Cisco IOS in a Nutshell (In a Nutshell)

  Author:    James Boney
  ISBN:    0596008694
  Sales Rank:    76612
  Published:    2005-08-22
  Publisher:    O'Reilly
  # Pages:    796
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    5.0 based on 20 reviews
  Used Offers:    15 from $6.00
  Amazon Price:    $26.37
  (Data above last updated:  2008-11-29 05:52:28 EST)
  
  
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Cisco IOS in a Nutshell (In a Nutshell)
  
Cisco routers are everywhere that networks are. They come in all sizes, from inexpensive units for homes and small offices to equipment costing well over $100,000 and capable of routing at gigabit speeds. A fixture in today's networks, Cisco claims roughly 70% of the router market, producing high-end switches, hubs, and other network hardware. One unifying thread runs through the product line: virtually all of Cisco's products run the Internetwork Operating System, or IOS.

If you work with Cisco routers, it's likely that you deal with Cisco's IOS software--an extremely powerful and complex operating system, with an equally complex configuration language. With a cryptic command-line interface and thousands of commands--some of which mean different things in different situations--it doesn't have a reputation for being user-friendly.

Fortunately, there's help. This second edition of Cisco IOS in a Nutshell consolidates the most important commands and features of IOS into a single, well-organized volume that you'll find refreshingly user-friendly.

This handy, two-part reference covers IOS configuration for the TCP/IP protocol family. The first section includes chapters on the user interface, configuring lines and interfaces, access lists, routing protocols, and dial-on-demand routing and security. A brief, example-filled tutorial shows you how to accomplish common tasks.

The second part is a classic O'Reilly quick reference to all the commands for working with TCP/IP and the lower-level protocols on which it relies. Brief descriptions and lists of options help you zero in on the commands you for the task at hand. Updated to cover Cisco IOS Software Major Release 12.3, this second edition includes lots of examples of the most common configuration steps for the routers themselves. It's a timely guide that any network administrator will come to rely on.

Three cheers for the Nutshell format! There may be no better printed style for command-line environments, like the Internetwork Operating System (IOS) that runs on Cisco Systems routers. Cisco IOS in a Nutshell documents the most important bits of the frequently arcane IOS command line from aaa accounting to write, thereby providing a valuable resource to everyone who works with IOS. The reference section--which makes up about 60 percent of this book--summarizes each command (again, they're not all covered, but the ones that aren't are pretty obscure) with a statement of its scope (global, interface, line, or whatever), followed by generalized syntax summaries in the style of Unix man pages (these indicate the legal combinations of switches and parameters). Then, a detailed discussion of each switch and parameter clarifies what each is for. The whole reference section is alphabetical, with lettered dark boxes on the pages' outer edges that are easy to scan while flipping pages rapidly.

Prior to the reference section, the author explains how the IOS interface refers to and controls aspects of routers, such as lines and interfaces. He does a great job of it, too--you could do far worse than to read his explanations before going to work under IOS for the first time. The other great value of this early section is in the author's discussion of how to configure a new router by bringing interfaces, data-communication protocols (like TCP/IP), routing protocols (like Border Gateway Protocol, or BGP), and services like Domain Name Service (DNS) online. This book is a tremendous value for Cisco engineers. --David Wall

Topics covered: How to configure a Cisco Systems router with the Internetwork Operating System (IOS). The most popular commands are documented, and there's a tutorial section that familiarizes readers with the Cisco way of thinking about a router's work. The author uses IOS 12.x as his baseline, though users of older versions will find his work valuable.

                  Reader Reviews 1 - 24 of 24                 
  
  
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11-20-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Just Useful!
Reviewer Permalink
Depending on what you wish to get you will judge this book.
I was after a quick reference just to check various switches in different IOS commands and to quickly work out how they can be utilized - It did the job! however there some caveats :
The version of IOS used by the Author probably is 12.1 or even earlier , some commands have been changed and some configurations are no longer valid. For instance in order for static RP to work you have to configure the RP itself to make things happen but the nice example in the Multicast chapter does not have this command (since it was not mandatory prior to 12.2). Or in the SNAT section, there is a fantastic example but for a first timer it's pretty much useless because most of Stateful NAT commands are required to be changed in the latest IOS versions. Anyway, I strongly believe that by developing a new edition of this valuable book it still could be one of the best IOS resources.
HTH,
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-30 07:00:27 EST)
05-29-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good reference
Reviewer Permalink
This is a good reference book, but don't count on it to teach you how to set up a Cisco device or any networking. Even though it is fairly current, I have found a few differences between it and IOS 12.4 T.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-29 10:48:38 EST)
02-28-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Another good in job reference book
Reviewer Permalink
this is another all in one book that i have, the other one is cisco ios cookbook. what i found that this book is very good after using it for some time, and also the writing style makes me easy to understand it very well.

i like the part where the author give comment on each line after a command to tell the reader what does that command do.

this book cover wide variety of things, and honestly i haven't read and tried all of the parts, but from what i have read and tried, this book gives very good detail in setting up tunnel and its security, it did help me understand how to set it up from scratch while i didn't know about it at all before.

in qos part, this is why i give this book 4/5, it just tell you briefly what each type of qos method does what it doesn't really give you an example of working configuration. i would like to see the author give an example from a real life configuration, suggestion to choose which type that we should use for particular case or even maybe combining few different type.

another suggestion is maybe to update the book with more information, and more commands that newer ios supports.

my recommendation is to get this book along with cisco ios cookbook, i am pretty sure it will cover the part where this book is missing and vise versa. you might also find this book is easier to read and understand than cookbook as well.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-30 09:24:26 EST)
09-20-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Must for Cisco Network Professionals
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book for my Master's research paper on Cisco IOS.

I have found this book to be a good source on IOS's architecture. It has approximately 120 pages dedicated to general internetworking fundamentals such as differences betwen RIP, OSPF, and EIGRP.

The rest of the book is dedicated to IOS commands and proper syntax usages. This is a great reference book and good overview of networking concepts.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-28 08:13:58 EST)
09-19-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Perfect for understanding the nuiances in Cisco IOS
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book. It covers the basics of IOS and will give the intermediate and advance users more than they have bargained for.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-28 08:13:58 EST)
03-25-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Nutshell books are always good
Reviewer Permalink
What can I say. Nutshell books are great. I own dozens of them and they are almost always great refererence manuals. This one is pretty good too.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-15 06:17:55 EST)
03-24-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Nutshell books are always good
Reviewer Permalink
What can I say. Nutshell books are great. I own dozens of them and they are almost always great refererence manuals. This one is pretty good too.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-04-11 09:40:56 EST)
03-16-06 5 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Book for Work
Reviewer Permalink
I am taking a college course on Cisco products and programming. The professor recommended this book. I have used the book many times researching answers for school and work. The book gives short clear direct descriptions and examples. Ideal for the working person or student concerned with Cisco products and/or networking in general.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-15 06:17:55 EST)
03-15-06 5 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Book for Work
Reviewer Permalink
I am taking a college course on Cisco products and programming. The professor recommended this book. I have used the book many times researching answers for school and work. The book gives short clear direct descriptions and examples. Ideal for the working person or student concerned with Cisco products and/or networking in general.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-03-25 07:00:55 EST)
02-17-06 5 2\3
(Hide Review...)  VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Reviewer Permalink
Are you a network administrator who is using a Cisco router in an IP environment? If you are, this book is for you. Author James Boney, has written an outstanding 2nd edition of a book that is for everybody who has to deal with Cisco's routers.

Boney, begins by covering the Cisco user interface. Then, he discusses several methods for uploading a new IOS image. The author continues by covering most of the configuration items that make routers more manageable and easier to tame. In addition, he shows you how to use line commands. The author also shows you how to use interface commands. Then, the author covers some networking technologies that you are likely to encounter, such as frame relay, ATM, cable, DSL, and VoIP. Next, he shows you how to use access lists. Next, the author discusses a number of topics that are common to all of the protocols. Then, he discusses interior routing protocols, including Routing Information Protocol (RIP); the Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP), and the newer Enhanced IGRP (EIGRP); Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), and Intermediate System-to-Intermediate System (IS-IS). The author continues by discussing the Border Gateway Protocol. In addition, he covers Cisco's new advanced tools for QoS management as well: Modular QoS CLI (MQC), Class-Based Weighted Fair Queing (CBWFQ), and Network-Based Application Recognition (NBAR). In addition, he covers Cisco's IOS support for dial-on-demand categories: Legacy DDR and Dialer profiles. The author also covers a number of IP configuration topics that won't find their way into simple configurations. Then, the author describes Cisco switches, with an emphasis on IOS-enabled switches. Next, the author describes the first simple steps you can take toward router security. Finally, he discusses techniques for troubleshooting and monitoring your router.

This excellent book is primarily a quick reference to the commands that are most frequently needed to configure Cisco routers for standard IP routing tasks. Above all, this book represents practical experience with IP routing on Cisco routers and covers commands that you're likely to need.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-06-25 08:39:10 EST)
02-16-06 5 2\3
(Hide Review...)  VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Reviewer Permalink
Are you a network administrator who is using a Cisco router in an IP environment? If you are, this book is for you. Author James Boney, has written an outstanding 2nd edition of a book that is for everybody who has to deal with Cisco's routers.

Boney, begins by covering the Cisco user interface. Then, he discusses several methods for uploading a new IOS image. The author continues by covering most of the configuration items that make routers more manageable and easier to tame. In addition, he shows you how to use line commands. The author also shows you how to use interface commands. Then, the author covers some networking technologies that you are likely to encounter, such as frame relay, ATM, cable, DSL, and VoIP. Next, he shows you how to use access lists. Next, the author discusses a number of topics that are common to all of the protocols. Then, he discusses interior routing protocols, including Routing Information Protocol (RIP); the Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP), and the newer Enhanced IGRP (EIGRP); Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), and Intermediate System-to-Intermediate System (IS-IS). The author continues by discussing the Border Gateway Protocol. In addition, he covers Cisco's new advanced tools for QoS management as well: Modular QoS CLI (MQC), Class-Based Weighted Fair Queing (CBWFQ), and Network-Based Application Recognition (NBAR). In addition, he covers Cisco's IOS support for dial-on-demand categories: Legacy DDR and Dialer profiles. The author also covers a number of IP configuration topics that won't find their way into simple configurations. Then, the author describes Cisco switches, with an emphasis on IOS-enabled switches. Next, the author describes the first simple steps you can take toward router security. Finally, he discusses techniques for troubleshooting and monitoring your router.

This excellent book is primarily a quick reference to the commands that are most frequently needed to configure Cisco routers for standard IP routing tasks. Above all, this book represents practical experience with IP routing on Cisco routers and covers commands that you're likely to need.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-01-08 06:21:03 EST)
01-06-06 3 3\4
(Hide Review...)  2nd edition is published
Reviewer Permalink
2nd Edition is published around Aug 05, I mistakenly ordered this book from Amazon and thought this is the latest edition. I have to return this book as a result.

Amazon should sell the latest edition.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-15 06:17:55 EST)
12-22-05 3 4\4
(Hide Review...)  Desperately needs a new edition
Reviewer Permalink
While some people might find this volume indispensible, I found it to be nearly worthless. Newer IOS features that should be covered, like VTP, are absent. Important basics like crypto key generate are missing too.

If they ever release a new edition that addresses some of these glaring holes, I might recommend it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-07 07:30:32 EST)
12-21-05 3 4\4
(Hide Review...)  Desperately needs a new edition
Reviewer Permalink
While some people might find this volume indispensible, I found it to be nearly worthless. Newer IOS features that should be covered, like VTP, are absent. Important basics like crypto key generate are missing too.

If they ever release a new edition that addresses some of these glaring holes, I might recommend it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-01-08 06:21:03 EST)
12-18-05 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Great for the part time networker
Reviewer Permalink
I can really see this as being indespensible for someone who manages a network in addition to other duties. With plenty of advice, samples, and instruction, it's the perfect aid to get you through IOS. This book is the midpoint between having it all in your head, and muddling through CCO to figure it out.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-07 07:30:32 EST)
08-02-05 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  If you work with Cisco equipment, ALWAYS keep this near!
Reviewer Permalink
First of all, I love O'Reilly's "Nutshell" books. They are very concise, and they keep the specifics handy for those experienced in the subject matter. IOS in a Nutshell is no different. I use this book every day, and it was crucial for a variety of scripts I've created for use in the workplace. Specifically, this helps in every IP networking scenario, from Frame Relay and ATM, to DDR and access lists. This is great! It's my one stop shop for command-line answers. It also briefly explains each subject so that you get a basic understanding of what you'll be configuring. This is great for seasoned administrators and those just starting to study for the CCNA. Hands on is the key, and this book helps you to do just that.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-01-08 06:21:03 EST)
10-09-04 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  The most handy Cisco IOS Book and dependable
Reviewer Permalink
what I really like this book is that it's full jumpack of Cisco configuration for IOS.
Some people expect that this book must include Switch command, but what the heck they can't read the Title of the book "CISCO IOS" and not "Cisco CatOS & IOS"..

Anyway the discussion approach of Mr. James Boney is very superb and he just explain complicate things to simple one, and I like configuration example with explanation insert.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:38 EST)
01-23-04 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Excellent Reference
Reviewer Permalink
Cisco IOS in a Nutshell is a good book for Cisco students and admininstrators alike. It is a good reference to keep by your router if you need to get the gist of certain commands. Mr. Boney does a good job explaining Cisco technologies.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:38 EST)
10-07-03 4 5\5
(Hide Review...)  CISCO IOS in a nutshell
Reviewer Permalink
The Cisco IOS Command Line Interface (CLI) has burgeoned over the years, and
the consequent wealth of commands can intimidate the most seasoned system admin.

More than half of this book's 592 pages are devoted to a CLI reference section--
and if you are seriously involved with router management, you'll find that your
copy will be well worn.

The other half of the book is a practical coverage of theory -- access lists,
interior and external routing protocols, security, troubleshooting -- each
with real-world examples to back them up.

Think you're already a Cisco Guru? You might need to think again -- do you know
how to optimize your access lists? (page 98) Do you know the difference between
IGRP and EIGRP? (check out Chapter 9 -- interior routing protocols.) And finally,
do you know how to setup multiple-group hot standby routing? (flip to page 213)

This book is a great guidebook for the novice and a solid reference for the
experienced.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:38 EST)
03-01-03 4 4\6
(Hide Review...)  95+ percent of what you need
Reviewer Permalink
The one thing that I really expected in a volume that seems to bill itself as at least covering most of the salient points of the subject but DIDN'T find in this one was any of the commands related to vtp, vlans or trunks. I didn't think those commands would be considered as esoteric for the purposes of this book. Otherwise, it's another excellent title from O'Reilly, and I *do* own many.. I guess if you need everything short of the kitchen sink, the Cisco volume would better meet your needs.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:38 EST)
02-08-02 5 4\4
(Hide Review...)  "As Good As It Gets"
Reviewer Permalink
Can't say anything more, the other reviewers have covered everything. A Must have book for the field and covers an aweful lot for 592 pages. Very Happy!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:39 EST)
01-27-02 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Excellent IOS Reference Guide
Reviewer Permalink
James Boney has done an excellent job of cramming a great deal of useful information into a concise guide to Cisco routers. There's a lot of information in here that the advanced Cisco routing course never touches. WARNING: This covers IP protocols only (but who uses AppleTalk or IPX these days, anyway?). My only quibbles are: (A) he doesn't discuss the IS-IS routing protocol, and (B), after an excellent introduction to crypto commands, he doesn't break them out in the quick reference guide. Otherwise, it will be a very useful volume for networking professionals.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:39 EST)
01-09-02 5 6\6
(Hide Review...)  Yes, this IS another Nutshell MUST_HAVE!
Reviewer Permalink
IF you do any IOS commands and ever want to lookup details quickly, you'll LOVE this book. Also, IF you're learning
anything from your 1st "conf t" to advanced BGP, You'll find the tutorial part of this book (first third) SUPERBLY clear.
This book is SOOOO great, even for a beginner, that I just ordered 4 more copies for friends! This might even be the only Cisco book you need. (Note: NO mention of switches, STP, VLAN, etc.)
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:39 EST)
12-16-01 5 17\19
(Hide Review...)  Right by my side - making it easier to configure the router.
Reviewer Permalink
One thing I have discovered over the past 12 years is that it is impossible to remember every command associated with a particular operating system, this includes routers. That's why I have this book on my desk to help me out remembering the syntax for the configuration files.

This 590 page must have reference book starts off with the loading of the image and configuration files which included setting up the router and the Line commands needs for this. Then author gives you the commands for the configuration of the line interfaces as the next topic discussed.

From there you find commands for configuration of Frame Relay, ATM, Access Lists, and Queues as the next set of topics, followed up with Interior Routing Protocols like RIP, IGRP, EIGRP and OSPF being tackled.

Moving on BGP and SNMP, DDR, HSRP, NAT, security and troubleshooting rounds out the topics. While this book is written to any exam specifications you may it very useful for most if not all Cisco certification exams.

Finally the book has over 300 pages devoted to the commands and there breakdown to give you the where to use, description and examples of the code. About the only thing left out was the entire book in e-book format or formatted for the palm. Overall this is one book I will have with for a very long time - well done!!!

(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-12 07:36:39 EST)
  
                  Reader Reviews 1 - 24 of 24                 
  
  
  
  
  
  

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