Command Line Reference Guide

CLI Basics

This chapter describes the command line interface (CLI) structure and command modes. The Dell

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 '^]'.

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 System (OS) 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 )

User "Irene" on line vty3 ( 123.12.1.321 )

Dell#conf

CLI Basics