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Version: v25.07.31

CE Into PE

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for converting CE device to a PE device. The process involves accessing the CE device terminal, modifying its configuration, and resetting it to factory settings to complete the change.

Converting CE to PE​

Access the Terminal​

  • Open the Terminal.

  • Access the CE device terminal using SSH. Use the following command.

    ssh -p <port_number> <username>@<CE_device_IP>

Switch to Superuser Mode​

  • Enter the following command to switch to superuser mode.

    sudo su -

Update the Device Type to PE​

  • Change the device type to PE.

    echo PE > /etc/devicetype

  • Verify the change.

    cat /etc/devicetype

Reset the Device to Factory Settings​

  • Run the factory reset command to apply the changes.

    firstboot -y

Reboot the Device​

  • Restart the device to complete the conversion

    reboot now

Important Notes for Users​

  • A factory reset will erase all configurations and data on the device. Ensure backup is taken before proceeding.
  • Perform this activity only if you fully understand the impact on the live network.
  • Make sure the device is connected to a stable power source during the process to prevent corruption.
  • Run these commands only with administrator / root-level permissions.
  • Ensure you have console or SSH access available after reboot.
  • Perform this change during a planned maintenance window if the device is in production.
  • After conversion, the device will behave as a PE device and should be configured accordingly.

FAQs​

Q:1 How do I access the CE device terminal?

You can access the CE device terminal using SSH. Command format: ssh -p port_number username@CE_device_IP Replace port_number, username, and CE_device_IP with the actual values for your device.

Q:2 Why do I need to switch to superuser mode?

Switching to superuser mode (sudo su -) provides the necessary administrative privileges. Without superuser rights, you cannot modify system files such as /etc/devicetype or perform a factory reset.

Q:3 Why is a factory reset required after changing the device type?

The factory reset (firstboot -y) ensures that the new PE configuration is applied cleanly. It clears old CE-specific settings and prepares the device to operate as a PE.