Switching, VLANs and Spanning Tree

What the page covers

This unit collects material on how switched networks work. The largest themes are spanning tree, VLANs and trunking, EtherChannel, switch security and first hop redundancy. Most resources were written with Cisco certification in mind, so you will see CCNA and CCNP wording throughout.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map Spanning Tree Protocol. It lists the versions of the protocol and explains what goes wrong without it: Ethernet frames can loop around the network for a very long time. Then read the notes titled Spanning Tree and RSTP to fill in the detail.

If you are newer to switching, the mind maps How a Switch Works and Switched Network give a gentler entry point before the protocol-heavy material.

A sensible order

1. Switch basics and Ethernet LANs.
2. VLANs and trunks, using the CCNA – VLAN and CCNA – Trunking quizzes.
3. Spanning tree and RSTP, with the CCNA – RSTP quiz and the flashcard deck on RSTP.
4. EtherChannel, including the CCNA Comprehensive flashcards, which ask about PAgP and bundling rules.
5. First hop redundancy, with the FHRP Quiz and the First Hop Redundancy Protocols mind map.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a mind map first to see how the ideas connect. Then take a quiz on the same topic and note which questions you miss. Go back to the map or a note for those branches only. Flashcards suit short sessions, for example the decks on VLANs, trunking and spanning tree configuration.

Quizzes such as CCNP Switch 5 use scenario questions about path cost and switchport choice, so they work well once the basics feel settled.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the strand Switching, Routing and WANs, within Networks and telecommunications. Open a resource that matches your next topic and see how far you get.