Reference Guide

CLI Basics | 21
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.