Reference Guide

CLI Basics | 23
Command Modes
To navigate to various CLI modes, you need to use specific commands to launch each
mode. Navigation to these modes is discussed in the following sections.
EXEC Mode
When you initially log in to the switch, by default, you are logged into the EXEC
mode. This mode allows you to view settings and to enter the EXEC Privilege mode
to configure the device. While you are in the EXEC mode, the
> prompt is displayed
following the “hostname” prompt, as described above, which is “
FTOS” by default.
You can change it with the
hostname command. Refer to the command hostname.
Each mode prompt is preceded by the hostname.
EXEC Privilege Mode
The enable command accesses the EXEC Privilege mode. If an administrator has
configured an “Enable” password, you will be prompted to enter it here.
The EXEC Privilege mode allows you to access all commands accessible in EXEC
mode, plus other commands, such as to clear ARP entries and IP addresses. In
addition, you can access the CONFIGURATION mode to configure interfaces,
routes, and protocols on the switch. While you are logged in to the EXEC Privilege
mode, the # prompt is displayed.
CONFIGURATION Mode
In the EXEC Privilege mode, use the configure command to enter the
CONFIGURATION mode and configure routing protocols and access interfaces.
To enter the CONFIGURATION mode:
1. Verify that you are logged in to the EXEC Privilege mode.
2. Enter the
configure command. The prompt changes to include (conf).
From this mode, you can enter INTERFACE by using the interface command.
INTERFACE Mode
Use the INTERFACE mode to configure interfaces or IP services on those interfaces.
An interface can be physical (for example, a Gigabit Ethernet port) or virtual (for
example, the Null interface).
Note: Some of the following modes are not available on C-Series or S-Series.