Which of the following are valid command modes in Cisco IOS? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A,B,C,D
Detailed Explanation: Cisco IOS uses a hierarchical command mode structure that allows administrators to perform various tasks ranging from basic monitoring to advanced configuration changes. Understanding the different modes is fundamental for effective device management and is a common topic on the CCNA exam. A. User EXEC Mode: This is the first mode a user enters upon accessing a Cisco device. It offers a limited set of commands that are useful for basic monitoring and troubleshooting. The prompt typically appears as “Router>” or “Switch>”. In this mode, users cannot make configuration changes; it is designed for read-only access. B. Privileged EXEC Mode: Also known as “enable mode,” this mode provides access to a much larger set of commands, including those required for advanced monitoring and troubleshooting. The prompt changes to “Router#” or “Switch#”. Accessing this mode usually requires an enable password. It is the gateway to configuration modes and other higher-level functions. C. Global Configuration Mode: This mode allows administrators to make system-wide configuration changes. Once in privileged EXEC mode, the command “configure terminal” transitions the user into global configuration mode, where the prompt typically changes to “Router(config)#”. In this mode, you can configure various settings that affect the device as a whole. D. Interface Configuration Mode: Interface configuration mode is a sub-mode of global configuration mode that is used to configure individual interfaces. For example, entering “interface GigabitEthernet0/1” from global configuration mode changes the prompt to “Router(config-if)#”. In this mode, you can configure IP addresses, speed, duplex settings, and other interface-specific parameters. E. Router Configuration Mode (Incorrect): While many might informally refer to “router configuration mode,” Cisco IOS does not have a distinct mode by that name. Configuration changes to routing protocols or other features are made within the global configuration mode or within the respective sub-modes (e.g., router ospf 1 mode, which is a sub-mode of global configuration mode). There is no separate “router configuration mode” that exists independently. Why Understanding IOS Modes Is Important: Knowing the different IOS command modes is essential for: Security: Limiting access to configuration changes by controlling who can access privileged modes. Troubleshooting: Quickly identifying the current mode from the prompt helps avoid mistakes when issuing commands. Efficiency: Understanding the mode hierarchy streamlines the configuration process, enabling administrators to navigate quickly between modes. Conclusion: The valid IOS command modes include User EXEC mode, Privileged EXEC mode, Global Configuration mode, and Interface Configuration mode (Options A, B, C, and D). The term “Router Configuration mode” is not a standard Cisco IOS mode, making Option E incorrect. Mastery of these modes is a foundational skill for network professionals and a frequent topic on the CCNA exam.
This CCNA practice question helps students prepare for Cisco networking certification exams by testing knowledge of network fundamentals, routing, switching, and network security concepts.