Tools: Layer 2 Trace traces the physical network path from one device to another. Using previously discovered network connectivity data, the Layer 2 Trace tool finds the path between the two devices and then displays each network interface that is used to build the path. The trace tool also allows for a quick check of the status and availability of each step along the layer 2 path.

To use the Layer 2 Trace tool:

  • Source Device. Browse for a select a source device. This is the starting point for the layer 2 trace.
  • Destination Device. Browse for the endpoint of the layer 2 trace.
  • Trace/Ping. Show trace result records/test connectivity. Result records take the following format:
    • Device. Lists the devices that the network path traverses.
    • IP Address. Lists the IP address of each device on the network path.
    • Interface Name. Lists the interfaces that the network path traverses.
    • Ping Status. Lists the device ping status.
      Tip: After a trace is completed, you can click Ping to view the current status of the layer 2 path. This tool pings each device identified in the trace and uses SNMP to query the interface for its status.