CCNP Switching Practice Exam

About the CCNP Switching Exam

The CCNP Switching exam is part of the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification track and focuses on advanced switching techniques and technologies. This exam evaluates candidates' knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex switched networks using Cisco devices and technologies. Topics covered include VLANs, spanning tree protocols, EtherChannel, layer 3 switching, high availability, and network security.

Skills Required:

• Advanced Switching Technologies: Proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting advanced switching features such as VLANs, trunking, VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol), and EtherChannel.
• Spanning Tree Protocols: Understanding of spanning tree protocols (STP, RSTP, and MSTP) and their role in preventing network loops and ensuring network redundancy.
• Layer 3 Switching: Knowledge of layer 3 switching concepts, including routing between VLANs, SVIs (Switched Virtual Interfaces), and inter-VLAN routing.
• High Availability: Familiarity with techniques for achieving high availability in switched networks, such as redundancy, load balancing, and network resiliency.
• Network Security: Understanding of network security principles and best practices, including port security, VLAN ACLs (Access Control Lists), DHCP snooping, and dynamic ARP inspection.
• Troubleshooting Switched Networks: Skill in diagnosing and resolving common issues and performance problems in switched networks, using troubleshooting methodologies and tools.

Who Should Take the Exam:

The CCNP Switching exam is suitable for:

• Network engineers, administrators, and technicians responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex switched networks using Cisco devices.
• IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in networking and obtain the CCNP certification as a validation of their skills and expertise.
• Individuals preparing for roles such as network architect, network consultant, or senior network engineer that require in-depth knowledge of switching technologies and solutions.
• Candidates aiming to enhance their proficiency in Cisco switching technologies and demonstrate their ability to design and troubleshoot scalable and resilient switched networks.

Detailed Course Outline:

The CCNP Switching Exam covers the following topics -

Module 1: Advanced Switching Concepts:

• VLANs and Trunking
• VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol)
• EtherChannel Configuration
• Layer 2 QoS (Quality of Service)

Module 2: Spanning Tree Protocols:

• STP (Spanning Tree Protocol)
• RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol)
• MSTP (Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol)
• STP Configuration and Troubleshooting

Module 3: Layer 3 Switching:

• Inter-VLAN Routing
• SVIs (Switched Virtual Interfaces)
• Layer 3 EtherChannel
• Routing Protocols on Layer 3 Switches

Module 4: High Availability:

• Redundancy and Load Balancing
• HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol)
• VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol)
• GLBP (Gateway Load Balancing Protocol)

Module 5: Network Security:

• Port Security
• VLAN ACLs (Access Control Lists)
• DHCP Snooping and DAI (Dynamic ARP Inspection)
• Switch Security Best Practices

Module 6: Troubleshooting Switched Networks:

• Troubleshooting Methodologies
• Common Switching Issues and Solutions
• Troubleshooting Tools and Commands
• Hands-on Labs and Case Studies

Module 7: Exam Preparation and Review:

• Review of Key Concepts and Technologies
• Practice Exams and Sample Questions
• Test-Taking Strategies and Tips
• Guidance on Exam Readiness