What is the lowest-level access mode in Cisco IOS?

User EXEC mode is the lowest-level access mode in Cisco IOS. This mode provides limited access to the device’s features and functions. When a user first connects to a Cisco device, they are placed in User EXEC mode, where they can execute basic commands like displaying system information or checking the status of interfaces. However, they cannot make any configuration changes or execute more advanced commands that are available in higher modes.

In contrast, Privileged EXEC mode allows for more extensive control over the device, including the ability to enter configuration commands. Global configuration mode, again, is a higher level where actual changes to the device's configuration can be made. ROMMON mode is a low-level mode used for recovery purposes and is not considered an access mode for operational tasks. Thus, the distinction of User EXEC mode as the lowest-level access mode is clear, as it serves primarily for basic monitoring rather than configuration.