Which Command Enables Password Authentication For User EXEC Mode Access on A Switch?

Introduction to User Mode

In Cisco networking, securing access to network devices is crucial to prevent unauthorized users from making changes to configurations. One of the most basic security measures is setting a password for User EXEC Mode (also known as "user mode") on a Cisco switch.

This article will explain:

• The command used to enable password authentication for User EXEC Mode
• The difference between login, password, and secret commands
• Best practices for securing a Cisco switch
• How Study4Pass helps in preparing for the Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam

Understanding User EXEC Mode

Before diving into the command, it's essential to understand User EXEC Mode in Cisco devices.

• User EXEC Mode (>) is the first access level when logging into a Cisco device.
• It allows basic monitoring commands like ping, traceroute, and show but does not permit configuration changes.
• To enter Privileged EXEC Mode (#), the user must enter the enable command (if a password is set).

Securing User EXEC Mode with a password ensures that only authorized users can access the device.

The Command to Enable Password Authentication for User EXEC Mode

The command used to set a password for User EXEC Mode on a Cisco switch is:

line console 0

password <password>

login

Explanation of the Command

1. line console 0 – Enters the configuration mode for the console port (physical access).
2. password <password> – Sets the password for console access (e.g., password Cisco123).
3. login – Enables password authentication for the console.

Without the login command, the password will not be enforced.

Securing Telnet and SSH Access (VTY Lines)

For remote access via Telnet or SSH, a password must also be set on the VTY (Virtual Terminal) lines:

line vty 0 15

password <password>

login

• line vty 0 15 – Configures all 16 virtual terminal lines (0 to 15).
• password <password> – Sets the password for remote access.
• login – Enforces password authentication.

Difference Between password and secret

Cisco devices support two types of passwords:

Best Practice: Use enable secret Instead of enable password

The enable secret command encrypts the password, making it more secure:

enable secret <password>

This command sets the password for Privileged EXEC Mode (#).

How to Encrypt All Passwords in Configuration?

By default, passwords are stored in plain text in the configuration. To encrypt them, use:

service password-encryption

This command applies weak encryption (Type 7) to all passwords. However, enable secret uses stronger Type 5 (MD5) or Type 9 (SCRYPT) encryption.

Verifying Password Configuration

To check if passwords are set correctly, use:

show running-config | include password|secret|login

This displays all password-related configurations.

Why is Password Security Important for CCNA 200-301 Exam?

The Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam tests candidates on:

• Device access security
• Password best practices
• Configuring local authentication

Understanding these concepts is crucial for real-world networking and passing the exam.

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Final Words

The command to enable password authentication for User EXEC Mode on a Cisco switch is:

line console 0

password <password>

login

Securing network devices with passwords is a fundamental skill for the CCNA 200-301 exam. Using Study4Pass ensures you have the best study materials, practice tests, and expert guidance to pass the exam on your first attempt.

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Sample Questions for Cisco 200-301 Exam Questions

Actual exam question from Cisco's 200-301 Dumps.

1. Which command enables password authentication for User EXEC mode access on a Cisco switch?

a) enable password

b) password exec

c) line console 0 followed by password and login

d) username password

2. What is the correct sequence of commands to secure User EXEC mode with a password on a switch?

a) enable secret, login, password

b) line vty 0 4, password, login

c) line console 0, password <password>, login

d) service password-encryption

3. Which mode must you enter first to configure a password for User EXEC access via the console?

a) Privileged EXEC mode

b) Global configuration mode

c) Interface configuration mode

d) VLAN configuration mode

4. If a switch does not have a password set for User EXEC mode, what happens when accessing the console?

a) It requires a secret password

b) It allows access without authentication

c) It locks the user out after three attempts

d) It asks for an SSH key

5. Which command ensures that the configured password is required for console login?

a) login local

b) login

c) exec-timeout

d) password-encryption