# VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) – Why Version 3 is Recommended

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VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) is a Cisco proprietary protocol used to manage VLAN configurations across a network. VTP version 3 offers significant improvements over previous versions, making it the recommended choice for modern networks.

Key Advantages of VTP Version 3

1. Extended VLAN Support

  • Supports extended-range VLANs (1006-4094), essential for large and complex networks.

2. Enhanced Control and Security

  • Introduces a primary server role for centralized VLAN management.
  • Reduces accidental VLAN database overwrites.
  • Stronger authentication mechanisms.

3. Support for Advanced VLAN Types

  • Propagates Private VLANs (PVLANs) and Remote SPAN (RSPAN) VLANs.
  • Supports Multiple Spanning Tree (MST) configurations.

4. Greater Stability

  • Improved protection against database corruption.

You Should Know: VTPv3 Configuration & Verification

Basic VTPv3 Configuration


<h1>Enable VTP version 3</h1>

Switch(config)# vtp version 3

<h1>Set VTP domain name</h1>

Switch(config)# vtp domain NETWORK_DOMAIN

<h1>Set VTP mode (Primary Server/Client/Transparent)</h1>

Switch(config)# vtp mode primary

<h1>Enable VTP password (optional)</h1>

Switch(config)# vtp password SECURE_PASSWORD hidden 

Verification Commands


<h1>Check VTP status</h1>

Switch# show vtp status

<h1>Verify VTP version</h1>

Switch# show vtp version

<h1>View VLAN database</h1>

Switch# show vlan brief

<h1>Check trunking interfaces</h1>

Switch# show interfaces trunk 

Troubleshooting VTP Issues


<h1>Check VTP advertisements</h1>

Switch# debug sw-vlan vtp events

<h1>Reset VTP revision number (if needed)</h1>

Switch(config)# vtp mode transparent 
Switch(config)# vtp mode server 

What Undercode Say

VTPv3 is a critical protocol for efficient VLAN management in Cisco environments. Its enhanced security, stability, and support for advanced VLAN types make it superior to VTPv1 and VTPv2. Always ensure proper domain and password settings to prevent misconfigurations.

For further reading:

Expected Output:

VTP Version: 3 
VTP Domain Name: NETWORK_DOMAIN 
VTP Operating Mode: Primary Server 
VTP Pruning Mode: Disabled 
Number of existing VLANs: 10 

References:

Reported By: Mohamed Elnour – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅

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