How does command history work on Cisco IOS devices?

IOS keeps the last 10 commands per session by default; recall them with the up/down arrows or Ctrl+P/Ctrl+N.

Navigating command history:

Default behavior:

• Command history is enabled by default
• Stores the last 10 commands in the buffer
• Buffer is per-session (cleared on disconnect)

Customizing:

• terminal history size [number] — change buffer size for current session
• show history — display all commands in the history buffer

Tip: On a real console connection, the up/down arrow keys may not work if your terminal emulator isn't sending the correct escape sequences. In that case, use Ctrl+P and Ctrl+N instead.