Understanding Command Modes
The command set is divided into Exec and Configuration classes. Exec com-
mands generally display information on system status or clear statistical coun-
ters. Configuration commands, on the other hand, modify interface parameters or
enable certain switching functions. These classes are further divided into differ-
ent modes. Available commands depend on the selected mode. You can always
enter a question mark “?” at the prompt to display a list of the commands avail-
able for the current mode. The command classes and associated modes are dis-
played in the following table:
Class Mode
Exec
Normal
Privileged
Configuration*
Global
Interface
Line
VLAN
* You must be in Privileged Exec mode to access any of the configuration
Exec Commands
When you open a new console session on switch with the user name “guest,” the
system enters Normal Exec command mode (or guest mode). Only a limited
number of the commands are available in this mode. You can access all the
commands only in Privileged Exec command mode (or administrator mode). To
access Privilege Exec mode, open a new console session with the user name
“admin,” or enter the enable command (followed by the privileged level pass-
word if so configured). The command prompt displays as “Console>” for Normal
Exec mode and “Console#” for Privileged Exec mode.
To enter Privileged Exec mode, enter the following commands and passwords:
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