CISCO Switch Configuration Template at work | Switch Commands

2 min read 23 days ago
Published on Aug 08, 2025 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Table of Contents

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on configuring Cisco switches using command-line interface (CLI) commands. Understanding these commands is essential for network administrators and IT professionals who need to set up and manage Cisco networking equipment effectively.

Step 1: Accessing the Switch CLI

  • Connect to the Cisco switch using a console cable or SSH.
  • Use terminal emulation software (like PuTTY or Tera Term) to establish a connection.
  • Enter your credentials to log in.

Step 2: Entering Global Configuration Mode

  • After logging in, you will be in user mode. To enter global configuration mode, type the following command:
    enable
    configure terminal
    
  • This allows you to make configuration changes to the switch.

Step 3: Configuring Basic Switch Settings

  • Set the hostname for the switch to identify it in the network:
    hostname [YourSwitchName]
    
  • Configure a password for console access:
    line console 0
    password [YourPassword]
    login
    
  • Set up a password for privileged EXEC mode:
    enable secret [YourSecretPassword]
    

Step 4: Configuring VLANs

  • Create a VLAN by entering the following command:
    vlan [VLAN_ID]
    name [VLAN_Name]
    
  • Assign ports to the VLAN:
    interface [interface_id]
    switchport mode access
    switchport access vlan [VLAN_ID]
    

Step 5: Configuring Interface Settings

  • To configure an interface, enter:
    interface [interface_id]
    
  • Set the interface description for clarity:
    description [YourDescription]
    
  • Enable the interface:
    no shutdown
    

Step 6: Saving the Configuration

  • After making all necessary configurations, save your changes with the following command:
    write memory
    
  • This ensures all settings are retained after a reboot.

Step 7: Verifying Configuration

  • To check the configured VLANs, use:
    show vlan brief
    
  • To view interface status, type:
    show ip interface brief
    

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to access the Cisco switch CLI, configure basic settings, set up VLANs, configure interface settings, save your configuration, and verify the changes. Practicing these commands will enhance your ability to manage Cisco networking devices effectively. As a next step, consider exploring more advanced configurations, such as routing protocols or security settings, to further develop your networking skills.