CMPS 161: Networking and Security

Introduction

Besides routers, another very important device is a switch. In essence, whereas a router connects networks, a switch makes the networks themselves possible. Switches have largely replaced hubs, which could be considered unintelligent switches. An important concept for switches are Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), because with this technology it is possible to dynamically define LANs without physically rewiring cables. In addition, we will look at how routers perform routing. As you can imagine, sending a packet from one continent to another is no trivial task and requires sophisticated algorithms. This is especially true if you take into account that the internet has to be robust against failures.

Module Objectives

• Be able to identify and describe the three types of VLANs
• Discuss two ways for establishing VLAN membership
• Understand how to use the commands to configure a network switch
• Be able to explain the steps for configuring a static VLAN
• Explain the purpose of the Spanning-Tree Protocol
• Discuss the purpose of the five Spanning-Tree Protocol states
• Understand how to use SNMP tools for network management
• Discuss the advantages of using Power over Ethernet

Learning Resources

• Module 9 Readings: Chapter 8
• Module 9 Slides: Chapter 8

Learning Activities

• Module 9 Quiz: Chapter 8
• Module 9 Assignment: Critical Thinking questions from the end of the chapter

For Further Study

It is highly recommended to work through the exercises at the end of the chapter.