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Console cable

As explained in Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 1 Fundamentals and Protocols

A console cable is a cable that connects a computer to a network device's console port for local management access.

A console cable connects a computer directly to a network device’s console port for local CLI management. It requires physical proximity because the console connection does not use the network. section 5.1.2

Choose and use the connection according to the device and computer ports:

  • Use a USB cable with the correct connector types for a USB console port. section 5.1.2
  • Use a rollover cable for an RJ45 console port; its pins reverse end-to-end, from 1–8 through 4–5. section 5.1.2
  • Connect to only one console port at a time, then use a terminal emulator such as PuTTY. section 5.1.2

PuTTY serial settings

For a console session, configure 9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, and no flow control, then open the serial connection.

How Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 1 Fundamentals and Protocols covers it

How deep it goes
Explains port types, cable wiring, connection limits, terminal software, and serial settings, but not network-based access procedures.
Examples
Uses USB Mini-B and RJ45 console ports, rollover pin mappings, and PuTTY serial settings.
What it assumes
Assumes physical access to the device and computer while defining console ports, cable choices, and terminal-emulator use.
What you can do after
Operate a local Cisco CLI session by selecting the cable, connecting one console port, and configuring terminal-emulator settings.
How it connects
Connects console ports with the CLI, terminal emulators, rollover cables, Telnet, and SSH.
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