Routers are devices that forward network traffic along optimized paths. The software in a router, otherwise known as Cisco IOS® Software, provides the capability to do this. Cisco IOS® Software, the Cisco proprietary networking software, provides a common IP fabric, functionality, and command-line interface (CLI) across all router platforms. In this module, you will become familar with how Cisco IOS Software works, and learn the commands to configure and troubleshoot different functions on a router.

After completing this module, you should be able to:

• Identify Cisco IOS Software images, memory, and the platform on which the image runs.
• Evaluate router status using fundamental troubleshooting commands.
• Navigate between the user levels and command modes on a Cisco Router.
• Use the CLI context-sensitive help system.
• Use the navigation hot keys.
• Configure basic router settings to assist in troubleshooting.
• Understand configuration registers and how to use them.
• Troubleshoot the router capabilities for logging, timestamps, debugs, and flash images.
• Identify memory requirements.
• Configure a comm server.
• Save and reload router configurations.
• Recover a lost password.
• Update the software image on a router.
• Boot system images.
• Use the Cisco Discovery Protocol (formerly known as CDP) to gather basic information about the topology of a network.
  

The Configuration Labs are hands-on exercises that focus on specific configuration processes. These labs ask you to configure specific commands on various Cisco routers, to reinforce concepts and commands taught in the tutorial. The labs rely on the Cisco interactive, Java-based, internetworking simulation environment. You will be provided with step-by-step instructions to help you through the exercises. The configuration labs are denoted by the following icon. Simply click on the icon to view the lab.

Lab 1: Navigating Cisco IOS
Lab 2: Cisco IOS CLI Editor Features
Lab 3: Configuration Register Settings
Lab 4: Router Basics
Lab 5: Setting Timestamps/Debugs
Lab 6: Console/Aux/Vty Settings
Lab 7: Comm Server Configuration
Lab 8: Password Recovery
Lab 9: Downloading Software
Lab 10: Flash Partitioning
Lab 11: Booting System Images
Lab 12: Cisco Discovery Protocol



This module includes various interactive media that complement or help ensure that you understand the material just viewed. These features and their icons are explained in the following sections. While proceeding through the module, just click an icon to launch the associated learning object.

Interactive  Labs	Interactive labs use Java-based simulation technology to provide hands-on practice for your configuration and troubleshooting skills on Cisco routers and switches.
	A Configuration Lab focuses on the configuration process. These exercises allow you to configure specific commands in a simulated network environment. Step-by-step instructions help guide you through these labs.
	A Challenge Lab tests your troubleshooting skills in identifying and resolving problems related to incorrect configurations of the technology covered. These exercises provide minimal instruction, but offer help if you need it.
Pop  Quizzes	Pop Quizzes allow you to instantly check your understanding of concepts presented in the lesson and provide immediate feedback.
VoDs	Videos on demand (VoDs) are instructional video presentations that consist of slides and audio, and may also contain a video of the presenter. VoDs complement and reinforce the lesson by providing finer detail, thereby giving the student a more granular understanding of a topic. The different format also enhances the learning experience and helps increase retention of the material.
NetBits	NetBits are relatively short animated presentations that introduce a Cisco product, teach how a networking technology functions, or depict how to troubleshoot specific networking problems. NetBits are designed with animations, pictures, text, audio, video, and many other tools to reinforce the concepts being taught. A typical NetBit can be completed within 20 minutes or less.
Sidebars	Sidebars contain additional interesting information that adds to your knowledge or enhances your understanding of the topic.

 Next, go to Understanding the Cisco IOS Software.

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