Explained router Configurations and Configuration Revision Number |
Introduction
The router configurations determine the behavior of a router
within a network. They manage traffic, control management, security
configurations and device communication. A router cannot work properly and
allows stable connections without a proper configuration.
Various networks will have varying levels of configuration.
Simple settings may be required by a home network, whereas a large organization
requires detailed and well thought out settings. Irrespective of the
environment, the configuration is the blue print of the operations of the
router.
Configuration
Types
Routers have two types of configurations; the running and
the startup configuration. When the router is turned on, it is in the running
mode. Any alterations in the router are realized immediately in this set up.
The startup configuration is saved in non volatile memory.
It is automatically loaded when the router is started up. Any changes to the
running configuration should be saved to the startup configuration or the
changes will be lost when the router is rebooted.
Creating
Configurations
The router configurations are generally constructed via
command-line interface, graphical interface or automated management system. The
administrators establish routing policies, security policies, passwords,
virtual local area networks and other necessary settings.
It is possible to do configuration via a direct console
connection or via remote access via means like Secure Shell. Remote
configuration is easy to do, however, it should be secured to avoid
unauthorized access. Since critical functions are regulated by the settings,
administrators need to exercise cautious preparation.
Purpose of
Configurations
It is because the stability and security of the whole
network depend on the settings of a router. A single misplaced route may lead
to routing loop, route misdirection, or route performance. These issues may
have an impact on several devices, and even the crash of a whole network.
Reliability is attained by accurate configurations and
facilitation of communication. They also assist in provision of security
through the implementation of firewalls, access lists and methods of
authentication. In the case of organizations, well-configurations diminish
downtime and complicate the troubleshooting.
Revision
Numbers
A configuration revision number is used to indicate version
of configuration of the router. The revision number is increased every time a
change is saved. This provides an easy mechanism of keeping track of changes
and comparing versions.
The numbers of the revisions are of particular significance
in case configuration information is shared between several devices. The
revision number can be used to identify the new or old configuration file. This
discourages the replacement of newer settings by older settings.
Use in
Protocols
Certain network protocols make much use of revision numbers.
An illustrative case is the Virtual Local Area Network Trunking Protocol that
is implemented in most enterprise networks. This protocol shares configuration
between switches and routers.
In these systems, the devices with a higher revision number
are taken to have the latest configuration. When a device with a wrong though
high revision number is connected to the network, it may forcefully change the
correct configuration of other devices.
Updating
Revisions
Most routers have a default of updating the revision number
each time a configuration is saved. A single change, even the inclusion of some
description or a change of a setting, causes a revision update.
With configuration synchronisation systems, the protocol
automatically updates revision numbers. Such numbers are not entered by the
administrators, but they should know how they operate in order not to replace
configuration accidentally. A reset of the revision number is sometimes needed
by wiping of temporary files or altering the device mode.
Benefits of
Revisions
The revision number assists the administrators in tracking
of the configuration history. They show the time of the last change and the
possibility of a device having the most recent settings. This facilitates
coordination of changes in big teams.
Version control is also supported by revision numbers.
Devices are able to automatically check their version against each other and
update themselves when a new configuration is found. This can be used in
massive networks where a manual update would be impractical, complicated or
prone to errors.
Risks of
Revisions
The numbers of revision may be hazardous unless handled
well. A device with such a high revision number has the possibility of
overriding the right settings within a network. With this, it is possible to
erase the virtual local area networks, shut down ports or cause routing
failures.
Attackers also can attempt to alter revision numbers to
force unhealthy configuration alterations. Even well-intending technicians
might bring a severe problem when connecting a reset device which has still a
wrong revision number. These reasons make revision control one which has to be
followed closely.
Safe
Management
The safeguarded management of configurations starts with the
preservation of regular backup. Backups enable the administrators to retrieve
former versions when errors are made. Majority of the organizations maintain
their backup copies at safe locations.
Paper work is significant as well. All the changes must be
documented as to the nature of what has been changed and the reason why the
change had to be done. Together with revision numbers, documentation forms a
dependable method of monitoring the history of configuration of each router.
Management
Tools
Automation tools are frequently used in modern networks in
order to control router configurations. The tools have the ability to make
changes to numerous routers simultaneously, minimizing the human factor. They
also capture the revision numbers, capture the differences and warn the
administration when inconsistencies are detected.
The automation systems enhance reliability and make sure
that the settings are in synchrony. This is particularly relevant to large or
complex networks where it would require too much time to manually configure the
network or there would be errors.
Conclusion
Stable and secure network operation requires router
configurations and configuration revision numbers. Configurations specify the
operation of a router and revision numbers trace the development of the
settings over time. Being aware of these concepts allows avoiding outage,
ensuring the same settings, and facilitating effective troubleshooting.
Organizations can with proper management and proper monitoring allow the smooth
and reliable flow of communication of all network devices.
