Also known as: access mode port
Quick Definition
A switch port assigned to a single VLAN, connecting end devices such as PCs and printers.
An access port belongs to exactly one VLAN and carries untagged frames. End devices (PCs, servers, printers) are connected to access ports — they are unaware of VLANs. When a frame arrives on an access port, the switch internally tags it with the port's configured VLAN. When it leaves toward the end device, the tag is removed. Access ports are the default mode on most switches.
interface GigabitEthernet0/2 switchport mode access switchport access vlan 20
If a port is in access mode and you configure 'switchport access vlan 20', but VLAN 20 does not exist in the VLAN database, the port is active but traffic will be dropped. Always create the VLAN first.
An access port belongs to exactly one VLAN and carries untagged frames. End devices (PCs, servers, printers) are connected to access ports — they are unaware of VLANs. When a frame arrives on an access port, the switch internally tags it with the port's configured VLAN. When it leaves toward the end device, the tag is removed. Access ports are the default mode on most switches.
If a port is in access mode and you configure 'switchport access vlan 20', but VLAN 20 does not exist in the VLAN database, the port is active but traffic will be dropped. Always create the VLAN first.
Access Port falls under the VLANs domain of the 200-301 exam. Understanding it in context with related terms like vlan and trunk-port is essential for answering scenario-based questions correctly.