CLI Guide

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

Access the CLI through a serial console port or a Telnet session.

When the system successfully boots, enter the command line in EXEC mode.

NOTE: You must have a password configured on a virtual terminal line before you can Telnet into

the system. Therefore, you must use a console connection when connecting to the system for the

first time.

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 software generates an alert warning message similar to the following:

Dell#conf

% Warning: The following users are currently configuring the system:

CLI Basics