Operating instructions

24 Cisco Systems Intelligent Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module
5.1 Cisco Systems IGESM user interface
This section discusses the management interface of the switch module and what each task
represents.
To configure and manage the switch module we can use the following interfaces:
򐂰 Command-line interface (CLI)
You can configure and monitor the switch and switch cluster members from the CLI, which
is accessible through Telnet or SSH from a remote management station. You can also
access the CLI through terminal emulation software on a management station directly
connected to the switch module console port.
Using the CLI provides more details and the results of each required configuration
process. The CLI also has various commands for configuration verification and
troubleshooting that are not covered by the Cluster Management Suite GUI. The CLI is
more flexible for configuring the switch module than the CMS. It is scriptable and requires
less overhead to run.
In addition, the Cisco Systems IGESM includes a console port. The console port is a
service port to which you can connect a terminal or PC in order to configure the software
through the CLI or to troubleshoot problems with the switch.
򐂰 Cluster Management Suite (CMS) (only available in 12.1(14) versions of IOS for the
IGESM)
CMS is a graphical user interface that can be launched from anywhere in your network
through a Web browser, such as Netscape Communicator or Microsoft Internet Explorer.
CMS is installed on the switch, and you do not have to install additional software to the
remote management station. Using CMS, you can configure and monitor a stand-alone
switch, a specific cluster member, or an entire switch cluster. You can also display network
topologies to gather link information and display switch images to modify switch and port
level settings.
CMS is useful for switch module management in small to medium-sized environments and
enables easier setup with its intuitive interface and aids such as Guide mode and wizards.
Note: On a new IGESM, the console port is hidden by a small metal plate that must be
removed to provide access to the connector. This plate is just above port g0/17 on the
rear of the IGESM. The plate can be removed with a small screwdriver or other
appropriate tool.
This port uses the standard Cisco console cable (not supplied with the IGESM), and the
default values to connect are 9600, N, 8 and 1, with no flow control.