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| 1.5 |  | Important IOS Features |
| 1.5.7 |  | HTTP access to the switch |

The Catalyst Web Interface (CWI) is a browser-based tool that can be used to configure various Cisco switches. Communication between the client and server usually occurs on a TCP/IP connection. The TCP/IP port number for HTTP is 80. In this client/server mode, the client (browser) opens a connection to the server (switch) and sends a request. The server receives the request, sends a response back to the client, and closes the connection.

When logging into the switch via HTTP, a dialog box appears and prompts for the device’s username and password. After providing the correct username and password, the system authenticates the login with the HTTP user-authentication method. The system denies access unless the username and password are valid. In the default configuration, verification is enabled for all users of the CWI. The system validates the login password against the enable password.

Note that the enable password is sent over the network in clear text. Therefore, the CWI is not a tool that should be used in a non-secure environment.

To access the switch using HTTP, enter the switch IP address in the browser Location field (Netscape Communicator) or Address field (Microsoft Internet Explorer), then enter the switch password when prompted.

An opening screen with various options will appear. Click on the Web Console option to enter the mode that will enable switch configurations to be made.