As a CCNA or CCNP, you must be prepared for the unexpected. In the field, using the same command on different devices can yield vastly different results. Discover why this happens and how to manage it effectively, with insights from Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933.
One of the key challenges for CCNA and CCNP professionals is adapting to constant changes. Cisco frequently releases new IOS versions and a variety of hardware, from routers and switches to firewalls. While having the latest technology is ideal, not all clients will have the most up-to-date equipment. For instance, many organizations still use older Catalyst 5000 switches, which can behave differently from newer models like the 2950.
Imagine you're tasked with examining the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) setup for a new client. You're accustomed to using the show span command on 2950 switches to display spanning-tree information. However, when you run the same command on a Catalyst 5000 switch, you might see something unexpected:
switch (enable) show span
Destination : Port 6/1
Admin Source : Port 6/2
Oper Source : Port 6/2
Direction : transmit/receive
Incoming Packets: disabled
Learning : enabled
Multicast : enabled
Filter : -
Status : active
Total local span sessions: 1
The show span command on a Catalyst 5000 switch does not display spanning-tree statistics. Instead, it shows statistics related to the Switched Port Analyzer (SPAN). This can be surprising if you're not prepared for it.
If you're used to running show span on a 5000 switch to see SPAN information, you'll get spanning-tree information when you run it on a 2950. To get SPAN stats on a 2950, you need to use the show monitor session command followed by the SPAN session number:
SW1#show monitor session 1
Session 1
---------
Type : Local Session
Source Ports :
Both : Fa0/1
Destination Ports : Fa0/2
Encapsulation : Native
Ingress: Disabled
As a CCNA or CCNP, you must adapt to different command outputs across various devices. Commands can vary significantly between models, making it essential to be proficient with both IOS Help and Cisco's online documentation.
IOS Help is straightforward, but navigating Cisco's online documentation can be challenging initially. Once you master it, a wealth of Cisco knowledge becomes accessible. This skill is invaluable, especially when preparing for the CCIE lab exam, where it might be your only resource.
Navigating the complexities of different Cisco devices and IOS versions is a crucial skill for CCNA and CCNP professionals. By understanding the nuances of various commands and leveraging Cisco's extensive documentation, you can effectively manage and troubleshoot diverse network environments. This adaptability not only prepares you for real-world scenarios but also sets a strong foundation for advanced certifications like the CCIE.
For more information on Cisco certifications, visit the Cisco Learning Network and explore their comprehensive resources.
Cisco CCNA and CCNP Practice Exam Questions: Etherchannels, Network Security, and More!
Let's test your knowledge of Etherchannels, Voice protocols, and other important Cisco certification exam topics with these practice exam questions!
CCNA Security Exam Tutorial: When It's Good To Add Salt
For your CCNA security exam studies, you need to know when to add SALT, and where! Learn these vital details from Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933.
Cisco CCNA And CCNP Practice Exam Questions: Frame Relay, Uplinkfast, And More!
Sharpen your Cisco exam-taking skills with these complimentary CCNA, CCNP, and Security questions! Topics include frame relay, packet filtering, and Uplinkfast.