In what order must an administrator travel through IOS modes to configure a switch console port with a password?

To configure a switch console port with a password, the administrator must first enter the User EXEC mode and then transition to Global Configuration mode. This process is essential because the Global Configuration mode is where various device-wide settings, including those for console access, can be established.

In User EXEC mode, access to the device's basic monitoring commands is available, but configuration commands are not. Switching to Global Configuration mode allows the administrator to execute commands that affect the overall configuration of the switch, including setting passwords for console access.

Setting a password in the console port requires commands that are only accessible in Global Configuration mode, making this transition necessary. This path ensures that the administrator can implement security measures and operational configurations effectively on the switch.