Cisco^® Networking:
A Comprehensive Hands-On Introduction

What is this course about?

The goal of this course is to provide individuals who have a basic understanding of networking concepts with the knowledge and skills needed to configure, install, maintain and monitor Cisco routers and switches. At the end of this course you:

• Understand the major components of Cisco devices at a block-diagram level
• Are familiar with the syntax of the Cisco Internetwork Operating System (IOS) and the commands needed to configure, troubleshoot and monitor Cisco routers and switches
• Are able to configure router interface parameters for Ethernet, leased WAN facilities, Frame Relay, ISDN and ATM
• Understand the operation of the TCP/IP protocol suite, IP addressing and subnetting
• Know how to configure IP routing using static routes
• Know how to configure IP routing using different routing protocols, including RIP Version 1, RIP Version 2, OSPF and EIGRP, and understand the implications of routing protocols on network performance
• Configure LAN switches to supply local connectivity for servers and workstations
• Understand how to use Virtual LANs (VLANs), how to interconnect switches using trunks, and to interconnect VLANs
• Know how to use the embedded Cisco tools such as trace and debug, and to use the Cisco documentation for troubleshooting and reference purposes

You grasp the theory of operation of Cisco devices and apply this knowledge in developing hands-on real-world strategies for your organisation.

What background should I have?

We assume you already have a fundamental understanding of networking concepts. You should understand the operation of Ethernet, the role of a network protocol suite, and general data communications principles. Course 364, Switches and Routers: A Comprehensive Hands-On Introduction, would be helpful.

Who will benefit from this course?

The course is aimed largely at network administrators, technicians, designers and managers who are or will be involved in the deployment and operation of Cisco routers and switches in production networks. You acquire the skills and confidence necessary to deploy Cisco devices and customise their configuration for your own environment.

What kind of devices do you talk about?

The command syntax and principles you learn are applicable to almost all Cisco routers and switches because most Cisco devices run common IOS software. The classroom network is built using 2600 or 2800 series routers, and 2900 series switches. These devices are widely deployed in production networks throughout the world and support all features discussed in this class.

Will I have access to a router?

Yes. Each workstation, at which two participants work, has its own router. Most of the hands-on exercises allow independent work for each two-person team. One of the hands-on exercises requires connecting to another team, which closely parallels the real-world where you are required to connect to a remote location or perhaps another organisation.

How does this course prepare me for the Cisco Career Certification exams?

This course covers all of the core technologies included on the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam. It also includes content that is applicable to the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) exams. Please see the Learning Tree Cisco Certification and Testing Q&A for more detailed information about the career certifications offered by Cisco and how Learning Tree courses can help you prepare for the exams.

Which operating system does the class use for the hands-on exercises?

Each workstation has a computer running Windows XP Professional. This system is used to interact with the router with a terminal emulator, TFTP server, and the client TCP/IP software on the workstation. To simulate the real-world environment Windows 2003 servers are present. The class network uses Ethernet and simulated WAN circuits. Cisco IOS software is continually upgraded to current release levels.

How much time is spent on each topic?

What kinds of hands-on exercises are in the class?

Approximately 40 percent of class time is spent in hands-on exercises. Hands-on exercises include:

• Configuring new routers from an initial factory (blank) configuration
• Configuring and testing IP addresses and subnets
• Configuring and testing IP routing using static routes
• Configuring and testing IP routing with RIP Version 1, RIP Version 2, OSPF and EIGRP routing protocols
• LAN switch deployment including access switchport configuration, defining VLANs and interswitch trunk lines, and routing between VLANs
• Configuring and testing WAN interfaces using the HDLC and PPP line encapsulation protocols
• Using TFTP to save router configuration files and upgrade the IOS software
• Recovering a lost password on a Cisco router
• Securing router access with user names and passwords
• Using SNMP to manage and monitor your routers

How does this course relate to other Learning Tree courses?

• 364, Switches and Routers: A Comprehensive Hands-On Introduction is an introduction to internetworking concepts and provides a good understanding of the use of bridges and routers in modern multiprotocol internetworks.
• 367, TCP/IP: A Comprehensive Hands-On Introduction provides a sound background in internetworking principles and the TCP/IP protocol family. Course 466 shows how Cisco implements TCP/IP routing.
• 451, Network Configuration and Troubleshooting: Hands-On offers the skills necessary to configure networks and resolve problems using a comprehensive set of tools and techniques.

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