After testing the hardware and loading Cisco IOS system image, the router finds and applies the configuration statements. These entries provide the router with details about router-specific attributes, protocol functions, and interface addresses.
However, if the router faces a beginning condition where the router is unable to locate a valid startup-config file, it will enter an initial router configuration mode called the setup mode.
With the setup mode command facility, you can answer questions in the System Configuration Dialog. This facility prompts you for basic configuration information. The answers you enter enable the router to use a sufficient but minimal feature router configuration, which will include
An inventory of interfaces An opportunity to enter global parameters An opportunity to enter interface parameters A setup script review An opportunity to indicate whether you want the router to use this configuration
After you approve setup-mode entries, the router uses the entries as a running configuration. The router also stores the configuration in NVRAM as a new startupconfig. You can start using the router. For additional protocol and interface changes, use the enable mode and enter the command configure.
Concept Questions
Demonstrate your knowledge of these concepts by answering the following questions in the space provided.
Routers can be configured to use one or more IP routing protocols. Identify and briefly explain the different IP routing protocols.
Two IP routing protocols are RIP and IGRP. Compare and contrast these two IP routing protocols.