51 - 238 CCNA 2: Routers and Routing Basics v3.1 Instructor Guide – Module 5 Copyright © 2004, Cisco Systems, Inc.
Module 5: Managing Cisco IOS Software Overview
When teaching Module 5, emphasize the importance of the router boot sequence. The router
boot sequence verifies the proper operation of the router hardware, identifies the correct IOS
and configuration file, and shows the location of each. This process must be understood to
properly configure and operate all Cisco routers. Before students begin Module 5, they should
be able to identify the purpose and operation of the IOS, use the show version command,
and troubleshoot basic connectivity issues. In this section, students will learn about the Cisco
IOS File System and how to use a variety of Cisco IOS software source options. Students will
also learn how to use commands to load Cisco IOS software onto a router, maintain backup
files, and upgrade Cisco IOS software.
Module Caution: Make sure students fully understand how to copy and paste configurations
into a router. Make sure that they understand the importance of configuration management,
especially backups.
Students who complete this module should be able to perform the following tasks:
• Identify the stages of the router boot sequence
• Describe how a Cisco device locates and loads the Cisco IOS
• Use the boot system command
• Identify the configuration register values
• Describe the files used by the Cisco IOS and their functions
• List the locations of the different file types on the router
• Describe the parts of the IOS name
• Use TFTP and copy-and-paste to save and restore configuration files
• Use TFTP to load an IOS image
• Use XModem to load an IOS image
• Use show commands to verify the file system