How to Reset the Configuration on an HPE J9729A (Aruba 2920-48G-POE+) Switch

Resetting your HPE J9729A (Aruba 2920-48G-POE+) switch can help resolve configuration issues, prepare the device for redeployment, or clear forgotten passwords. This guide will walk you through step-by-step methods to clear configurations safely using both CLI commands and the physical reset button, ensuring your switch returns to a clean, factory-default state.

Why Reset the Configuration on Your J9729A Switch?

You may need to clear the configuration in scenarios such as:

• Redeployment: Preparing the switch for a new environment by removing old configurations.
• Troubleshooting: Fixing issues caused by misconfigurations or unstable behavior.
• Security: Preventing sensitive configuration leaks when retiring or selling equipment.
• Password Recovery: Regaining access if administrator credentials are forgotten.

Method 1: Using CLI Commands to Reset Stacking Configuration

While the CLI can manage certain reset actions, such as clearing stacking configurations, it does not fully factory reset all configurations (VLANs, routing, security settings). For a complete reset, see Method 2.

⚠️ Warning: Always back up your configurations before proceeding, as reset actions may restart the switch and erase critical settings.

Steps:

1. Access the CLI:
   • Connect via console, SSH, or Telnet.
   • Enter manager mode (enable) and then enter configuration mode:

   enable
   config
   

2. Run the appropriate reset command:
   • To remove a missing or unneeded stack member:

   stacking member  remove

   • To disable stacking entirely:

   stacking disable

   • To factory reset stacking and clear stack information:

   stacking factory-reset

   This will erase stack-related configuration and restart the switch.

   Example:

   AV_Switch1# config
   AV_Switch1(config)# stacking member 2 remove
   AV_Switch1(config)# stacking disable
   AV_Switch1(config)# stacking factory-reset
   

Method 2: Using the Physical Reset Button (Factory Reset)

For a full factory reset that clears all configurations, including VLANs, IP addresses, routing, and user credentials, use the hardware reset procedure.

⚠️ Warning: This will erase all configurations. Ensure you have backed up your configuration before proceeding.

Steps:

1. Prepare a paperclip or a small pin to press the reset buttons.
2. Locate the “Reset” and “Clear” holes on the front panel of your switch.
3. Reset Procedure:
   • Insert pins into both “Reset” and “Clear” holes simultaneously and hold them.
   • Release the “Reset” pin while continuing to hold the “Clear” pin.
   • Wait until the “Test” LED begins to blink rapidly, then release the “Clear” pin.
   • The switch will reboot and begin the factory reset process.

Verification:

• The switch will restart with default settings.
• Connect via console; you should see the initial setup prompt.
• Run:

show running-config

to confirm the configuration has been cleared.

Firmware Version Considerations

The physical reset method is consistent across Aruba 2920 firmware versions. However, CLI command syntax may vary slightly depending on the firmware. Refer to your device's firmware documentation if you encounter command discrepancies.

People Also Ask

Q1: How do I erase HP switch configuration?

You can reset most HP (HPE/Aruba) switches via CLI commands (for partial resets) or using the physical reset button for a full factory reset, as detailed above.

Q2: How do I clear a Cisco switch configuration?

For Cisco switches, you typically use:

erase startup-config
reload

to clear configurations and reboot the device. Refer to your Cisco model documentation for details.

Final Notes

Resetting your HPE J9729A (Aruba 2920-48G-POE+) is like giving your network a fresh start. Whether you’re troubleshooting, redeploying, or clearing out configurations for security, following the proper reset procedure ensures stability and reliability in your environment.