Cisco CCNA CCNP Certification Exam Same Command Different Results
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Computer Certification.
Cisco CCNA/CCNP Certification Exam: Same Command, Different Results
Introduction
As a CCNA or CCNP professional, expect the unexpected. Often, using the same command on different devices can yield entirely different outcomes. In this article, Chris Bryant, CCIE
12933, explains why this happens and how to manage it effectively.
Adapting to Change
In the world of networking, change is a constant. Cisco frequently updates its IOS versions and produces a wide range of hardware. While it’s great to have the latest equipment, not all clients will have the newest technology.
For example, many still use older Catalyst 5000 switches. If you’ve primarily worked with IOS-driven switches like the 2950, you might find that the same command produces markedly different results on older equipment.
Real-World Example
Consider examining the spanning tree protocol (STP) setup at a new client site. If you're accustomed to running `show span` on 2950 switches, you expect to see spanning tree information. However, on a Catalyst 5000 switch, you'll see something quite different:
```
switch (enable) show span
Destination : Port 6/1
Admin Source : Port 6/2
Oper Source : Port 6/2
Direction : transmit/receive
Incoming Packets: disabled
Learning : enabled
Multicast : enabled
Filter : -
Status : active
Total local span sessions: 1
```
Here, `show span` displays statistics related to the Switched Port Analyzer (SPAN) rather than spanning tree stats. Quite a surprise!
In another scenario, if you're used to checking SPAN information on a 5000 switch, running the same command on a 2950 will show spanning tree details instead. On a 2950, the correct command for SPAN stats is `show monitor session`, followed by the session number:
```
SW1
show monitor session 1
Session 1
---------
Type : Local Session
Source Ports :
Both : Fa0/1
Destination Ports : Fa0/2
Encapsulation : Native
Ingress: Disabled
```
Navigating Command Variations
As a networking professional, it's crucial to understand that command differences exist between models. To tackle this, become proficient with IOS Help and Cisco’s online documentation. IOS Help is user-friendly, while the online resources might take some time to master. Once familiar, you'll have a wealth of Cisco knowledge at your fingertips.
When you sit for the CCIE lab exam, this expertise will be invaluable. Trust me on that! :)
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Cisco CCNA CCNP Certification Exam Same Command Different Results.
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