Chapter 4. Switch Configuration

This chapter covers the following topics that you need to master for the CCNP BCMSN exam:

• Switch Management This section describes the software operating systems that are available on Cisco Catalyst switches, along with the command-line interface (CLI) that is used for configuration and troubleshooting. In addition, this section covers the basic Catalyst switch configuration and administration commands and techniques for interswitch communication.

• Switch File Management This section explains the various files and file systems used in a Catalyst switch, along with the commands necessary to manage them.

• Troubleshooting from the Operating System This section presents a brief overview of the commands that you can use to verify or troubleshoot basic switch operation.

Chapter 3, "Switch Operation," covers the topic of switch operation from the ground up. This chapter adds to that by reviewing the Catalyst operating systemsthe mechanisms by which you can connect to a switch to configure and monitor how it works. Catalyst file systems are explained, along with the files needed to make a switch functional.

This chapter also covers the configuration steps for switch management. Management functions include the methods used to connect to a switch, how to configure switch identification, user authentication, interswitch communication, and file management. A brief overview of useful troubleshooting commands also is given.