Level 0: The Absolute Fundamentals

Lab 1: Accessing Switch and Router

Fundamentals of Cisco CLI Management

Task 1: Identify Switch & Router by Icon

In network diagrams, specific symbols are used to represent hardware. Recognizing these is the first step in network design.

Switch

Switch Icon

Router

Router Icon

Task 2: CLI Access and Mode Identification

Cisco switches and routers utilize three primary operational modes to control access and configuration capabilities.

1. User Mode

This initial mode is primarily used to determine basic device access and status. It is identified by the > symbol.

Console
Switch>

2. Privileged EXEC Mode

Used to execute verification and monitoring commands. To enter this mode, use the enable command. It is denoted by the # symbol.

Switch> enable
Switch#

3. Global Configuration Mode

This mode allows for full access for modification and configuration. You must be in Privileged Mode before you can enter Global Configuration.

Command: configure terminal (also accepts conf t or config t).

Switch# configure terminal
Enter configuration commands, one per line. End with CNTL/Z.
Switch(config)#
To exit any mode or return to the previous level, use the exit command.
Next Lab: Basic CLI Navigation & Security