CCNA Interview Questions on Switch Configuration

Switch configuration is a foundational skill every network professional must master to succeed in a CCNA interview. Cisco switches are used extensively in enterprise networks due to their reliability, flexibility, and advanced feature set. This article presents a detailed explanation of common switch-related questions often asked in interviews. Understanding these questions not only helps in acing the CCNA certification exam but also builds a strong base for handling real-world network setups and troubleshooting scenarios.

Understanding virtual local area networks

A virtual local area network, commonly known as a VLAN, allows network administrators to create multiple logical networks within a single physical network. This segmentation helps isolate traffic and enhances security. Devices assigned to the same VLAN can communicate as though they are on the same physical switch, even if they are located in different parts of a building or across different switches.

VLANs are crucial in managing broadcast domains. Without VLANs, all devices in a LAN receive broadcast messages, which can lead to excessive traffic. By creating VLANs, you reduce the scope of broadcasts, improve performance, and make the network easier to manage.

In interview settings, you might be asked to explain the role of VLANs, how they reduce network congestion, or why they are beneficial in enterprise environments.

Configuring a vlan on a switch

To set up a VLAN on a switch, certain steps must be followed. Although interviewers typically don’t expect exact syntax, they will look for your understanding of the process.

Start by entering the global configuration mode on the switch. Then, define a VLAN using its numerical identifier. You can also assign a name to make identification easier. Afterward, assign switch ports to that VLAN and ensure the port mode is set to access.

Each access port can belong to only one VLAN. When a device connects to this port, it becomes part of the assigned VLAN. This is how departments, like sales or HR, can be isolated on separate logical networks while still using the same physical hardware.

Purpose of trunk ports and the switchport mode trunk command

A trunk port is used to carry traffic for multiple VLANs across network devices. When two switches need to exchange traffic from various VLANs, trunking ensures the VLAN tags are preserved and recognized on the receiving switch.

The command to configure a trunk port sets the interface to carry tagged traffic. Without this configuration, only untagged traffic (typically VLAN 1) would pass, limiting inter-VLAN communication. Trunk ports use protocols like IEEE 802.1Q to tag Ethernet frames with VLAN information.

Interviewers often ask candidates to describe when trunking is necessary and how it’s different from access ports. A clear answer involves explaining that trunks are needed for VLAN propagation between switches, routers, or other network devices.

Verifying vlan configurations

A critical part of switch configuration is validation. Using verification commands helps identify issues early and confirm that settings have been applied correctly. You might be asked in an interview what commands you would use to check VLAN configurations.

Some common checks include displaying a summary of all VLANs and the ports assigned to them, viewing specific VLAN details, or checking port modes and their associated VLANs. These outputs help you quickly determine if a port is in the wrong VLAN, if a VLAN is missing, or if there’s a trunk misconfiguration.

Knowing these verification methods not only demonstrates technical skill but also showcases a proactive troubleshooting mindset.

vlan trunking protocol and its role

VLAN Trunking Protocol, or VTP, is designed to simplify VLAN management across large networks. Instead of configuring VLANs manually on each switch, VTP allows VLAN information to be shared automatically. When one switch is configured as a VTP server, changes made to its VLAN database are distributed to other switches acting as clients.

This centralized control reduces administrative overhead and helps ensure VLAN consistency across the network. In an interview, candidates should be able to describe the different modes of VTP (server, client, transparent) and explain how it streamlines VLAN deployment.

Troubleshooting vlan issues

Being able to troubleshoot VLAN issues is a key competency for any network professional. When asked how you would resolve VLAN-related problems, you should describe a structured approach.

Start by checking if the VLAN exists on the switch. Then, confirm that interfaces are assigned to the correct VLAN and that they are active. Next, verify trunking on inter-switch links to ensure VLANs are being passed properly. Use network testing tools like ping to validate end-to-end connectivity across VLANs.

Understanding the difference between Layer 2 and Layer 3 issues is also important. For example, two devices in different VLANs cannot communicate unless routing is configured. A common mistake is assuming physical connectivity guarantees communication, which isn’t true when VLANs are involved.

Distinguishing access ports from trunk ports

An access port is a switch port assigned to a single VLAN. It connects end devices such as PCs, printers, or phones. All traffic entering or leaving the port is untagged, and the switch associates it with the assigned VLAN.

Trunk ports, on the other hand, are used to carry traffic from multiple VLANs across switches. Frames sent over a trunk port are tagged with VLAN identifiers so the receiving switch can handle them appropriately.

In an interview, be ready to compare access and trunk ports, describe when each is used, and explain why trunking is critical in multi-switch environments.

Setting up an access port

To configure a port as an access port, identify the desired interface and assign it to the correct VLAN. Then set its mode to access. This ensures the port doesn’t negotiate trunking and that it will only transmit traffic for its assigned VLAN.

This configuration is essential for devices like desktop computers that only need to communicate within one VLAN. Understanding access port configuration is fundamental for deploying VLANs effectively.

Viewing interface statuses

Knowing how to check the operational status of interfaces is critical for diagnosing problems. One of the most common commands provides a list of all switch interfaces, their assigned VLANs, and whether they are up or down.

This output allows you to quickly identify which ports are active, whether they are in the correct VLAN, and whether any are in an error-disabled state. Interviewers often include such questions to test both technical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.

Configuring rapid spanning tree protocol

Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) provides faster convergence than traditional STP. In environments where network redundancy is needed, RSTP ensures that loops are prevented without extended downtimes during topology changes.

To enable RSTP, switches must be configured to operate in rapid spanning tree mode. This involves setting the spanning tree mode and ensuring compatibility across the switch fabric.

Interviewers may ask about RSTP advantages, how it differs from standard STP, and what network scenarios require its use.

Trunk encapsulation methods

Trunk links use tagging protocols to identify which VLAN a frame belongs to. One widely used encapsulation method is IEEE 802.1Q. In some switches, you may need to explicitly define the encapsulation type on a trunk port.

Explaining encapsulation shows a deeper understanding of how VLANs are maintained across trunk links. This knowledge is useful for dealing with interoperability between different networking devices or vendors.

Enabling inter-vlan routing

By default, devices in different VLANs cannot communicate. Inter-VLAN routing enables communication between them by using Layer 3 interfaces. On Layer 3 switches, this is done by creating VLAN interfaces, also known as switch virtual interfaces (SVIs), and assigning them IP addresses.

Each VLAN interface acts like a default gateway for the devices in that VLAN. As traffic flows between VLANs, it is routed using these SVIs. In a routed environment, this configuration is essential for enabling services like file sharing and application access across departments.

Role of port security

Port security helps protect the network by limiting the number and type of devices that can connect to a switch port. It allows administrators to control which MAC addresses are allowed on each port and how violations are handled.

This is especially useful in environments where physical security is limited, such as public areas or shared workspaces. If an unauthorized device attempts to connect, the port can be shut down, or traffic can be restricted depending on the configured violation mode.

Expect interview questions about port security to test your understanding of network access control at the hardware level.

Applying port security settings

To implement port security, access the relevant interface and enable the feature. Set a maximum number of MAC addresses that can be learned, and choose a violation response. You can also manually assign specific MAC addresses to the port for even stricter control.

This prevents MAC address flooding attacks and unauthorized device connections, making it a valuable tool in securing enterprise networks.

verifying port security

You can check port security status to see which MAC addresses are learned, whether any violations occurred, and how each interface is configured. This is helpful in monitoring and auditing port activity.

Knowing how to interpret this data is crucial for detecting security issues, diagnosing connectivity problems, and ensuring compliance with security policies.

Comparing static and dynamic vlans

In static VLANs, switch ports are manually assigned to a VLAN. This method is straightforward and easy to manage for small to medium-sized networks. Dynamic VLANs, by contrast, use a VLAN Management Policy Server to assign VLANs based on the MAC address of the connected device.

Dynamic VLANs offer scalability and automation, particularly in environments where devices frequently move. However, they require additional infrastructure and planning.

Understanding the trade-offs between static and dynamic VLANs is important when designing a network that balances control, flexibility, and cost.

Switch configuration is a vital topic for both CCNA certification and real-world network management. Interviewers often focus on this area to assess how well candidates understand foundational networking concepts and their ability to apply them in practical scenarios.

From VLAN creation and trunking to port security and inter-VLAN routing, the knowledge covered here provides a strong base for further exploration. Mastery of these topics not only improves your chances of passing the CCNA exam but also prepares you for configuring and securing enterprise networks with confidence.

Stay prepared to explain concepts clearly, walk through configuration processes, and offer troubleshooting strategies. The better you understand switch configuration, the more effectively you’ll perform in interviews and on the job.

Advanced Switch Configuration Concepts for CCNA Interviews

Understanding the basics of switch configuration is a solid starting point, but CCNA interviews often go beyond foundational topics. Candidates are frequently expected to demonstrate deeper technical knowledge, particularly when it comes to advanced switch features, troubleshooting techniques, and real-world configuration scenarios. This continuation delves into higher-level switch configuration concepts, often covered in CCNA interviews, and explores their practical applications in modern networks.

Working with switch virtual interfaces for inter-vlan routing

A Switch Virtual Interface (SVI) is a logical Layer 3 interface assigned to a VLAN on a Layer 3 switch. SVIs are commonly used to enable inter-VLAN routing without requiring an external router.

For instance, if VLAN 10 is assigned to the sales department and VLAN 20 to the finance department, devices in each VLAN cannot communicate unless inter-VLAN routing is configured. By creating SVIs for each VLAN and assigning appropriate IP addresses, communication between these VLANs becomes possible.

This setup is typical in enterprise environments using multilayer switches. In interviews, candidates might be asked to explain how SVIs function, how they differ from physical router interfaces, and how routing is handled within the switch itself.

Configuring native vlan on trunk ports

The native VLAN is the VLAN associated with untagged traffic on a trunk port. In 802.1Q trunking, all VLAN traffic is tagged except for the native VLAN. The receiving switch assumes untagged frames belong to the native VLAN.

Misconfigurations in native VLAN settings can lead to security vulnerabilities or communication breakdowns between switches. It’s important that both ends of a trunk link have the same native VLAN configured to avoid issues like VLAN hopping attacks.

An interviewer might ask what the default native VLAN is, how to change it, and why it’s important to match the configuration on both sides of the trunk.

Loop prevention and spanning tree protocol

Switches by default flood unknown unicast, broadcast, and multicast traffic. If redundant links are present and no loop prevention protocol is enabled, this can result in broadcast storms and network congestion. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is used to detect and eliminate loops in Layer 2 networks by blocking some paths while allowing others to remain active.

Candidates should understand how STP calculates the best path using bridge IDs and port costs, and how roles such as root bridge, designated port, and blocking port come into play. In real-world troubleshooting, recognizing STP states (listening, learning, forwarding, and blocking) can help diagnose connectivity issues.

Modern Cisco switches support Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), which converges much faster than traditional STP. Interviewers may ask for comparisons between STP, RSTP, and Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP), as well as practical use cases.

Using etherchannel for link aggregation

EtherChannel allows multiple physical links between switches to be bundled into a single logical link. This provides redundancy and increased bandwidth without creating Layer 2 loops.

Interviewers often test whether candidates know how EtherChannel operates, how load balancing is handled, and what protocols (such as PAgP and LACP) are used to negotiate channel formation. Knowing the difference between static (manual) and dynamic EtherChannel setups is also beneficial.

EtherChannel is especially valuable in environments with high throughput demands or where high availability is critical.

Understanding portfast, bpduguard, and loop guard

PortFast is a feature that allows a switch port to bypass STP’s listening and learning states, moving directly to forwarding mode. This is useful for ports connected to end-user devices, where STP delays are unnecessary.

BPDU Guard is often used in combination with PortFast. If a PortFast-enabled port receives a Bridge Protocol Data Unit (BPDU), it indicates that a switch or bridge is connected, which could introduce loops. BPDU Guard disables the port to protect the network.

Loop Guard is used to prevent a blocking port from becoming active if BPDUs stop being received. Without it, STP might mistakenly assume that the path is down and allow traffic, which could create a loop.

In interviews, candidates should be able to describe when and where these features are used and the problems they help avoid.

Mac address table and switching process

Switches build a MAC address table by learning the source MAC addresses of incoming frames. This table maps MAC addresses to switch ports, allowing the switch to forward traffic efficiently.

A typical interview question might ask how switches handle unknown unicast frames or how the table is updated. Candidates may also be asked how to view or clear the MAC address table and what happens when it becomes full.

An understanding of how Layer 2 forwarding works is fundamental for identifying issues like MAC address flapping, table overflows, or failed port assignments.

Storm control and traffic policing

Broadcast storms can cripple a network by overwhelming bandwidth and switch resources. Storm control is a feature that monitors traffic levels on a port and takes action when thresholds are exceeded.

Candidates should be able to describe how storm control can protect a network from broadcast, multicast, and unicast floods. In some cases, storm control can shut down a port or drop excessive traffic to maintain performance.

Traffic policing, on the other hand, is used to enforce bandwidth limits on a per-port basis. It’s important in scenarios where QoS (Quality of Service) or bandwidth reservation policies are in place.

Knowing how to use these tools helps in maintaining stable and efficient network operations.

Differences between cut-through and store-and-forward switching

Cut-through switching starts forwarding a frame as soon as the destination MAC address is read, minimizing latency. Store-and-forward switching waits until the entire frame is received and verified before forwarding it, offering better error checking.

While cut-through provides lower latency, it can also forward corrupted frames. Store-and-forward ensures error-free transmission but introduces some delay.

Interviewers may ask which method is used by Cisco switches by default (typically store-and-forward) and when one is preferred over the other.

Troubleshooting duplex and speed mismatches

Mismatched duplex and speed settings are common causes of network performance problems. If one device is set to full duplex and the other to half duplex, collisions may occur, leading to slow performance and high error rates.

Candidates should understand how to verify interface speed and duplex settings, recognize signs of a mismatch, and implement consistent configurations across devices. Auto-negotiation should also be discussed, along with situations where manual configuration might be necessary.

Effective troubleshooting in these cases demonstrates strong Layer 1 and Layer 2 diagnostic skills.

Dynamic arp inspection and dhcp snooping

Security features such as Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) and DHCP Snooping are critical in preventing common Layer 2 attacks. DHCP Snooping filters DHCP messages from untrusted sources and builds a database of valid IP-MAC bindings.

DAI uses this database to validate ARP packets on the network. If an ARP packet does not match an entry in the DHCP Snooping database, it is considered invalid and dropped. This prevents ARP spoofing and man-in-the-middle attacks.

Candidates should be familiar with the concepts and configuration steps of these features. Interviewers might also pose scenarios requiring the identification and mitigation of such threats.

Working with voice vlans

Voice VLANs are used in environments with IP phones. They allow voice traffic to be separated from data traffic, enabling better prioritization and quality of service.

A switch port connected to an IP phone typically carries both voice and data traffic. The phone tags the voice traffic with a specific VLAN ID, while the data traffic from a connected computer remains untagged or in a different VLAN.

Interview questions may ask about how to configure a port to support both devices and how to ensure that QoS policies are applied correctly.

Using qos to prioritize traffic

Quality of Service (QoS) is used to prioritize specific types of traffic, such as voice and video, which are sensitive to latency and jitter. On a switch, QoS can be implemented through mechanisms like traffic classification, marking, queuing, and congestion avoidance.

Candidates should understand the purpose of QoS and how it improves the performance of critical applications. Interviewers might ask about trust boundaries, DSCP values, or how to configure a switch to treat high-priority traffic differently from best-effort traffic.

While QoS implementation can be complex, knowing the fundamentals and basic configuration principles is essential for CCNA-level candidates.

Stackwise and switch stacking

StackWise is a Cisco technology that allows multiple physical switches to operate as a single logical switch. This enables unified configuration and management, redundancy, and increased scalability.

A common question is how StackWise improves network design and what happens if the master switch fails. In a stacked configuration, the failure of a member switch does not bring down the network. The master switch handles control-plane functions, and another switch in the stack can assume this role if needed.

Understanding stacking concepts helps candidates explain modern enterprise switch architectures and high availability features.

Secure shell access and switch management

Secure management access to switches is important in production environments. SSH (Secure Shell) provides encrypted remote access, protecting credentials and data in transit.

Candidates may be asked how to configure a switch to support SSH, the differences between SSH and Telnet, and best practices for securing administrative access. Topics such as strong passwords, limiting access via ACLs, and setting privilege levels are also common in interviews.

Secure management practices demonstrate professionalism and awareness of real-world security concerns.

Remote logging and monitoring with syslog and snmp

Monitoring switch activity is critical for maintenance and security. Syslog allows a switch to send logging information to a centralized server for review and archival. SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) enables remote monitoring and management of devices.

Candidates should understand how these protocols work, the importance of log levels, and how to configure a switch to send alerts. Practical knowledge of SNMP communities, MIBs, and traps can further showcase advanced monitoring skills.

Mastering advanced switch configuration topics is crucial for anyone preparing for a CCNA interview or looking to work in enterprise networking environments. From inter-VLAN routing and trunking details to loop prevention and security measures, the depth of understanding expected goes beyond simple setups.

Candidates who can explain advanced features such as EtherChannel, BPDU Guard, and DHCP Snooping—and who can also troubleshoot complex issues—stand out in interviews and in professional settings. Employers value those who not only know how to configure a switch but also why specific configurations are used and how to adapt them to dynamic network needs.

By continuing to build on foundational knowledge and diving into more sophisticated areas of switch configuration, aspiring networking professionals position themselves for success in both certification and

Introduction To Switch Configuration

Switches are the backbone of local area networks (LANs), allowing communication between devices within the same network. When preparing for the CCNA certification or a networking job interview, a solid understanding of switch configuration is critical. Cisco switches, widely used across the industry, offer rich functionalities such as VLANs, trunking, port security, and STP. This article covers essential CCNA-level switch configuration interview questions, ensuring you’re well-equipped to tackle any technical discussion confidently.

What Is The Role Of A Switch In A Network?

A switch is a networking device used to connect devices within a LAN. Unlike hubs, which broadcast traffic to all connected devices, switches intelligently forward frames to the specific destination MAC address, improving efficiency and reducing collisions.

Switches operate at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model, using MAC addresses to forward traffic. Some managed switches also offer Layer 3 functionality, enabling routing capabilities between VLANs.

What Are VLANs And Why Are They Used?

VLANs, or Virtual Local Area Networks, allow logical segmentation of a network, even if the devices are connected to the same physical switch. By assigning ports to different VLANs, network administrators can:

• Isolate sensitive traffic (e.g., Finance and HR departments)
  
  
• Improve network performance by limiting broadcast domains
  
  
• Enhance security and management flexibility

In interviews, it’s important to mention that VLANs operate at Layer 2 but require a Layer 3 device, like a router or Layer 3 switch, for inter-VLAN communication.

How Do You Create A VLAN On A Cisco Switch?

To create a VLAN on a Cisco switch, follow these steps in configuration mode:

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Switch# configure terminal

Switch(config)# vlan 10

Switch(config-vlan)# name HR

Switch(config-vlan)# exit

To assign a port to the VLAN:

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Switch(config)# interface fastethernet 0/1

Switch(config-if)# switchport mode access

Switch(config-if)# switchport access vlan 10

Switch(config-if)# exit

This configuration creates VLAN 10, names it HR, and assigns port FastEthernet 0/1 to it.

What Is The Difference Between Access And Trunk Ports?

Access ports are used to connect end devices like computers and printers and carry traffic for a single VLAN. Trunk ports, on the other hand, carry traffic for multiple VLANs between switches or from switch to router.

Interviewers often ask for configuration differences. For example:

Access port:

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Switch(config-if)# switchport mode access

Switch(config-if)# switchport access vlan 20

Trunk port:

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Switch(config-if)# switchport mode trunk

Switch(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20

How Does Inter-VLAN Routing Work?

Since VLANs create separate broadcast domains, devices in different VLANs cannot communicate without routing. Inter-VLAN routing is done via:

• Router-on-a-stick: A router with a sub-interface for each VLAN
  
  
• Layer 3 switch with routing enabled
  
  

For example, using a router-on-a-stick:

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interface FastEthernet0/0.10

 encapsulation dot1Q 10

 ip address 192.168.10.1 255.255.255.0

Each sub-interface handles routing for its assigned VLAN.

What Is The Native VLAN?

The native VLAN is the VLAN that does not get tagged with IEEE 802.1Q when traversing a trunk link. By default, VLAN 1 is the native VLAN on Cisco switches.

Interview tip: Mismatched native VLANs on either end of a trunk can cause security issues or network problems. Always ensure consistency.

What Is The Purpose Of The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)?

STP prevents Layer 2 loops in a network by detecting redundant links and placing some ports in a blocking state. Without STP, redundant paths could result in broadcast storms, MAC table instability, and multiple frame copies.

Key STP states include:

• Blocking
  
  
• Listening
  
  
• Learning
  
  
• Forwarding
  

STP uses Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs) to elect a root bridge and calculate the best path through the network.

What Is Port Security And How Is It Configured?

Port security is a feature that restricts access to a switch port based on MAC address. It prevents unauthorized devices from connecting to the network.

To configure:

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Switch(config)# interface fastethernet 0/2

Switch(config-if)# switchport mode access

Switch(config-if)# switchport port-security

Switch(config-if)# switchport port-security maximum 1

Switch(config-if)# switchport port-security mac-address sticky

Switch(config-if)# switchport port-security violation shutdown

This configuration allows only one device (learned dynamically via sticky) and shuts down the port on violation.

What Are Sticky MAC Addresses?

Sticky MAC addresses are dynamically learned MAC addresses that are added to the running configuration. They remain even after a reboot if saved to the startup config.

This provides flexibility with security since you don’t need to manually configure MAC addresses for every port.

How Do You Configure A Trunk Link Between Two Switches?

To allow VLAN traffic between switches:

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Switch(config)# interface fastethernet 0/24

Switch(config-if)# switchport mode trunk

Switch(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20

Both sides of the trunk must match configuration settings, including allowed VLANs and native VLAN.

What Is The Difference Between Static And Dynamic VLANs?

• Static VLANs: Manually assigned to switch ports
  
  
• Dynamic VLANs: Automatically assigned using a VMPS (VLAN Management Policy Server)
  

Dynamic VLANs are rare in modern networks and are mostly replaced by more flexible solutions like 802.1X authentication with VLAN assignment.

How Does A Switch Learn MAC Addresses?

Switches maintain a MAC address table by examining the source MAC address of incoming frames. This table maps MAC addresses to ports. If a destination MAC is unknown, the frame is flooded to all ports in the same VLAN.

Over time, this learning helps switches efficiently forward traffic only to the correct port.

What Are The Different Switch Port Modes?

Cisco switches support several port modes:

• Access: For end devices, supports one VLAN
  
  
• Trunk: Carries multiple VLANs
  
  
• Dynamic desirable: Actively negotiates trunking
  
  
• Dynamic auto: Passively waits to become trunk if the other end requests

Interviewers may test your ability to resolve mismatches between port modes, which can prevent trunk formation.

What Is VTP And How Does It Work?

VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) allows VLAN information to be propagated across switches in the same domain.

Modes:

• Server: Can create, delete, and send VLAN info
  
  
• Client: Cannot modify VLANs, only receives updates
  
  
• Transparent: Forwards VTP advertisements but does not process them
  

VTP helps simplify VLAN management but can be risky if misconfigured. Always verify domain name and revision numbers.

How Can You Secure A Switch?

Common security practices include:

• Disable unused ports
  
  
• Use port security
  
  
• Set login banners and passwords
  
  
• Enable SSH instead of Telnet
  
  
• Configure storm control
  
  
• Use BPDU Guard and Root Guard

These measures reduce unauthorized access and improve stability.

What Is The Purpose Of The Switchport Nonegotiate Command?

This command disables DTP (Dynamic Trunking Protocol) on a trunk port. It is used when you want to statically configure trunking and avoid unwanted negotiation:

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Switch(config-if)# switchport mode trunk

Switch(config-if)# switchport nonegotiate

It’s useful when connecting to devices that don’t support DTP, such as routers or non-Cisco switches.

What Happens If Two Ports On The Same Switch Are Connected?

This creates a Layer 2 loop, which can bring down the network due to broadcast storms. STP would detect this and block one of the ports to break the loop.

Without STP, this misconfiguration leads to a denial of service and severely impacts network performance.

How Do You Backup And Restore A Switch Configuration?

To backup:

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copy running-config tftp

To restore:

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copy tftp running-config

Candidates should also mention the importance of saving to the startup configuration using copy running-config startup-config.

Conclusion

Switch configuration forms the foundation of enterprise networking, especially at the CCNA level. This overview of common switch-related interview questions should give candidates the confidence to answer both theoretical and practical queries. Whether it’s VLANs, STP, port security, or inter-VLAN routing, understanding these concepts is crucial for real-world networking scenarios. The next articles in this series will continue diving deeper into routing protocols and troubleshooting strategies to prepare you thoroughly for your CCNA journey.