configure terminal vs configure memory

[SJ K]

hi all,

I tried running this 2 commands but i dont see any difference.

I have a running config with line con 0 password set.

i have a startup config with line con 0 without any password.

i tried running configure memory and type show running-config, but i still the password set on line con 0.

q1) so what does configure memory does ?

Regards,

Noob

[Charles Hill]

Hello szejiekoh,

Configure terminal is used to change the running configuration.

Configure memory is used to change the startup config.

Here is a posting that discusses the differences.

https://supportforums.cisco.com/discussion/12202571/configure-terminal

Hope this helps.

Please rate helpfule posts.

Thanks.

[SJ K]

Hi Charles,

I am connected to my GNS3 router

Cisco IOS Software, 3700 Software (C3725-ADVENTERPRISEK9-M), Version 12.4(15)T14.

Typing configure memory does not allow me to configure anything at all.  I did not go into configuration mode.

R1#configure memory
R1#
*Mar  1 05:46:47.478: %SYS-5-CONFIG_I: Configured from memory by console

Also, It seems like it is just loading the configuration in the memory.  What good can it be then ?

Regards,

Noob

[Charles Hill]

I have never tested this command, only learned about it, while studying for certs.

According to documentation: Configure memory - Loads the startup configuration saved in nonvolatile random access memory (NVRAM) to the current configuration.

I was testing this in our office switch that is actually in production, but only affects myself and co-worker, and the Port-channel dropped, which dropped our connections for about 30 seconds.

I tested this on our test switch and I'm unable to verify what is actually happening when you enter configure memory.  It doesn't appear to load the startup.  In fact, one time the command reloaded the switch, so I would not recommend using this command in a production switch.

The switch I'm using for testing is a 3750X. 

c3750e-universalk9npe-mz.122-55.SE8.bin

[SJ K]

Hi Charles,

Thanks for coming back.

As you mentioned, it load the startup from nvram to the current config - but my steps below proved it wrong.

1) copy run start

2) config t - create a new user (now this user is in running config)

3) show start (did not see the new user)

4) config memory

5) show run (the new user is still there) 

Meaning that the startup-config was not used to configured the current/running configurations, else why was it still showing the new user created in step 5.

Regards,

Noob

[Charles Hill]

I agree, my testing proved it wrong as well.  At least it proved my understanding of the command wrong.  Maybe someone will chime in that has successfully used this command.

[SJ K]

Hi Charles,

No issue pal. Having your reply is more then sufficient. Lets wait around and see any kind gurus advises.

Else I will put your previous reply as the correct answer!

Thanks!