vtp mode [server|client|transparent]
Controls whether a switch can create/modify VLANs via VTP or just receives VLAN configuration.
vtp mode {server | client | transparent | off}When to Use This Command
- Setting access switches to VTP client mode to receive VLAN configuration automatically.
- Configuring a distribution switch as VTP server to manage VLANs centrally.
- Isolating a switch with unique VLANs in transparent mode to prevent VTP contamination.
- Disabling VTP propagation on switches connecting to external or untrusted networks.
Command Examples
Set switch to VTP client mode
SW2(config)# vtp mode clientSetting device to VTP CLIENT mode.
SW2 is now a VTP client — it will receive VLAN updates from VTP servers on trunk links but cannot create or delete VLANs locally.
Set switch to transparent mode (isolated)
SW3(config)# vtp mode transparentSetting device to VTP TRANSPARENT mode.
SW3 will not synchronize VLANs with other switches. It keeps its own VLAN database and forwards VTP frames through trunk links. Useful for switches with unique VLANs that shouldn't be overwritten.
Understanding the Output
The command displays a confirmation message indicating the new mode. Verify with 'show vtp status' — look for 'VTP Operating Mode' field. VTP version 2 (default on most switches) propagates on all trunk links automatically once the domain and mode are set.
CCNA Exam Tips
CCNA exam tip: The 3 modes: Server (can create VLANs, propagates), Client (receives VLANs, cannot create), Transparent (ignores VTP sync but forwards VTP frames).
CCNA exam tip: VTP is active on trunk links only. Access ports do not participate in VTP.
CCNA exam tip: A switch in client mode that connects to a server with a higher revision number will immediately sync — potentially deleting VLANs. This is the classic VTP disaster scenario.
CCNA exam tip: Setting a switch to 'vtp mode off' completely disables VTP (version 3 only).
Common Mistakes
Mistake 1: Adding a new switch with a higher VTP revision number to the network in server/client mode — it overwrites the VTP database on all switches, potentially deleting production VLANs.
Mistake 2: Forgetting that VTP only works on trunk links — access port connections cannot carry VTP updates.
Mistake 3: Confusing VTP transparent mode with disabling VTP entirely — transparent still forwards VTP frames.
Related Commands
show vtp status
Displays VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) configuration and status, including the VTP mode, domain name, version, configuration revision number, number of VLANs, and last update information. Essential for verifying VTP configuration and troubleshooting VLAN synchronization issues.
vtp domain [name]
Sets the VTP administrative domain name. Switches only synchronize VLAN databases with other switches in the same VTP domain. The domain name is case-sensitive.
vtp version [1|2|3]
Sets the VTP version used by the switch. VTP version 1 is the default and most compatible. Version 2 adds support for Token Ring VLANs and transparent mode forwarding improvements. Version 3 adds support for extended VLANs (1006-4094), private VLANs, and password hashing.
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