In the command 'show running-config', what does 'running-config' represent?

The term 'running-config' in the command 'show running-config' represents a keyword that refers to the current operational configuration of the device. This configuration is stored in the device's memory (RAM) and reflects all the settings that are actively in use. When you issue the command, you are instructing the device to display the settings that are currently applied, including interface configurations, routing protocols, security settings, and more, allowing network administrators to verify and troubleshoot the system's state.

Understanding that 'running-config' is a keyword is essential because it signifies a specific aspect of the command's context. It is not simply a variable (which would imply that it's changeable or holds data), nor is it classified as an interface or a broader command itself. Rather, it plays a critical role in command syntax to specifically direct the device to provide insight into its operational state, thus making it pivotal for effective network management and monitoring.