Configuration management

Introduction

A configuration file contains a set of software feature settings for the device. You can save software feature settings to a configuration file so the configuration can survive a reboot. You can also back up configuration files to a server for future use. For example, import a configuration file to multiple devices that share the same configuration.

Configuration types

Factory defaults

Factory defaults are basic settings that came with the device. The device starts up with the factory defaults if no startup configuration files are available.

Startup configuration

The device uses the startup configuration to configure software features during startup. After the device starts up, you can specify the configuration file to be loaded at the next startup. If no startup configuration files are available, the device starts up with the factory defaults.

Running configuration

The running configuration takes effect while the device is operating. It includes unchanged startup settings and new settings. The running configuration is stored in memory and is cleared at a device reboot or power-off. To use the running configuration after a power cycling or reboot, save it to a configuration file.

Configuration backup

Use this feature to back up the running configuration on the device to a local configuration file or to a configuration file on an FTP or TFTP server. The device supports immediate backup and periodic backup.

You can use the backup configuration files for configuration rollback.

Configuration rollback

Use this feature to replace the running configuration with the configuration in a configuration file. The configuration file can be saved on the local device or on an FTP or TFTP server. If you use a configuration file on an FTP or TFTP server for configuration rollback, you must specify the rollback time.

Restrictions and guidelines

Restoring the factory defaults removes all configurations you have made from the device.

If server-based backup or rollback is used, make sure the device can reach the remote FTP or TFTP server.

Manage the running configuration

Back up the running configuration

1.     Click the System tab.

2.     In the navigation pane, select Maintenance > Configuration Management.

3.     Click Back up current configuration.

4.     Configure the configuration backup parameters.

Table 1 Configuration backup configuration items

5.     Click OK.

Roll back the configuration

1.     Click the System tab.

2.     In the navigation pane, select Maintenance > Configuration Management.

3.     Click Configure rollback.

4.     Select the rollback file location:

¡     To use a configuration file saved on the local storage device, select Local device.

¡     To use a configuration file saved on a remote file server, select Server.

5.     Roll back the configuration or schedule a rollback:

¡     If you are using a local configuration file for rollback, specify a local directory in the Location field, click Access to the file to show configuration files in the directory, identify the configuration file you are using, and then click its Roll Back link to roll back the configuration.

¡     If you are using a configuration file on a remote server for rollback, configure the parameters as shown in Table 2 to schedule a rollback, and then click OK.

Table 2 Configuration items for server-based rollback