The administrative console is a graphical interface that allows you to manage your applications and perform system administration tasks for your WebSphere® Application Server environment. The administrative console runs in your web browser.
Your actions in the console modify a set of XML configuration files.
Starting and logging off the administrative console helps you begin using the console so that you can explore the available options. See also the Reference > Administrator > Settings section of the information center navigation. It lists the settings or properties you can configure.