Course Descriptions

CPT 217 - LAN Switching

3 Credits

This course corresponds to the third semester of the Cisco Networking Academy Exploration track and provides a comprehensive, theoretical, and practical approach to learning the technologies and protocols needed to design and implement a converged switched network. Students learn about the hierarchical network design model and how to select devices for each layer.

The course explains how to configure a switch for basic functionality and how to implement Virtual LANs (VLAN), VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP), and Inter-VLAN routing in a converged network. The different implementations of Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) in a converged network are presented, and students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to implement a wireless local-area network (WLAN) in a small-to-medium network.

Prerequisite: CPT 215

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Utilize standard troubleshooting skills to identify and correct common network problems at layers 1, 2, 3, and 7 using a layered model approach
2. Explain the technology and media access control method for Ethernet networks
3. Explain basic switching concepts and the operation of managed switches
4. Perform and verify initial switch configuration tasks including remote access management tools
5. Describe enhanced switching technologies such as VLANs, VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP), Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), Per-VLAN Spanning Tree Protocol (PVSTP), and IEEE 802. 1q
6. Describe how VLANs create logically separate networks and how routing occurs between them
7. Configure, verify, and troubleshoot VLANs, trunking on managed switches, interVLAN routing, VTP, and RSTP
8. Identify, prescribe, and resolve common switched network media issues, configuration issues, autonegotiation, and switch hardware failures
9. Identify and describe the purpose of the components in a small wireless network, such as Service Set Identification (SSID), Basic Service Set (BSS), and Extended Service Set (ESS)
10. Identify basic configuration parameters on a wireless network to ensure that devices connect to the correct access points

Course Offered Fall, Spring

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Fall Semester 2024
Intersession 2025
Spring Semester 2025