Solved: Re: Cisco 3650 on IOS XE 16.9.3a Ignoring the "Ignore Startup Config" Variable

AntDPre · ‎07-08-2020

Cisco 3650 on IOS XE 16.9.3a Ignoring the "Ignore Startup Config" Variable

Hello Everyone,
I have a 3650 on IOS XE 16.9.3a that I do not know the password for. I am using the standard password recovery procedure as follows:
1. Power cycle and enter ROMMON
2. flash_init
3. switch_ignore_startup_cfg=1
4. boot flash:packages.conf

When the device reloads I am taken right back to the username prompt. It's like the device is ignoring the "ignore" variable and booting from startup config. I have used the same recovery procedure before and have never had this issue. Is there a way to factory reset the device without having access to the IOS?

Thanks in advance!

brselzer · ‎07-08-2020

Hello,

I believe the variable is case sensitive. Try:

SWITCH_IGNORE_STARTUP_CFG=1

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst3650/software/release/3se/system_management/configuration_guide/b_sm_3se_3650_cg.pdf

Hope that helps!

-Bradley Selzer
CCIE# 60833

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