Passwords implications when upgrading or downgrading software versions

When you update software from a version that does not support long passwords to a version that does support long passwords, the existing usernames and passwords continue to be there and no further action is required.

Before downgrading to a software version that does not include this feature, use one of the following procedures:

Procedure
  • Reset the username and/or password to be no more than 16 characters in length, without using any special characters, from the CLI command password. Execute a CLI write memory command (required if the include-credentials feature has ever been enabled.)
    switch(config)#password manager 
    New password: ******** 
    Please retype new password: ******* 
    switch(config)# write mem
  • Execute the CLI command no password all. This clears all the passwords. Execute a CLI write memory command (required if the include-credentials feature has ever been enabled.)
    switch(config)#no password all
    Password protections will be deleted, do you want to
    continue [y/n]? y
    switch(config)# write mem
  • Clear the password by using the Clear button on the switch. Execute a CLI write memory command (required if the include-credentials feature has ever been enabled.)