For network administrators and network engineers who need to understand, configure, design, and troubleshoot, on a variety of networks using Cisco products. After introducing LAN and WAN protocols, the author provides an overview of the technologies, including reference charts and product capabilities and port densities. LAN switching technologies are explored, inc luding VLAN configuration, STP, MLS, queuing techniques, and SLB switching. Static routing and more complex routing scenarios is the topic of the final section, with a chapter on securing Cisco routers with access lists. The appendix contains an index of the 540 commands covered in the book, including descriptions, syntax, and modes of operation. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Editorial Reviews
From Library Journal
Since Cisco manufactures much of the hardware underlying both corporate LANs and the Internet, network professionals appreciate material covering Cisco basics. Practical Studies targets network professionals studying for their Cisco Certification Network Assistant (CCNA) exam, focusing mostly on the newer performance-based testing section. It provides hands-on information about configuring and troubleshooting a complex network using Cisco devices. Although the recommended lab simulation equipment is pricey, the book can be used as a study guide on its own; step-by-step resolutions of real-world scenarios are helpful both as study aids and as practice for network professionals. Complete Reference is a professional-level source on configuring and troubleshooting Cisco devices. Useful features include charts on product characteristics/capabilities and an extensive appendix that summarizes Cisco commands and refers back to lengthier chapter explanations. Both titles are recommended for larger libraries where advanced networking titles circulate. Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From the Author
Cisco: The Complete Reference was a heck of an ambitious title for a first release. The book is around 1300 pages, with 28 Chapters covering several different aspects of Cisco gear, but mostly concentrating on routing and switching.
The goal of the book was to make Cisco technologies accessible to networking professionals who may be focussed on other technologies, but interact with Cisco (or other routing and switching manufacturers) gear from time to time.
All in all, I am very happy with the way the book turned out, as well as the support I was given by the good people at McGraw Hill. I think that the book, while not the “end all and be all” of Cisco, covers enough material to make it an excellent routing and switching, general networking and IOS reference (heck, I’ve already used it myself). With around 550 IOS commands covered, there shouldn’t be too much you can’t find a reference to, and all major internal IP routing protocols are covered in detail. In addition, the book includes chapters on layer 2, 3, and 4 LAN switching, covering the switching side of the equation pretty well too. Finally, I included guides to nearly every product Cisco makes, complete with port densities and speeds, to make selecting the right product for the job a bit easier.
Hopefully, you’ll enjoy reading the book as much as I enjoyed writing it, and I hope it will earn a spot in your reference library for years to come.
From the Back Cover
The Definitive Reference for Mastering Cisco Technology
Get up to speed on Cisco-related hardware and technology with this dual-purpose resource. Providing you with both technical background as well as on-the-job information–including configuration notes and hands-on commands–this useful reference is truly comprehensive in coverage. From the OSI model and networking basics to LAN/WAN switching and security protocols, you’ll find details on exactly the topics you need. Including tips for troubleshooting and a handy IOS command reference, this book will help you set up your network and keep it running at peak performance. If you’re working with Cisco equipment and technology, you’ll want this comprehensive book within easy reach.
Configure frame-relay connections accurately and effectively
Understand the intricacies of Ethernet–the most prevalent LAN technology
Learn how ATM devices sustain a wide variety of traffic types
Find out about the different types of ISDN connections and their use in common environments
Get details on the TCP/IP suite–including advanced topics such as subnetting, VLSM, CIDR, NAT, and port mapping
Learn how the protocols in the IPX/SPX suite function
Discover shortcuts to IOS configuration and examine common IOS commands
Explore specialized routing and switching protocols–RIP, OSPF, access lists, and many others
About the Author
Brian Hill is currently the Lead Technology Architect and Senior Technical Trainer for TechTrain USA, a fast-growing training company. He holds certifications in the following areas including Cisco CCNP, Cisco CCNA, MCSE+I (NT 4.0), MCSE (Windows 2000).