Cisco Switching, IPv6, Security & Network Optimization

Packt via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Overview

Google, IBM & Meta Certificates – 40% Off

One Coursera Plus subscription covers most Professional Certificates on Coursera.

Unlock All Certificates

Master advanced Cisco switching, IPv6 deployment, network security, VPNs, and quality of service. This course empowers you to implement complex switching architectures, secure networks, and optimize performance in modern Cisco environments. This course explores advanced topics in Cisco switching, including architecture, VLANs, trunking, spanning tree, EtherChannels, and security features such as port security and 802.1X. You will learn about routing fundamentals, redundancy protocols, and advanced OSPF configurations. The course also covers IPv6 theory and deployment, VPN setup, QoS configuration, and introduces Cisco Firepower Threat Defense and firewall management. By the end, you will be able to design, secure, and optimize enterprise-grade Cisco networks, leveraging the latest technologies and best practices. The course provides in-depth explanations and guided configuration examples, focusing on advanced network design, security, and optimization. Learners will gain practical insights into deploying and managing complex Cisco network solutions. This course is part three of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Cisco Networking Mastery - Practical Routing and Switching Labs, by Dan Mill. This course is licensed and distributed by Packt. All rights reserved. Packt is one of the world's most prolific publishers of cutting-edge technical content. For over two decades we've made it our mission to curate and publish the knowledge of only the very best technical experts. We focus on real-world courses that help our customers get the job done, with coverage that extends across a wide range of established and cutting-edge technical topics. If you're an individual or an organisation that embraces learning by doing, Packt is the perfect fit for you.

Syllabus

Switching Fundamentals
- This module covers essential configuration and security practices for Cisco switches, including time synchronization, SNMP monitoring, VLAN setup, password protection, and backup strategies. Learners will gain hands-on knowledge to manage and secure network devices effectively.
Switching Architecture
- This module explores the fundamental principles of switching architecture, including switching methods, topologies, and design considerations such as redundancy, scalability, and network performance. Learners will gain a deep understanding of how different architectures impact network efficiency and reliability. The content emphasizes practical knowledge for configuring and evaluating network switching solutions.
Switching VLANs and Trunking
- This module covers the fundamentals of VLANs, including access, trunk, and voice VLANs, and explores how to configure them on Cisco switches. Learners will gain practical knowledge of VLAN segmentation, traffic management, and real-world network applications in enterprise environments.
Switching Spanning Tree
- This module explores key spanning tree protocols and their configurations, focusing on loop prevention techniques and optimizing network performance through PVST, RSTP, and MST. Learners will gain hands-on knowledge of how to implement and manage these protocols in enterprise environments.
Switching EtherChannels (Link Aggregation / Port Channels)
- This module covers the configuration and implementation of EtherChannels at both Layer 2 and Layer 3, focusing on how to bundle physical links for increased bandwidth and redundancy. Learners will gain hands-on knowledge of link aggregation, inter-VLAN routing, and best practices for switching and routing environments.
Switching Security
- This module covers key techniques for securing network switches, including configuring port security, 802.1X authentication, DHCP snooping, and ARP inspection. Learners will gain hands-on experience in implementing security measures to protect against threats like rogue DHCP servers and ARP poisoning. The content prepares students to defend network integrity and enforce access control policies.
Routing Fundamentals
- This module covers the fundamentals of routing in network configurations, focusing on static and default routing. Learners will gain hands-on experience in setting up and verifying route configurations on Cisco devices. The content prepares learners to manage network traffic effectively using routing protocols.
Router Redundancy Protocols
- This module covers various router redundancy protocols such as HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP, focusing on their implementation to ensure network availability, failover, and load balancing. Learners will explore how to configure these protocols and understand their roles in maintaining reliable network operations.
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
- This module covers the configuration and optimization of Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) routing protocols, including single and multi-area configurations, DR/BDR elections, timer adjustments, and area types like stub and NSSA. Learners will develop the skills to manage OSPF in complex network environments and ensure efficient routing and convergence.
Controlling Routes
- This module explores the use of prefix lists in Cisco routers to manage and control routing updates. Learners will gain an understanding of how to filter network prefixes and influence routing table behavior. The focus is on practical techniques for implementing and analyzing routing policies.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol Configuration (DHCP)
- This module covers the essential steps to configure a Cisco router as a DHCP server, including setting up IP address pools, managing exclusions, and verifying configurations. Learners will gain hands-on skills in network automation and troubleshooting.
Upgrading IOS on Cisco Devices
- This module provides hands-on guidance on upgrading Cisco IOS firmware on routers and switches using TFTP. Learners will gain practical knowledge on ensuring successful software updates through backup strategies, version verification, and flash memory management.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN)
- This module covers the configuration and implementation of different types of virtual private networks, including GRE and IKEv2 tunnels. Learners will gain hands-on experience with secure communication between remote networks, focusing on tunnel setup, encryption, and traffic management.
QoS Configuration
- This module covers essential Quality of Service (QoS) techniques for configuring Cisco routers to manage network traffic efficiently. Learners will explore traffic shaping, policing, queuing, and application recognition to optimize network performance and ensure critical traffic is prioritized.
IPv6 Theory
- This module provides hands-on training in configuring IPv6 addresses and static routes on Cisco routers, focusing on practical implementation and comparison with IPv4. Learners will gain a solid understanding of IPv6 network setup and troubleshooting techniques.
IPv6 Packet Tracer
- This module provides hands-on instruction on configuring and managing IPv6 networks using Cisco Packet Tracer. Learners will gain practical skills in setting up IPv6 addresses, implementing routing protocols, and troubleshooting common IPv6 issues. The content covers both fundamental and advanced IPv6 concepts applicable to real-world network environments.
Cisco Firepower Threat Defense and Firewall Management Center Fundamentals
- This module introduces learners to Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) and Firewall Management Center (FMC), focusing on setup, configuration, and management of network security tools. It also covers the use of Cisco Modeling Labs for simulating and testing network environments. Learners will gain hands-on skills in deploying and troubleshooting security policies and network configurations.
Cisco Packet Tracer - More Labs!
- This module provides hands-on training in configuring and managing Cisco Packet Tracer labs, covering essential network setup, security, routing, and monitoring techniques. Learners will gain practical experience with device configuration, VLANs, routing protocols, and network troubleshooting tools to build and maintain robust network infrastructures.