HSRP Fundamentals: A Virtual Default Gateway

Bundle lab · $29.99

Build a fault-tolerant default gateway on a single LAN using HSRP. Two routers share one virtual IP so a host keeps the same default route even if one router fails. You will configure basic HSRP group 1 with a shared VIP, verify active/standby roles, and confirm the host can ping the virtual gateway.

Learning objectives

• Explain how HSRP provides a resilient default gateway using a shared virtual IP and MAC
• Configure HSRP group 1 with a common virtual IP on two routers in the same VLAN
• Observe deterministic active/standby selection with equal priorities
• Verify HSRP operation using show standby and show standby brief
• Validate host connectivity to the virtual default gateway

Troubleshooting focus

• Both routers must use the same HSRP group and identical virtual IP on the same interface/VLAN
• Do not assign the virtual IP as a physical interface address on either router
• Ensure the switch ports are in the correct access VLAN and up/up
• If the host cannot ping the VIP, verify ARP and the HSRP state (Active/Standby present)
• Mismatched masks or shutdown interfaces prevent HSRP from forming properly