The most complete guide to Cisco Catalyst(r) switch network design, operation, and configuration

• Master key foundation topics such as high-speed LAN technologies, LAN segmentation, bridging, the Catalyst command-line environment, and VLANs
• Improve the performance of your campus network by utilizing effective Cisco Catalyst design, configuration, and troubleshooting techniques
• Benefit from the most comprehensive coverage of Spanning-Tree Protocol, including invaluable information on troubleshooting common Spanning Tree problems
• Master trunking concepts and applications, including ISL, 802.1Q, LANE, and MPOA
• Understand when and how to utilize Layer 3 switching techniques for maximum effect
• Understand Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching configuration with the Catalyst 6000 family, including coverage of the powerful MSFC Native IOS Mode

Cisco LAN Switchingprovides the most comprehensive coverage of the best methods for designing, utilizing, and deploying LAN switching devices and technologies in a modern campus network. Divided into six parts, this book takes you beyond basic switching concepts by providing an array of proven design models, practical implementation solutions, and troubleshooting strategies. Part I discusses important foundation issues that provide a context for the rest of the book, including Fast and Gigabit Ethernet, routing versus switching, the types of Layer 2 switching, the Catalyst command-line environment, and VLANs. Part II presents the most detailed discussion of Spanning-Tree Protocol in print, including common problems, troubleshooting, and enhancements, such as PortFast, UplinkFast, BackboneFast, and PVST+. Part III examines the critical issue of trunk connections, the links used to carry multiple VLANs through campus networks. Entire chapters are dedicated to LANE and MPOA. Part IV addresses advanced features, such as Layer 3 switching, VTP, and CGMP and IGMP. Part V covers real-world campus design and implementation issues, allowing you to benefit from the collective advice of many LAN switching experts. Part VI discusses issues specific to the Catalyst 6000/6500 family of switches, including the powerful Native IOS Mode of Layer 3 switching.

Several features in Cisco LAN Switchingare designed to reinforce concepts covered in the book and to help you prepare for the CCIE exam. In addition to the practical discussion of advanced switching issues, this book also contains case studies that highlight real-world design, implementation, and management issues, as well as chapter-ending review questions and exercises.

This book is part of the Cisco CCIE Professional Development Series from Cisco Press, which offers expert-level instruction on network design, deployment, and support methodologies to help networking professionals manage complex networks and prepare for CCIE exams.

Average Customer Review: ( 45 customer reviews )
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It covers the whole lifecycle of a network - from the design to troubleshooting and every part of it is excellent and very well-explained which makes it easy to understand (as long as this could be "easy" ;).

Unfortunately the CLSC 1.0 test (from the CCNP track) focuses on a little different aspect than this book, which doesn't make this book less valuable. If you're planning on taking CLSC 2.0 (which is coming live later this year) this book fits so well like the test questions are written by the authors (quite likely ;).

In my opinion this book and "Routing TCP/IP" by Jeff Doyle are the best books on networking (and Cisco) ever written.

10 of 10 found the following review helpful:

A Beautiful Book!Apr 09, 2000
By Peter Park
I usually hold my praise until I take and pass an exam but I'll make exception for this awesome book. Most CCNP books seem very disjointed and filled with numerous technical and egregious editing errors. Simply put they don't make a lot of sense because they seem like a collection of cut-n-paste from other techinical documents. If you were trying to learn and understand various switching technologies including LANE, STP, VTP, VLAN or etc.... i can truly say that this book is the best. It explains with authority, clearity, and humour. After you read this book, you'll feel like your time reading it was well spent because you will understand reasons and whys. Its just a beautiful book. Thanks to authors.

7 of 7 found the following review helpful:

Invaluable for Cisco Catalyst ownersJun 07, 2000
By Richard Hicks
What this book provides: --- With some hands on experience, this book will make you an expert in Cisco LAN Switching. Every subject related to the design, troubleshooting and maintenance of switched networks is discussed in detail. I especially enjoyed the chapters on STP and Campus Design. If you already own Cisco Catalyst switches or are looking to buy Cisco Catalyst switches, this book is invaluable.

What this book does not provide: --- This book is not an introduction to LAN Switching. Many networking terms are not defined in the assumption that the reader has a networking background. If you are looking for an introduction to LAN Switching or networking, you will need to look elsewhere.

I also noticed a few errors in the book. Mostly just missing lines from networking diagrams and the text referring to the wrong figure.

6 of 6 found the following review helpful:

Needs updatingJun 20, 2005
By TAC monkey
This book provides great information on the core switching concepts. The Spanning tree section is excellent. Unfortunately the text's age is starting to show. Most of the examples are in CatOS.

6 of 6 found the following review helpful:

Best Book Available for Lan Switching and VLAN Design!Nov 04, 1999

I had an opportunity to review this book and found its discussions of VLAN's, implementation, design (best practice) and pitfalls, as invaluable knowledge. The additional discussions on ATM and designing switched Network was excellent. This book is logically put together, emphasizes real world, issues , and theory. Best book on switching and application of the technology that I have seen.

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