What does VTP stand for, and what is its primary purpose on Cisco switches?
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Explanation: VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP) is a Cisco proprietary protocol used to manage VLAN configuration across a network of Cisco switches. Its primary purpose is to ensure consistency in VLAN definitions across the network, thereby reducing administrative overhead and potential configuration errors. How VTP Works: VTP enables switches to share VLAN information with one another. When a VLAN is added, modified, or deleted on one switch (usually the VTP server), that change is automatically propagated to all other switches in the VTP domain. This synchronization helps maintain a consistent VLAN configuration across an entire network, which is essential for preventing connectivity issues that might arise if VLANs are not uniformly defined. Key Components of VTP: VTP Server: A switch configured as a VTP server can create, modify, and delete VLANs. Changes made on a VTP server are advertised to other switches in the same VTP domain. VTP Client: These switches receive updates from the VTP server but cannot make changes to the VLAN configuration. They automatically update their VLAN databases based on information received from the VTP server. VTP Transparent Mode: In transparent mode, a switch does not participate in VTP. It maintains its own VLAN configuration locally and forwards VTP advertisements without applying them. This mode is used when an administrator does not wish for a switch’s VLAN configuration to be managed centrally. Benefits of VTP: Consistency: By ensuring that all switches in a VTP domain share the same VLAN configuration, VTP helps avoid mismatches that could cause connectivity problems. Reduced Administrative Overhead: Network administrators can manage VLANs from a single point (the VTP server), and changes are automatically distributed to other switches. This streamlines the configuration process. Scalability: VTP allows for easier management of large networks by minimizing the need to manually configure VLANs on each switch. Why Other Options Are Incorrect: Option A: Virtual Terminal Protocol is unrelated to VLAN management. Option B and C: Although the names suggest trunking, VTP is not used to negotiate trunk links—that role is performed by trunking protocols like 802.1Q or ISL (Inter-Switch Link). VTP’s function is solely to distribute VLAN information. Conclusion: VTP stands for VLAN Trunking Protocol, and its primary purpose is to propagate VLAN information across a switched network (Option D). It plays a crucial role in network administration by ensuring that all switches within a VTP domain maintain consistent VLAN configurations, which in turn supports network stability and reduces the chance of configuration errors.
This CCNA practice question helps students prepare for Cisco networking certification exams by testing knowledge of network fundamentals, routing, switching, and network security concepts.