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Module 10: Network Management - Coggle Diagram
Module 10: Network Management
10.1 Device Discovery with CDP
Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) is a Cisco-proprietary Layer 2 protocol used to discover directly connected Cisco devices.
It reveals information such as the device ID, IP address, interface, platform, and capabilities.
CDP runs automatically on Cisco devices and is useful for mapping networks and verifying connectivity.
Administrators can enable or disable CDP globally or on specific interfaces for security purposes.
10.2 Device Discovery with LLDP
Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is an open standard (IEEE 802.1AB) for device discovery.
It works similarly to CDP but allows interoperability between Cisco and non-Cisco devices.
LLDP transmits information about the device and receives neighbor information to help in topology creation.
Administrators can adjust LLDP timers, hold times, and configure it per interface.
10.3 NTP – Network Time Protocol
NTP synchronizes clocks between devices in a network, ensuring accurate time stamps for logs, authentication, and events.
Devices can act as NTP servers or clients, syncing time from higher-stratum sources or public servers.
Accurate timekeeping is critical for analyzing logs, verifying security incidents, and maintaining consistency across systems.
Cisco devices can use manual or automatic configuration to set NTP synchronization.
10.4 SNMP – Simple Network Management Protocol
SNMP allows centralized network monitoring and management using a manager-agent model.
The SNMP Manager queries information from devices running SNMP Agents that collect and report data.
Each managed device maintains a Management Information Base (MIB) containing structured variables describing its status.
SNMP supports three versions (v1, v2c, v3), with SNMPv3 providing encryption and authentication for secure management.
It’s commonly used for network performance tracking, fault detection, and automated alerts.
10.5 Syslog
Syslog is a standard for collecting log messages from network devices in real time.
Each message includes a severity level (0–7) that helps prioritize attention, from emergencies to debugging.
Logs can be stored locally or sent to a centralized Syslog server for easier monitoring and analysis.
Syslog improves visibility into device behavior, helping administrators detect and troubleshoot issues quickly.
It integrates well with SNMP and other management systems.
10.6 Router and Switch File Maintenance
Regular backup and maintenance of configuration files ensure fast recovery after device failures.
Administrators can use commands to copy running or startup configurations to external storage (TFTP, FTP, USB, or flash).
Files can be restored to replace damaged configurations or transfer settings between devices.
Proper file naming and storage organization are essential for disaster recovery.
10.7 IOS Image Management
Cisco devices use an IOS (Internetwork Operating System) image for functionality.
Administrators must manage image files carefully — verifying checksums, versions, and compatibility.
New IOS images can be loaded via TFTP, FTP, or USB, and devices can be configured to boot from specific images.
Keeping the IOS updated improves stability, security, and access to new features.