How to Factory Reset a Cisco Switch
Three reset methods that actually apply to Catalyst switches - write erase, factory-reset all, and Mode-button recovery - with real Catalyst 9000 output, and the config-register myth retired.
Archive
Latest posts — page 70
How to Check CDP Neighbors on Cisco ASA
The Cisco ASA does not run CDP. Here is why, how to find the ASA from the connected switch with CDP, LLDP and the MAC table, and what to run on the ASA itself.
How to Set IP Address on Cisco Switches
A Cisco switch gets its management IP on an SVI (usually VLAN 1 or a dedicated mgmt VLAN). Here is the config, the default gateway step, and SSH-readiness.
How to Import Files to Cisco Router
Get files onto a Cisco router with TFTP, SCP, or USB. Here is how to set up a TFTP server, use copy tftp: flash:, and avoid the common transfer gotchas.
Resetting Counters on Cisco Switches
Clear interface counters on a Cisco switch with clear counters to reset a baseline before troubleshooting. Here is how to use it safely and verify errors.
How to Audit Switch Ports on Cisco Catalyst Switches
What is on each port, should it be, and is the port enforcing that? A real port audit on a Catalyst switch, including a genuine port-security violation that fired mid-lab.
How to Configure HTTP Method on a Cisco Switch
Enabling HTTP or HTTPS on a Cisco switch takes ip http server, secure-server, AAA, and a trustpoint. Here is the config, the security hardening, and the gotchas.
How to Check a Cisco Switch Warranty by Serial Number
Check a Cisco switch warranty by grabbing the serial from the chassis or show inventory, then running it through the Cisco Serial Number Info Finder.
EtherChannel Fundamentals: Link Aggregation, PAgP vs LACP, and Load Balancing
EtherChannel presents multiple physical links as a single logical interface to the spanning tree algorithm, eliminating blocked ports and enabling true line-rate redundancy.
VLAN Naming, Ranges, and Management Best Practices on Cisco IOS XE
Deep dive into VLAN naming conventions, the difference between standard and extended range VLANs, and best practices for VLAN management and deletion on Cisco Catalyst switches.
Cisco VLAN Interface (SVI) Down: Causes and Fixes
An SVI stuck in up/down means something is wrong with the underlying VLAN — no active ports, a deleted VLAN, or STP blocking every path. Here is how to diagnose and fix every cause.
Top CCNA Network Simulators: Hands-On Review & Guide
Explore the top CCNA network simulators I tested, hands-on insights, pros & cons, and tips to choose the right one for your study lab.