This lab focuses on the ability to connect two PCs to create a simple switch-based Ethernet LAN using two workstations. A switch is a networking concentration device sometimes referred to as a multiport bridge. Switches are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. When operating in full-duplex mode, they provide dedicated bandwidth to workstations. Switches eliminate collisions by creating microsegments between ports to which the two workstations are attached. They are appropriate for small to large LANs with moderate to heavy traffic | Cisco Svstems I Lab Building a Switch-based Network Objective Create a simple network with two PCs using a switch Identify the proper cable to connect the PCs to the switch Configure workstation IP address information Test connectivity using the ping command Background Preparation This lab focuses on the ability to connect two PCs to create a simple switch-based Ethernet LAN using two workstations. A switch is a networking concentration device sometimes referred to as a multiport bridge. Switches are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. When operating in fullduplex mode they provide dedicated bandwidth to workstations. Switches eliminate collisions by creating microsegments between ports to which the two workstations are attached. They are appropriate for small to large LANs with moderate to heavy traffic. In addition to the physical and data link connections which are Layers 1 and 2 the computers must also be configured with the correct IP network settings which is Layer 3 so that they can communicate. Since this lab uses a switch a basic Category 5 5e UTP straight-through cable is needed to connect each PC to the switch. This is referred to as a patch cable or horizontal cabling which is used to connect workstations and a typical LAN. Start this lab with the equipment turned off and with cabling disconnected. Work in teams of two with one person per PC. The following resources will be required 1 - 4 CCNA 1 Networking Basics v - Lab Copyright 2003 Cisco Systems Inc. Two workstations with an Ethernet 10 100 NIC installed Ethernet 10BaseT or Fast Ethernet switch Several Ethernet cables which are straight-through and crossover to choose from for connecting the two workstations Step 1 Identify the proper Ethernet cable and connect the two PCs to the switch a. The connection between the two PCs and the switch will be accomplished using a Category 5 or 5e straight-through patch cable. Locate two cables that are long enough to reach from each .
