8.2 VLAN Configuration  
  8.2.3 Configuring static VLANs  
Static VLANs are ports on a switch that are manually assigned to a VLAN by using a VLAN management application or by working directly within the switch. These ports maintain their assigned VLAN configuration until they are changed manually. This topology means that the user must cross a Layer 3 device in order to reach 80 percent of the resources. This design also allows the network to provide for a deterministic, consistent method of accessing resources. This type of VLAN works well in networks where the following is true:
  • Moves are controlled and managed.
  • There is robust VLAN management software to configure the ports.
  • It is not desirable to assume the additional overhead required when maintaining end-station MAC addresses and custom filtering tables.

Dynamic VLANs do not rely on ports assigned to a specific VLAN.

The following guidelines must be followed when configuring VLANs on Cisco 29xx switches:

  • The maximum number of VLANs is switch dependent.
  • VLAN 1 is one of the factory-default VLANs.
  • VLAN 1 is the default Ethernet VLAN.
  • Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) and VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP) advertisements are sent on VLAN 1.
  • The Catalyst 29xx IP address is in the VLAN 1 broadcast domain by default.
  • The switch must be in VTP server mode to create, add, or delete VLANs.

The creation of a VLAN on a switch is a very straightforward and simple task. If using a Cisco IOS command based switch, enter the VLAN configuration mode with the privileged EXEC level vlan database command. The steps necessary to create the VLAN are shown below. A VLAN name may also be configured, if necessary.

Switch#vlan database
Switch(vlan)#vlan vlan_number
Switch(vlan)#exit

Upon exiting, the VLAN is applied to the switch. The next step is to assign the VLAN to one or more interfaces:

Switch(config)#interface fastethernet 0/9
Switch(config-if)#switchport access vlan vlan_number

 

Lab Activity

Lab Exercise: Configuring Static VLANs

This lab is to create a basic switch configuration and verify it and determine the switch firmware version.
   
 

Lab Activity

e-Lab Activity: Configuring Static VLANs

In this lab, the students will create a basic switch configuration and verify it.