Technical Tip: Best practice when replacing a network device with the same IP

Description

This article describes the recommended steps to be performed when a network Inventory device is replaced and assigned the same management IP as the old entry.

Scope

FortiNAC.

Solution

When adding a switch or router that will use the same IP address as the original device modeled in Topology, the original model must be deleted from the database, and a new model must be added. This ensures all internal mappings and related files associated with that model are correct for the new device. Otherwise, unexpected behavior occurs.

Examples include:

• Unable to read VLANs.
• L2/L3 Poll failures.
• Credential validation failure.
• Switching VLANs on the wrong ports.

1. Review the model of the device to be replaced. Note or take screen captures of all configurations, including port and device group memberships. They will need to be re-entered later.
2. Ensure the new device is configured appropriately.
3. Once the original device is decommissioned, delete the old device model.  
4. Once the new device is on the network, add it to Topology using the appropriate credentials. 
5. Configure the device model using the settings recorded in the previous step.  
   
   

Related articles:

Technical Note: Permission requirements for modeled devices

Technical Tip : Unable to model device in GUI

Technical Tip: Options for devices unable to be modeled in Inventory

Technical Tip: Add a Device in Topology Using an Existing Model

Technical Note: Use Topology Filters to View and Export Information About Modeled Devices