HP BL e-Class Safe Mode, Interconnect Switch Replacement Scenario using a "Safe Mode" Configuration

XML Configuration

Safe Mode

When inserting a new or replacement interconnect switch into a production environment, you must be certain that the interconnect switch configuration is compatible with the production network. Compatibility with a network can include items such as:

•Non-corruption of the network in general—Corruption, such as loops, can occur within the network without enabling Spanning Tree Protocol (STP).

•Security of connected network entities—Security issues can arise as a result of configuration items, including such attributes as subnet-to-subnet communication and blade-to-blade communication where communication between these entities is not acceptable.

•Security of the interconnect switch itself—These attributes include controlled access to the interconnect switch such as user-password and SNMP read-write community string.

•Other configuration attributes such as VLAN settings.

The interconnect switch factory default, as well as previously configured interconnect switches, may not have configurations that are compatible with the production network.

If the configuration of the interconnect switch is not compatible with the production network, the interconnect switch may be pre-configured in a private network environment

There are several preconfiguration options. For example, the interconnect switch may be configured for its exact position in the production network. Another option is to partially configure the interconnect switch so that is is compatible with multiple positions in the production network. The configuration can then be completed for the interconnect switch through scripting, manual operation, or a configuration download. This more globally appropriate configuration is called a "safe mode" configuration. Note that a single safe mode configuration may or may not be appropriate for all production environments. A spare interconnect switch, however, configured to a "safe mode" may be appropriate for multiple production environments.

Interconnect Switch Replacement Scenario using a "Safe Mode" Configuration

When an in-production interconnect switch fails:

1.Remove the failed interconnect switch.

2.Insert the spare interconnect switch that was previously configured for safe operation.

3.Upgrade to new firmware if appropriate.

4.Download the correct configuration for that particular interconnect switch.

H-2 HP ProLiant BL e-Class GbE Interconnect Switch User Guide