Access Layer

Access Layer Switch Configuration

The Access Layer is the lowest tier in the hierarchical network model. It is the "front door" of the network where end-user devices—such as PCs, IP cameras, smart attendance RFID readers, and IoT sensors—connect to the switch. The primary goal of an access switch is to assign these devices to their correct VLANs and provide network entry.

1. Creating VLANs on the Switch

Before you can assign ports to a VLAN, the VLAN must be created in the switch's database and given a name.

enable

configure terminal

vlan 10

name Admin

vlan 20

name IoT_Devices

exit

2. Assigning a Range of Ports to a VLAN

In a university environment, you often need to configure an entire lab or department at once. Using the range command saves time.

enable

configure terminal

interface range fa0/1-24

switchport mode access

switchport access vlan 10

exit

do wr

interface range fa0/1-24: Selects FastEthernet ports 1 through 24 simultaneously.
switchport mode access: Forces the ports to operate as access ports (connecting to end devices, not other switches).
switchport access vlan 10: Places all 24 ports into the Admin VLAN so they can communicate with each other.

3. Assigning a Single Port to a VLAN

If you only need to configure one specific port (for example, a single Gigabit port connecting to a Smart Server).

interface gig0/1

switchport mode access

switchport access vlan 20

exit

4. Verifying VLAN Assignments

After assigning your ports, you should always verify that the configuration was applied correctly.

show vlan brief

Displays a list of all VLANs on the switch.
Shows exactly which interfaces (ports) are currently assigned to each VLAN.
This is the most important troubleshooting command at the Access Layer.

5. Saving the Configuration

Always save your configuration so it is not lost if the switch loses power or is restarted in the simulation.

copy running-config startup-config

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