Cisco initial configuration dialog: During the interactive setup dialog, which keystroke immediately terminates (aborts) setup mode and returns you to the CLI?

Introduction / Context:
Cisco devices may launch the initial configuration dialog (setup mode) when no startup configuration is present. Administrators often need to abort this guided process to enter the normal command line and configure the device manually.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Question refers to the interactive setup script, not general configuration mode.
• We need the keystroke that cancels the dialog immediately.
• Common control sequences have different meanings in IOS contexts.

Concept / Approach:
Within the setup dialog, pressing Ctrl+C aborts the script and returns the user to the CLI prompt without completing the questionnaire. Other control sequences are used in different modes (e.g., Ctrl+Z ends configuration submodes to privileged EXEC).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
After pressing Ctrl+C, the device should present the normal CLI prompt (Router> or Router#) depending on mode, confirming the abort.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Ctrl+Z exits configuration submodes to privileged EXEC, not the setup script.
• Ctrl+^ and Ctrl+Shift+^ are not standard abort sequences in this context.
• Esc does not cancel the entire dialog.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing Ctrl+Z with abort; attempting to use break sequences that are platform-specific; not saving configuration after manual setup.

Final Answer:
Ctrl+C