Packt

Cisco Switching, IPv6, Security & Network Optimization

Packt

Cisco Switching, IPv6, Security & Network Optimization

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Configure and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches

  • Implement QoS, VPNs, and other advanced networking services

  • Master routing protocols like EIGRP, OSPF, and BGP

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Recently updated!

August 2026

Assessments

19 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Cisco Networking: Routing & Switching Labs Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 18 modules in this course

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.

What's included

7 videos1 reading1 assignment

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.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

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.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

3 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

5 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

7 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

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.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

9 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

11 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

27 videos1 assignment

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.

What's included

49 videos1 reading2 assignments

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