Networking Homework

The OSI reference model divides complex network tasks into 7 manageable subtasks called layers. Layer 2, called the data link layer, is where data frames are translated from raw data that comes from layer 1, the physical layer, into layer 3, the network layer. The switches are in this layer because the signaling throughout the devices in a network for transmitting and receiving data is handled by the switches.

One of the major concerns in a switched network is latency reduction: you want the devices to be able to establish communication with all possible speed, both for purposes of data exchange and for optimum network function. One of the major tools to implement this at Layer 2 is trunking, while a newer approach in Cisco environments is EtherChannel.

Prepare a research paper of 3–5 pages covering the topic of VLANs and trunking. As part of this paper, include the following information:

    What is a VLAN, and why would you implement one?
    What is a VLAN trunk, and what protocol alternatives exist when implementing on in the Cisco environment?
    How do you configure a VLAN trunk?
    How does VLAN trunking work?
    What issues must be addressed in configuring a VLAN trunk, which uses VTP?
    What is meant by VTP pruning?
    How does trunking compare with switch port aggregation using EtherChannel?