Whether you're trying to troubleshoot a difficult problem, trying to clean up your network or just trying to understand some of the things you see in your routers and switches, one of the best things you can do is use Cisco’s Output Interpreter Tool.
To capture your tech-support file do the following:
In HyperTerminal, click Transfer
Capture Text
Click browse, click on the desktop, and type in Tech-support
Click save, and then click start
From Router# type show tech-support
Click Transfer, Capture Text, Stop
The show tech-support runs a little script that gives you just about every important show command there is, all at once. Next, browse to Cisco's Output Interpreter tool. Paste your show commands into the window, or upload your file and submit it. The tool will evaluate everything and explain everything it finds. It breaks it down for you by Errors, Warnings, Information and Helpful References.
Of course, if you've got a good idea what your problem is, you can submit just a specific show command and save yourself some time. And if you're just curious about one of the many cryptic lines on most show commands, the Output Interpreter tool is good at explaining what they mean, and referring you to more detailed information.
Note that you may need to register for a free CCO account in order to use some of the tools that the Output Interpreter will direct you such as the Subnet Calculator Tool.
Written by: Sarah Giard: Cisco Curricula Practice Owner, TEKsystems