2012 | Post by: aaron No Comments

VoIP & QoS

Voice over IP (VoIP) is becoming more and more common in the enterprise world by replacing traditional TDM phone systems with feature-rich IP-based communication servers.   Some benefits of converged voice, video, and data into a single network include:         Expense reducer If only a single cable drop is required per user, cabling

Read More
Feb 28, 2012 | Post by: aaron No Comments

Announcing the new CCNPGuide.com Blog!

  I’ve wanted to start a blog for a long time on the site as a way to interact with those of you preparing for your certifications in a more direct fashion. I want to use this to do a few things including: Walk through some of the more difficult

Read More
Jun 21, 2011 | Post by: aaron No Comments

CCNP TSHOOT 642-832 :: Layer 3 Troubleshooting

  Before we get into the layer 3 troubleshooting methods, we first need to make sure we have a basic understanding of how routers and multilayer switches route traffic.  Three tables are used: the routing table, ARP table, and CEF mappings. The routing table pairs network prefixes with the router’s

Read More
May 23, 2011 | Post by: aaron 2 Comments

CCNP TSHOOT 642-832 :: Layer 2 Troubleshooting

  Poor Switch Performance Most performance issues on switches are related to one of three errors: Cabling and port problems (layer 1) Duplex mismatches between switch ports and an attached device TCAM issues. Physical layer Troubleshooting Commands show interface show interface counters show interface counters errors Look for the following

Read More
May 18, 2011 | Post by: aaron No Comments

CCNP TSHOOT 642-832 :: The Art of Troubleshooting

  There are two elements to good troubleshooting – preparation and technique. Preparation comes in the form of documentation, change control, and understanding of the environment. The second part, technique, is just as important. There are a number of methods to tackle the same problem. To be honest, Cisco doesn’t

Read More
May 12, 2011 | Post by: aaron No Comments

CCNP TSHOOT 642-832 :: Network Maintenance

  Maintenance is no doubt an important component to network stability and that’s why we see it covered on the troubleshooting exam.  This is perfect multiple-choice style content as it is difficult to test your understanding of maintenance concepts and methodologies on a simulation-focused exam like TSHOOT.  Keep that in mind

Read More
Mar 16, 2011 | Post by: aaron 2 Comments

CCNP ROUTE 642-902 :: VPNs and IPSec

  VPN tunnels and IPSec are two topics covered on the exam, but not in great detail.  You’ll need to know enough to verify a sample configuration and answer straightforward questions on both technologies.  Let’s start with IPSec. IPSec Basics IPSec allows the establishment of a secure connection between two

Read More
Mar 10, 2011 | Post by: aaron No Comments

CCNP ROUTE 642-902 :: IPv6

  IPv6 is an important topic – and not just for the exam.  The growth of web-based services and diminishing IPv4 addressing will continue to push organizations towards IPv6, especially on web-facing networks. Basics IPv4 addresses are 32 bits long and are represented in dotted-decimal format.  IPv6 addresses are 128

Read More

  • Testimonials

    I used the guide to pass my CCNP route with flying colors. Now my plan is to use the switch guide.

    Russell

    I just wanted to thank you for your notes, they REALLY helped me put the SWITCH topics into perpesctive. 642-813 is as you know quite a difficult exam because it covers such a wide range of areas, and Im happy to say that with the help of your notes I successfully passed it today.

    Cheers,
    Sean from Ireland

    Really liked the design and makeup of the guide. Topics and hints and tips were right on the mark. Very helpful. a job well done and much appreciated!

    Derek

    Just thought that I’d take some time to write and thank-you for creating the CCNP Switch Guide, I bought the guide 10-days ago as final preparation for my exam which I sat this morning and I passed with 934 largely thanks to the guide!!! The guide has been absolutely invaluable, so concise and straight to [...]


    Hi, I passed the Route exam yesterday with a score of 965 and I couldn’t have done it without the use of your guide. I love the way in which your guide is so exam focussed, it cuts out all of the unnecessary padding that you find in the Cisco press! As I’ve now used [...]

    Cheers,
    Chris