Learn Computer Networking PNETLab

Learn Computer Networking PNETLab is a practical Layer 2 and Layer 3 computer networking series built on PNETLab and Cisco Images, covering everything from beginner to advanced: prerequisites and lab setup, OSI vs TCP/IP reference models, Cisco IOS basics, IPv4 subnetting and VLSM, Layer 2 switching and VLANs, 802.1Q trunking, inter-VLAN routing (router-on-a-stick vs Layer 3 switch), STP and RSTP, EtherChannel LACP and PAgP, static routing, EIGRP, single-area and multi-area OSPF, BGP fundamentals, HSRP and VRRP, ACLs, NAT and PAT, site-to-site VPN GRE over IPsec, DHCP relay, NTP and syslog, SNMP and AAA security, through to a complex enterprise lab and comprehensive troubleshooting ... in a total of 21 episodes.

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Pre-Requisites Skills & Lab Environment Setup PNETLab

Before touching any network device, you need to master basic computer operation and the binary number system, then prepare the PNETLab server, Cisco Images (vIOS and IOL/IOU), a console terminal client, and Wireshark. In this episode you make sure every prerequisite is in place and verify the lab for the first time.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Networking Fundamentals & OSI vs TCP/IP Reference Models

This episode lays the foundation for the entire series: why computers need networks, the components of end devices, intermediate devices, and network media, and a breakdown of the seven-layer OSI reference model and the four-layer TCP/IP model. Finally, the data encapsulation and decapsulation process is covered along with the Protocol Data Units (PDUs) from Data to Bits.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Cisco IOS Introduction & Basic Configuration

This episode introduces Cisco IOS and the Command Line Interface (CLI): the structure of the User EXEC, Privileged EXEC, Global Configuration, and Interface Configuration modes. You learn basic router and switch configuration such as hostname, enable secret, console line, SSH access, banner motd, and initial status verification commands.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - IP Addressing (IPv4 Address, Subnetting & VLSM)

This episode breaks down the IPv4 address from its 32-bit structure and dotted decimal notation to classful classification A through E, and public and private IPs per RFC 1918. You learn manual subnetting with CIDR notation, calculate the number of subnets and usable hosts, and then put together a Variable Length Subnet Mask (VLSM) allocation based on the real needs of each department.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Layer 2 Switching & VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)

This episode breaks down how a Layer 2 switch works: the MAC address table, the learning, flooding, forwarding, and filtering processes, and the difference between broadcast domains and collision domains. You also build your first VLAN, assign access ports, and verify with show vlan brief and show mac address-table.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - VLAN Trunking Protocol & IEEE 802.1Q Trunking

This episode discusses the need for trunking when VLANs span multiple physical switches, the 4-byte IEEE 802.1Q tag mechanism, and the risks of native VLAN and VLAN hopping. You configure a trunk, restrict the VLANs allowed, then understand VTP domains, server client transparent modes, and pruning.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Inter-VLAN Routing (Router-on-a-Stick vs Layer 3 Switch)

This episode discusses inter-VLAN routing: how to connect communication between VLANs that sit in different subnets. You learn two methods, router-on-a-stick (ROAS) with sub-interfaces and the Switched Virtual Interface (SVI) on a Layer 3 multilayer switch, complete with a comparison of the performance and efficiency of both.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Loop Prevention with Spanning Tree Protocol (STP & RSTP)

This episode discusses the problems of redundant Layer 2 topologies: broadcast storms, multiple frame transmission, and CAM table instability. You understand how STP IEEE 802.1D works from root bridge selection, port roles, and port state transitions, then the advantages of RSTP 802.1w along with PortFast and BPDU Guard.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Link Aggregation with EtherChannel (LACP & PAgP)

This episode discusses EtherChannel or link aggregation: combining up to 8 physical cables into a single logical channel for bandwidth and redundancy. You compare the open standard LACP negotiation protocol and the proprietary PAgP, then configure Layer 2 and Layer 3 EtherChannel along with its verification.

August 10, 2026

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Learn Computer Networking PNETLab - Routing Concepts & Static Routing (Basic to Advanced)

This episode breaks down the routing table: destination network, subnet mask, next-hop, administrative distance, and metric, plus the longest prefix match principle. You configure static routing between three routers, a default static route toward an ISP, and a floating static route as an automatic backup with a higher administrative distance.

August 10, 2026

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