What mode allows the configuration of device settings in Cisco IOS?

Global configuration mode allows the configuration of device settings in Cisco IOS. When a network administrator enters this mode, they gain access to configure various aspects of the device, including interfaces, routing protocols, and other global parameters. This mode is essential for making changes that affect the behavior and capabilities of the device as a whole.

To access global configuration mode, the administrator typically transitions from privileged EXEC mode by using the command "configure terminal." In this mode, they can issue specific commands tailored to modify settings directly on the device.

Other modes, while important in their own rights, do not offer the same level of configuration capabilities. For example, user EXEC mode provides basic, limited access primarily for monitoring and basic commands but does not allow for configuration changes. Privileged EXEC mode allows access to more advanced commands and some diagnostics but still requires an additional step to enter global configuration mode for making changes. Routing configuration mode is a sub-mode of global configuration mode where specific routing protocols can be configured, and it does not encompass the broader device settings that global configuration mode allows.