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Q
What is a Cisco Switch?
A
A Cisco Switch is a network device that connects, manages, and secures multiple Ethernet devices within a LAN, optimizing traffic flow and enhancing performance.
Q
What are the main types of Cisco Switches?
A
Cisco Switches include unmanaged, smart, and fully managed models, as well as the Catalyst, Nexus, and Meraki series for enterprise, data center, and cloud-managed deployments.
Q
How do I choose the right Cisco Switch for my network?
A
Select based on port count, throughput, PoE requirements, management features, form factor, and intended use—edge access, distribution, core, or data center.
Q
What is the difference between managed and unmanaged Cisco Switches?
A
Managed switches provide advanced features like VLANs, QoS, SNMP monitoring, and security policies, while unmanaged switches offer plug-and-play connectivity with no configuration.
Q
Can Cisco Switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
A
Yes, many Cisco Switch models support PoE and PoE+ to power IP phones, cameras, and access points directly over Ethernet cables.
Q
How does Cisco Switch stacking work?
A
Stacking links multiple switches via a high-speed backbone, enabling single-point management, increased port density, and seamless failover.
Q
What are the key features of Cisco Catalyst switches?
A
Catalyst switches offer advanced security, automation with Cisco DNA Center, integrated analytics, high availability, and flexible deployment options.
Q
How do I configure VLANs on a Cisco Switch?
A
Use the IOS CLI: enter interface configuration mode, apply 'switchport mode access', assign 'switchport access vlan <ID>', then save with 'write memory'.
Q
How do I update the IOS on a Cisco Switch?
A
Download the IOS image from Cisco, copy it to the switch via TFTP or USB, set the boot variable, and reload to apply the new image.
Q
How can I secure my Cisco Switch?
A
Implement port security, enable 802.1X authentication, apply ACLs, use secure management protocols (SSH, SNMPv3), and regularly update IOS.
Q
What is Cisco StackWise technology?
A
StackWise aggregates multiple Catalyst switches into a single logical unit with a unified control plane, enhancing scalability and redundancy.
Q
How many ports do Cisco Switches have?
A
Cisco Switch port counts range from 8 to 48 ports per unit, with modular chassis supporting hundreds of ports in enterprise data centers.
Q
How do I monitor performance on a Cisco Switch?
A
Use SNMP, NetFlow, Cisco DNA Center, or Embedded Event Manager (EEM) to track traffic, CPU, memory, and port utilization in real time.
Q
What licensing options are available for Cisco Switches?
A
Cisco offers Network Essentials and Advantage licenses for Catalyst switches, unlocking features like advanced security, automation, and analytics.
Q
What warranty and support does Cisco offer for switches?
A
Cisco provides a limited lifetime warranty on most switches, plus optional SMARTnet support for 24/7 technical assistance, software updates, and next-business-day hardware replacement.
Q
How do I troubleshoot port connectivity issues on a Cisco Switch?
A
Verify link status with 'show interfaces status', check VLAN assignments, test cables, examine error counters with 'show interfaces', and review spanning-tree status.
Q
How energy efficient are Cisco Switches?
A
Cisco switches incorporate Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), variable speed fans, and power-optimizing PoE to reduce consumption and operational costs.
