Set Interface Speed, Duplex and Description on a Cisco Switch / Router

Set Interface Speed, Duplex and Description on a Cisco Switch / Router

By Default, Cisco Switch Ports are set to auto negotiate. This means that the Cisco Switch / Router will agree on a speed determined by the line conditions with the end device. This works great for workstations and other end user devices as it gives freedom and flexibility without the admin needing to hard set speeds at both ends.

However, for key ports such as those to servers, other switches or routers, its often best to hard code in the speed and duplex, as well as provide a description to provide an explanation of what the port is used for.

In this example we will set the speed, duplex and a description on interface fast ethernet 0/3 .

The first step is to enter the configuration prompt for that switchport:

enable

config t

interface fa 0/3

From here, you can edit the configuration of the port.

To set the description, you use the description  command -  e.g description domain controller. Next, to set the Speed you use the speed command - e.g. speed 1000 . Finally, you set the duplex  with the duplex  command - e.g. Duplex Full .

This Article can also be found on our sister site DizzyIT.com at : http://dizzyit.com/2013/03/29/set-interface-speed-duplex-description-cisco-switch-router/

How to Erase the Config and VLAN Database on a Cisco Switch or Router

How to Erase the Config and VLAN Database on a Cisco Switch or Router

Erasing the config on a Cisco Switch or router becomes necessary at times for either disposal or re-purposing into a new location or lab environment.

NOTE: I highly recommend that before you delete any configuration from a switch or router you take a backup for the config and the vlan.dat . The one time you will need this is the one time you dont have it, and its good practice for archival purposes. 

Firstly, you need to erase the startup configuration. to do this two commands are used - either write erase or the newer erase startup-config. 

On a Catalyst Switch, you may need to to erase the VLAN database. To do this, type you type the command delete flash:vlan.dat 

From here you need to reload the router / switch. When running the reboot you will be prompted that system configuration has been modified, Save? [yes/no] Here, you should choose no . or you will write the running config back to the startup config and have to repeat the process!

This article can also be found at our sister site DizzyIT.com at: http://dizzyit.com/2013/03/29/erase-config-vlan-database-cisco-switch-router/