Replacing and activating a standby Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC) in a Cisco ACI MultiPod setup involves additional considerations compared to a single-pod setup. Below are the detailed steps to help you through the process:
Preparation
- Backup Configuration: Ensure you have a recent backup of your ACI configuration.
- Documentation: Document the current configuration and settings of the APIC you are replacing.
- Firmware Compatibility: Verify that the firmware version of the new APIC matches the existing APICs in the cluster.
- MultiPod Considerations: Understand the topology and inter-pod connectivity to ensure minimal disruption.
Physical Replacement
- Power Down the Standby APIC: Safely power down the standby APIC that you are going to replace.
- Disconnect Cables: Disconnect all network and power cables from the old APIC.
- Remove the Old APIC: Physically remove the old APIC from the rack.
Install the New APIC (I assume it’s already done in your setup)
- Rack the New APIC: Install the new APIC in the rack.
- Connect Cables: Connect the network and power cables to the new APIC.
- Power On the New APIC: Power on the new APIC.
Configuration (I assume it’s already done in your setup)
- Initial Setup: Connect to the new APIC via the console port and perform the initial setup. This includes setting the management IP address, gateway, and other basic settings.
- Cluster Configuration: Add the new APIC to the existing ACI MultiPod cluster. This can be done through the APIC GUI or CLI.
- GUI Method: Navigate to System > Controllers > Expand the controller list > Add Controller.
- CLI Method: Use the acidiag commands to add the new APIC to the cluster.
Synchronization and Activation
- Synchronization: The new APIC will start synchronizing with the existing cluster. This process can take some time depending on the size of your configuration.
- Monitor the Process: Monitor the synchronization process through the APIC GUI or CLI to ensure there are no issues.
- Verify Status: Once synchronization is complete, verify that the new APIC is correctly integrated into the cluster and is in a standby state.
MultiPod Specific Steps
- Inter-Pod Connectivity: Ensure that the new APIC has proper connectivity to other pods. This includes verifying IPN (Inter-Pod Network) configurations.
- Pod-Specific Configuration: Verify that the new APIC is correctly configured for the specific pod it is part of. This includes checking pod-specific policies and settings.
Post-Replacement Checks
- Cluster Health: Check the overall health of the ACI cluster to ensure there are no issues.
- Configuration Consistency: Verify that the configuration is consistent across all APICs.
- Logs and Alerts: Review logs and alerts to ensure there are no errors related to the new APIC.
Final Steps
- Backup Configuration: Take a new backup of the ACI configuration after the replacement.
- Documentation: Update your documentation to reflect the changes made during the replacement process.
Troubleshooting
- If the new APIC does not join the cluster, check the network connectivity, IP settings, and ensure that the firmware version is compatible.
- Review the APIC logs for any error messages that can provide clues to any issues.
- Ensure that the IPN configuration is correct and that there is proper connectivity between the pods.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully replace and activate a standby APIC in your Cisco ACI MultiPod environment. Always refer to the latest Cisco documentation and support resources for detailed instructions and best practices.
