Basic Router & Switch IOS configuration commands - CCNA beginner

Summary

In the second week of the Cisco Introduction to Networks course, students learn to navigate and configure routers and switches. Key commands are introduced, such as entering user exec and privileged exec modes, as well as global configuration mode. Students practice essential tasks like setting passwords, configuring interfaces, and using show commands to display configurations. The tutorial emphasizes command shortcuts and best practices for network setup, including securing access and enabling interfaces. This foundational knowledge is crucial for effective network management and troubleshooting.

Takeaways

• 😀 Enter User Exec mode upon logging into the router, indicated by the '>' prompt.
• 😀 Use the '?' command to list available commands in User Exec mode.
• 😀 Transition to Privileged Exec mode with the 'enable' command, changing the prompt to '#' and granting access to more commands.
• 😀 The 'configure terminal' command enters Global Configuration mode for setting up router configurations.
• 😀 Use 'show running-config' (or 'show run') to view the current configuration of the router.
• 😀 Set the router's hostname using the 'hostname [name]' command to easily identify the device.
• 😀 Implement security by configuring the 'enable secret [password]' command for a hashed password to access Privileged Exec mode.
• 😀 Activate interfaces with the 'no shutdown' command after assigning IP addresses in interface configuration mode.
• 😀 Configure line passwords for virtual terminals and console access using 'line vty 0 15' and 'line console 0'.
• 😀 Use the 'interface vlan1' command on switches to assign IP addresses for remote management.

Q & A

What is the first mode a user enters upon logging into a Cisco router?

The first mode is User Exec Mode, indicated by the prompt '>'.

How can a user view all available commands in User Exec Mode?

By typing the command '?', the user can see a list of all available commands.

What command is used to enter Privileged Exec Mode?

The command 'enable' is used to enter Privileged Exec Mode.

What is the purpose of the 'configure terminal' command?

'configure terminal' takes the user to Global Configuration Mode, where most router configurations are done.

How can a user return to Privileged Exec Mode from Global Configuration Mode?

The user can type 'exit' or 'end' to return to Privileged Exec Mode.

What does the command 'line vty 0 15' do?

'line vty 0 15' configures virtual terminal lines for Telnet and SSH access on the router.

What is the significance of the 'no shutdown' command in interface configuration?

'no shutdown' activates the specified interface, bringing it up for use.

What does the command 'show running-config' provide?

'show running-config' displays the current configuration of the router, including active settings and parameters.

How can a user save the current configuration to ensure it is retained after a reboot?

The command 'copy running-config startup-config' saves the current configuration to NVRAM.

What is the difference between 'enable password' and 'enable secret'?

'enable password' sets a plaintext password, while 'enable secret' sets an encrypted password that takes priority.