What do I need to consider when copying a configuration file over to a new switch?
I am adding a switch to our network. I am going to connect a C3560-IPBASEK9-M to an existing C2960-LANBASE-M.
At first, I tried loading an existing configuration from a similar switch to the 3560. This is a fairly simple network and all switches are configured similiarly. Simply copying the config did not work.
After some reading, I learned that it would probably be best not to copy over the NTP commands, so I can enter them, allowing the new switch to set its own ‘ntp clock-period’.
I learned that aside from deleting any existing vlan.dat file, I should start the switch in ‘transparent mode’ and then enter the vtp domain and password and set it to client mode.
I read that I should not use ‘spanning tree’ or ‘portfast’ on the ports connecting the two switches. (Not that I was)
Although I believe both switches have auto-sensing and don’t need a cross-over cable, I think I will use one anyway.
I figured out on my own, that it would probably be best to create any banners manually. It seems the control character causes some issues if copied.
Is it okay to copy over the mls qos commands as is?
Are there any other considerations I should make when copying a config file from one switch to another?
At first, I tried loading an existing configuration from a similar switch to the 3560. This is a fairly simple network and all switches are configured similiarly. Simply copying the config did not work.
After some reading, I learned that it would probably be best not to copy over the NTP commands, so I can enter them, allowing the new switch to set its own ‘ntp clock-period’.
I learned that aside from deleting any existing vlan.dat file, I should start the switch in ‘transparent mode’ and then enter the vtp domain and password and set it to client mode.
I read that I should not use ‘spanning tree’ or ‘portfast’ on the ports connecting the two switches. (Not that I was)
Although I believe both switches have auto-sensing and don’t need a cross-over cable, I think I will use one anyway.
I figured out on my own, that it would probably be best to create any banners manually. It seems the control character causes some issues if copied.
Is it okay to copy over the mls qos commands as is?
Are there any other considerations I should make when copying a config file from one switch to another?
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ASKER
For got to mention that next time I will confirm I am in conf mode.
Again, thanks.
Again, thanks.
you mentioned "crossover cable". it should be used only if you are connecting old (10+) years hardware, that is not able to do auto-mdi. (and at 10 or 100 Mbit). if at least one of your switches is auto-mdi capable, or if they connect at 1G speeds (or higher), do not use crossover cables. at 1G or higher speeds all four twisted pairs in cable are used, so you will need a specially crafted crossver (that crosses all 4 pairs). however, since 1998 all 1G interfaces are required to have auto-mdi capabilities. so, stick with stright cables.
ASKER
Thanks for the tip corower. I did not realize that crossover cables used for that application are different.
Would you say it is best to copy the modified config file from TFTP to Start, and then reload the switch?
Would you say it is best to copy the modified config file from TFTP to Start, and then reload the switch?
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You can copy from tftp to startup config but not recommended. Open the file in text, copy everything and paste it in global config mode. The switch will accept acceptable configurations and reject the other. This is the safest way to duplicate settings between switches.
All the best
All the best
ASKER
thank you
ASKER
does it matter what the current running-config is before I paste the new one?
Yes and no
Similar entries will be replaced while dissimilar entries are added. If you plan to duplicate the settings on both switches, you may want to erase startup config, reboot then paste your config. That way, you are starting on a new slate
Similar entries will be replaced while dissimilar entries are added. If you plan to duplicate the settings on both switches, you may want to erase startup config, reboot then paste your config. That way, you are starting on a new slate
ASKER
Would you say it is best to copy the modified config file from TFTP to Start, and then reload the switch?