Key characteristics of various switching technologies, LAN Switching and the hierarchical model of network design, VLANs and network security, VLANs and broadcast distribution, configuring VLANs, VLAN Identification (ISL, IEEE 802.1q)
Spanning tree protocol (STP)
Inter-VLAN routing
Restricting network access, Access policy overview, controlling privilege levels, policy configuration

A written examination, length 2 hours weighted at 50% (Learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4).
A practical exam, length 1 hour not in examination conditions weighted at 50% (Learning outcomes 2 and 3).

12 hours lectures; 24 hours labs / tutorial
Self-managed learning using on-line material
Weekly one hour lecture to supplement on-line material
On-line multiple choice tests to give formative feedback
Lab sessions every week to gain practical networking experience and re-enforce theory
Investigation using Web
(1:n)1 (1:20)2

Cisco Networking Academy Program: CCNP3 on-line course material, Cisco Systems Inc. hosted by Staffordshire University

CCNP: Complete Study Guide (642-801, 642-811, 642-821, 642-831) by Wade Edwards et al., Sybex, May 2005, ISBN: 0782144217

CCNP BCMSN Official Exam Certification Guide (4th Edition) by David Hucaby, Cisco Press, 4th edition, December 2006, ISBN: 1587201712

To have completed CE00126-1 (Introduction to Networking with LANs and WANs) and/or study of modules containing CCNA content or equivalent or valid CCNA qualification.

- Internet
- Library
- Windows workstations
- Networking equipment in University labs

Additionally, for CISCO Academies only
- On-line learning material provided by CISCO Inc.
- CISCO Networking Academy programme assessment server
- Laboratory exercise sheets provided by course instructor

NOTE
Instructors teaching this module who use the CISCO material must have completed a CCNP3 instructor training course of the CNAP programme.