Multilayer Switch Configuration
This playbook describes the essential steps for configuring multilayer switches. It includes the setting up of layer 3 switching functionalities, configuring inter-VLAN routing, and establishing various IP services.
Step 1: Preparation
Gather all necessary information such as IP addresses, subnet masks, VLAN IDs, and any relevant routing protocols that will be used.
Step 2: Access Switch
Connect to the switch using SSH, Telnet, or a console connection to access the switch's command-line interface (CLI).
Step 3: Enter Privileged Mode
Enter privileged EXEC mode by typing enable
in the CLI and providing the required password.
Step 4: Configuration Mode
Access the global configuration mode by typing configure terminal
or conf t
from the privileged EXEC mode.
Step 5: Configure VLANs
Create VLANs as needed by using the vlan <VLAN_ID>
command and provide a name using the name <VLAN_NAME>
command within the VLAN configuration mode.
Step 6: Assign Switchports
Assign switch ports to VLANs using the interface <INTERFACE_ID>
command followed by the switchport access vlan <VLAN_ID>
command in their respective interface configuration modes.
Step 7: Configure SVIs
Set up Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs) for inter-VLAN routing using the interface vlan <VLAN_ID>
command, assigning IP addresses with ip address <IP_ADDRESS> <SUBNET_MASK>
and enabling them with no shutdown
.
Step 8: Enable Routing
Enable layer 3 routing capabilities by typing the ip routing
command in the global configuration mode.
Step 9: IP Routing Protocol
Configure an IP routing protocol such as OSPF or EIGRP if required, using the router protocol commands and specifying networks with network statements.
Step 10: Verify Configuration
Verify the configuration is correct and operational using verification commands such as show ip route
, show ip interface brief
, and show vlan
.
Step 11: Save Configuration
Save the running configuration to the startup configuration file to ensure changes are persistent after a reboot by using the write memory
or copy running-config startup-config
commands.
General Notes
Backups
Always backup the current switch configuration before making changes to avoid loss of service in case of misconfiguration.
ACLs
Consider implementing Access Control Lists (ACLs) for security purposes to control traffic flow between VLANs.
Testing
After configuration, thoroughly test connectivity and routing between VLANs to ensure the network operates as intended.