2.1 Basic Device Configuration

MDIX Configuration

Before Modern Networking, specific cable types (straigh-through / crossover in particular) were required to connect intermediary devices together (Switch-Switch) (Router-Router)

Nowadays we use what we know as (auto-MDIX). This is a feature on an interface that eliminates the need for a specific cable. The interface will automatically detect the required cable connection type and configures the connection as needed. In other words, you can use a normal straight-through cable to connect intermediary devices together.

With auto-MDIX enabled, any ethernet cable can be used, and the interface will automatically adjust to communicate successfully.

When using auto-MDIX on an interface, the interface speed and duplex must be set to auto so that the feature operates correctly.

Configuring Auto-MDIX

Command to enable Auto-MDIX

S1(config-if)# mdix auto

[NOTE] Usually Auto-MDIX is enable by default on modern devices.

Enter interface configuration mode

S1(config)# interface [interface-id]

Configure the interface Duplex

S1(config-if)# duplex [mode]

Configure the interface Speed

S1(config-if)# speed [speed]
Switchport Duplex and Speed Configuration Example
s1> enable
S1# configure terminal
S1(config)# interface fa0/1
S1(config-if)# duplex auto
S1(config-if)# speed 1000
S1(config-if)# exit
S1(config)# 

[NOTE] Full-Duplex is always used when devices are operating at 1000Mbps/1Gpbs and/or Fiber-Optic 1000BASE-SX