Perform software upgrade or downgrade using TFTP, FTP, xmodem, tftpdnld, or USB Storage

Question 1

How do you initiate a software upgrade using TFTP on a Cisco device?

Answer 1

1. Ensure the TFTP server is running and the firmware image file is in the TFTP root directory.
2. On the Cisco device, enter global configuration mode.
3. Use the command copy tftp: flash: and follow the prompts to provide the TFTP server IP address and the firmware file name.

Question 2

How do you initiate a software upgrade using FTP on a Cisco device?

Answer 2

1. Ensure the FTP server is running and the firmware image file is in the FTP directory.
2. On the Cisco device, enter global configuration mode.
3. Use the command copy ftp: flash: and follow the prompts to provide the FTP server IP address, username, password, and the firmware file name.

Question 3

What is xmodem?

Answer 3

Xmodem is a simple file transfer protocol that can be used over serial connections for transferring firmware image files to network devices.

Question 4

How do you use xmodem to upgrade a Cisco device’s software?

Answer 4

1. Connect to the device via console.
2. Enter ROMMON mode.
3. Use the command xmodem -c <image>.</image>
4. Use terminal software (e.g., Tera Term or PuTTY) to start the xmodem transfer.

Question 5

What is the tftpdnld command used for?

Answer 5

The tftpdnld command is used in ROMMON mode to download and install a new image on Cisco routers using a TFTP server.

Question 6

What are the benefits of using USB storage for software upgrades?

Answer 6

Using USB storage is fast, convenient, and doesn’t require network connectivity, making it ideal for offline upgrades or when network issues exist.

Question 7

What precautions should you take before performing a software upgrade or downgrade?

Answer 7

Back up the current configuration, verify the compatibility of the new software, ensure you have a reliable power source, and review the release notes for the new software.