Administrator Guide

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CLI Basics
This chapter describes the command line interface (CLI) structure and command modes. The Dell
Networking operating software commands are in a text-based interface that allows you to use the launch
commands, change command modes, and configure interfaces and protocols.
Accessing the Command Line
When the system boots successfully, you are positioned on the command line in EXEC mode and not
prompted to log in. You can access the commands through a serial console port or a Telnet session.
When you Telnet into the switch, you are prompted to enter a login name and password.
Example
telnet 172.31.1.53
Trying 172.31.1.53...
Connected to 172.31.1.53.
Escape character is '^]'.
Login: username
Password: Dell>
After you log in to the switch, the prompt provides you with the current command-level information. For
example:
Prompt
CLI Command Mode
Dell>
EXEC
Dell#
EXEC Privilege
Dell(conf)#
CONFIGURATION
NOTE: For a list of all the command mode prompts, refer to the Command Modes section.
Multiple Configuration Users
When a user enters CONFIGURATION mode and another user is already in CONFIGURATION mode, the
Dell Networking operating software generates an alert warning message similar to the following:
Dell#conf
% Warning: The following users are currently configuring the system:
User "" on line console0
User "admin" on line vty0 ( 123.12.1.123 )
User "admin" on line vty1 ( 123.12.1.123 )
CLI Basics
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