Understanding Command Modes - Cisco 2611XM Software Configuration Manual

Understanding Cisco IOS Software Basics

Understanding Command Modes

The Cisco IOS user interface is divided into different modes. Each command mode permits you to
configure different components on your router. The commands available at any given time depend on
which mode you are currently in. Entering a question mark (?) at the prompt displays a list of commands
available for each command mode.
Table 1-2
Command Mode
User EXEC
Privileged EXEC
Global configuration
Interface configuration
Timesaver Each command mode restricts you to a subset of commands. If you are having trouble entering a
command, check the prompt, and enter the question mark (?) for a list of available commands. You
might be in the wrong command mode or using the wrong syntax.
In the following example, notice how the prompt changes after each command to indicate a new
command mode:
Router> enable
Password: <enable password>
Router# configure terminal
Router(config)# interface serial 0/0
Router(config-if)# line 0
Router(config-line)# controller t1 0
Router(config-controller)# exit
Router(config)# exit
Router#
%SYS-5-CONFIG_I: Configured from console by console
The last message is normal and does not indicate an error. Press Return to get the
Software Configuration Guide For Cisco 2600 Series, Cisco 3600 Series, and Cisco 3700 Series Routers
1-14
Table 1-2
Common Command Modes
Access Method
Log in.
From user EXEC mode,
enter the enable
command.
From the privileged
EXEC mode, enter the
configure terminal
command.
From the global
configuration mode,
enter the interface type
number command, such
as interface serial 0/0.
Chapter 1 Understanding Interface Numbering and Cisco IOS Software Basics
lists the most common command modes.
Router Prompt
Displayed
Router>
Router#
Router (config)#
Router (config-if)#
Exit Method
Use the logout
command.
To exit to user EXEC
mode, use the disable,
exit, or logout
command.
To exit to privileged
EXEC mode, use the
exit or end command,
or press Ctrl-z.
To exit to global
configuration mode, use
the exit command.
To exit directly to
privileged EXEC mode,
press Ctrl-z.
prompt.
Router#
OL-1957-03