Hence, backing up the configuration files of Cisco devices is crucial for disaster recovery, version control, regulatory compliance, ease of deployment, and improved maintenance.
Benefits of Backing Up Configuration Files
Backing up the configuration files of Cisco devices provides several benefits.
Disaster Recovery: In the event of a device failure, having a backup of the configuration file allows for quick recovery and minimizes downtime.Version Control: Keeping a backup of configuration files enables you to revert to a previous version in case of configuration changes that lead to unexpected behavior.Compliance: Some industries have regulations that require organizations to keep backups of critical systems and configuration files.Ease of Deployment: When deploying multiple similar devices, having a backup of the configuration file can save time and effort in configuring each device individually.Improved Maintenance: Backing up the configuration files of a device allows for efficient maintenance and upgrade activities, as the configuration can be easily restored after an upgrade or maintenance.
Types of Configuration Files in Cisco Devices
There are two types of configuration files in Cisco devices, the running configuration file and the startup configuration file. The running configuration file is the configuration file that is currently in use by the device. It is stored in the device’s RAM and is lost when the device is restarted or powered off. The startup configuration file is the configuration file that is loaded when the device is started. It is stored in non-volatile memory, such as NVRAM or flash memory, and is persistent across reboots and power cycles.
Steps to backup the configuration files from a Cisco device
In this demo, let’s backup the configuration file from a router using Cisco Packet Tracer.
Steps to restore the configuration files to a Cisco device
In conclusion, backing up the configuration files of Cisco devices is an essential practice for ensuring the stability, security, and availability of your network. By understanding the types of configuration files, the benefits of backing up configuration files, and the process of backing up and restoring configuration files, network administrators can ensure that their network operates optimally and can quickly recover in case of a failure. Automating config backups can be easily accomplished through the use of network management systems. One highly recommended option is SolarWinds NCM. This NMS allows for the scheduling of config backups, with the downloaded configs being stored in the desired location. To get started with using Solarwinds NCM for automated backups, simply follow the instructions provided in this link.
