Backups
This document provides an overview of the backup and restore functionality for Provider Edge (PE) devices. The core principles and procedures for managing backups on PE devices are the same as those for Customer Edge (CE) devices. This guide will focus on the key features and concepts, with a link to the detailed CE documentation for step-by-step instructions.
The backup menu allows creation of configuration snapshots, downloading them for safekeeping, and restoring the device to a previous state. This serves as a critical tool for managing and troubleshooting device configurations.
For a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to perform these actions, please refer to the detailed CE Backup documentation. The user interface and workflow are identical for both PE and CE devices.
Link to CE Backup Documentation: CE Backup Document
Core Backup Features
The table below outlines the primary functions available in the PE device's Backup menu.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Backup Device | Creates a new backup file of the current device configuration. |
| Set as Default | Designates a specific backup as the default configuration. The device will revert to this backup upon reboot or reset. |
| Download | Downloads the selected backup file (in .tar format) to the local machine for offline storage. |
| Delete | Permanently removes a backup file from the device. |
| Clear Default | Removes the default designation from the currently selected backup. |
| Restore | Reverts the device to the default backup configuration after a reboot or reset. |
| Platform Config | Downloads a JSON file containing the device's platform configuration settings. |
Basic Backup and Restore Process
The general process for managing backups on a PE device is as follows:
- Create a Backup: Initiate a new backup to save the current configuration state.
- Set a Default: Choose a stable configuration backup and set it as the default.
- Restore: To revert to the previous configuration, reboot or reset the device. The configuration will automatically load from the designated default backup.
- Download and Store: It's a best practice to download important backups to the local system for long-term safekeeping.
Important Notes for Users
- Default Backup is Applied Only After Reboot: The selected default configuration is restored only when the device is rebooted or reset.
- Download Backups Regularly: Always keep a local copy of critical backups to prevent data loss in case the device storage is cleared or replaced.
- Use Meaningful Backup Names (If Supported): This helps identify the correct configuration version when restoring.
- Delete Carefully: Once a backup is deleted, it cannot be recovered from the device.
- Set Default Only After Validation: Ensure the selected backup is stable and tested before marking it as the default configuration.
- Platform Config Download is for Advanced Users/Admins: The Platform Config JSON file contains system-level details and should only be used when required for troubleshooting or support.
- Configuration Changes After Backup Will Not Be Included: Any settings modified after creating a backup will not be present in that backup file. Create a new backup if major changes are made.