InterfacesPrivileged EXEC

clear counters

Resets interface counters (e.g., input/output errors, packets) to zero, typically used to clear statistics before monitoring or troubleshooting.

Syntax·Privileged EXEC

clear counters

When to Use This Command

Clearing counters on a WAN interface before testing link quality after a circuit repair.
Resetting counters on an access port to verify new switch configuration is working correctly.
Clearing counters on a router interface before running a throughput test to get accurate fresh data.
Resetting counters on all interfaces to start a clean baseline for daily performance monitoring.

Command Examples

Clear counters on a specific interface

clear counters gigabitethernet 0/0/1

Clear "show interface" counters on [GigabitEthernet0/0/1] [confirm]
Router#

Prompts for confirmation before clearing counters on the specified interface. After confirmation, counters for that interface are reset to zero.

Clear counters on all interfaces

clear counters

Clear "show interface" counters on all interfaces [confirm]
Router#

Prompts for confirmation to clear counters on every interface. Useful for a fresh start across the device.

Understanding the Output

The 'clear counters' command does not produce a table output; instead, it prompts for confirmation. After execution, subsequent 'show interfaces' commands will show all counters (e.g., packets input/output, errors, CRC, collisions) reset to zero. This is useful for isolating transient issues: clear counters, reproduce the problem, then check counters for new errors. A clean baseline helps distinguish historical issues from current ones.

CCNA Exam Tips

CCNA exam may ask which command resets interface statistics without reloading the interface.

Remember that 'clear counters' does not affect interface status (up/down) or configuration.

Know that 'clear counters' requires privileged EXEC mode (enable).

Be aware that clearing counters is irreversible; you lose historical data.

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Using 'clear counters' in user EXEC mode instead of privileged EXEC mode — command not found.

Mistake 2: Forgetting to confirm the prompt, leaving counters uncleared.

Mistake 3: Assuming 'clear counters' resets interface state (e.g., line protocol) — it only resets statistics.

Related Commands

show interfaces

Displays detailed status and statistics for all interfaces or a specific interface, used to verify interface operational state, errors, and performance.

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