Icnd2, questions?

Beany

Hi,

I'm using the 2950 switches for my home lab, I'm using a crossover cable for connecting them and it automatically makes that port a trunk port but following the Cbt Nuggets video, Jeremy manually sets up the trunk port n doesn't use a crossover cable, why is that? Is it because the switches I'm using are slightly older?

Also, I've recently started studying for the icnd2, not sure if I'll be completed before the 30th Sept. If I haven't, what will happen? Will I need re-study under the new exam guidance? Will my study of the old icnd2 be any use?

Thanks

Ivanjam

The 2950 ethernet ports default to dynamic desirable so they will auto negotiate a trunk when connected together: Catalyst 2950 Desktop Switch Software Configuration Guide, 12.1(6)EA2c - Configuring VLANs* [Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series Switches] - Cisco Systems

You will have to study for the new exam but the material you learned for the old ICND2 should go a long way in covering the new objectives.

pamccabe

Also, the switches do not need a cross-over cable to establish a connection. The switches have a feature called AUTO-MDIX. It can sense the cable pin out and adjust it. The Cisco answer is to use a cross-over when connecting like devices, in reality, it doesn't matter.

gregorio323

Although this is true. I don't think the Cisco 2950 switches support Auto-MDIX

pamccabe

I just double-checked and you are correct gregorio. Switch 2940 and 2960 has it, but not the 2950. I stand corrected.

iamme4eva

I can back that up...when I was doing a lab a few weeks ago I ran out of cross-over cables and thought I'd get away with it as I had loads of straight through's. The 2950's were having none of it. The 3550's don't support it either. I had to resort to chopping some ends off and re-terminating them.