How to configure basic passwords and a hostname on a Cisco switch

Today I will show you how to configure basic passwords and a hostname on a Cisco switch.  For this tutorial you are going to have to open up a console session to your switch.

First we need to set an enable password:

Switch>enable

Switch#configure terminal

Switch(config)#enable secret c7ed2bd92a (sets enable password)

Now we need to set the hostname of the switch:

Switch(config)#hostname Comtech1 (sets the switch hostname to Comtech1)

Next we need to configure console access:

Comtech1(config)#line console 0

Comtech1(config-line)#password bob2 (sets console password to bob2)

Comtech1(config-line)#login

Comtech1(config-line)exit

We will now set passwords for ssh and telent access to the switch:

Comtech1(config)#line vty 0 15

Comtech1(config-line)#password BigBlue (sets ssh and telnet password to BigBlue)

Comtech1(config-line)#login

Comtech1(config-line)#exit

Comtech1(config)#exit

For the changes to take effect we have to save them in the startup-config file so:

Comtech1#copy running-config startup-config

And that’s it.  Next time you connect to your switch either through a console, shh or telnet session you will be asked for the relevant passwords.

About the Author

Hi I am Chris the owner of ComTech. I provide IT Support, Laptop repairs and Computer repairs to both personal and business clients in and around Stirling. For a list of what I can offer you why not visit my website www.comtech247.net where you will find my blog, testimonials, services and much more.  Start supporting a local business today so I can start supporting you.

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