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Configuring **VLAN trunking** between switches is essential for efficient network management. Let's dive into the details.

1. **IEEE 802.1Q Trunks**:
   - **IEEE 802.1Q** is a standard protocol for creating **virtual LANs (VLANs)** on Ethernet networks.
   - Trunking allows multiple VLANs to traverse a single link between switches.
   - Here are some key points to consider when configuring VLAN trunks:

     - **Spanning-Tree Instances**:
       - In a network of **Cisco switches** connected via IEEE 802.1Q trunks, each switch maintains one **spanning-tree instance** for each VLAN allowed on the trunks.
       - Non-Cisco devices might support a single spanning-tree instance for all VLANs.
       - When connecting a Cisco switch to a non-Cisco device through an IEEE 802.1Q trunk, the Cisco switch combines the spanning-tree instance of the VLAN of the trunk with that of the non-Cisco switch.
       - However, spanning-tree information for each VLAN is maintained separately by Cisco switches connected via a cloud of non-Cisco IEEE 802.1Q switches.
       - Ensure that the **native VLAN** for an IEEE 802.1Q trunk is the same on both ends of the trunk link to avoid spanning-tree loops.
       - Disabling spanning tree on the native VLAN of an IEEE 802.1Q trunk without disabling it on every VLAN in the network can potentially cause loops.

     - **Restrictions for VLAN Trunks**:
       - A trunk port cannot be a **secure port**.
       - Trunk ports can be grouped into **EtherChannel port groups**, but all trunks in the group must have the same configuration.
       - Make sure your network is **loop-free** before disabling spanning tree.

2. **Configuration Examples**:
   - Let's take a look at an example of configuring a port as an IEEE 802.1Q trunk:

     ```
     Switch# configure terminal
     Switch(config)# interface GigabitEthernet0/1
     Switch(config-if)# switchport mode trunk
     Switch(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20,30
     Switch(config-if)# end
     ```

   - In this example:
     - We configure **GigabitEthernet0/1** as a trunk port.
     - The allowed VLANs are **10, 20, and 30**.

3. **NETGEAR Switches**:
   - If you're using NETGEAR switches, the process may differ slightly. Here's a basic outline:

     - Open a web browser and enter the **IP address** of the switch.
     - Log in using the **admin password**.
     - Navigate to **Switching > VLAN > Advanced > VLAN Configuration**.
     - Specify the **VLAN ID** you want to create and click **Add**.

Remember to consult your specific switch documentation for detailed instructions tailored to your equipment. Happy trunking! 🌐🔌🔗