Cisco Switch Out-Of-Box without console access

Question

I have a Cisco C2950-24 Switch Out-Of-Box here. But my laptop doesn't have serial port nor I have the console hub.

Is there a way to setup the switch from this state without console access? I have a router that is feeding DHCP to the root port of the switch.

Solution

The standard approach is to use a USB-to-serial adapter and a (Cisco) console cable to perform the initial configuration.

Basically, the state of your current switch is unknown. Is it new from a factory, refurbished, used? Either way, there's no guarantee on how the switch was configured and what's on the unit. For example, I've had Cisco ASA firewalls come with DHCP enabled and mostly up-to-date, whereas many other devices came new with no network configuration and outdated software.

It may be worth the investment in a serial adapter at this point. The Tripp-Lite USA-19HS unit pictured above is quite popular and supports most operating systems.

Comments

[Admin]

So for, Routers and ASAs, I don't need serial port. But for switches, I definitely need one, is what you are saying sir?

[MadHatter]

No, you'll find a serial adaptor useful for all of those devices, unless you can be sure they all come with a clean factory config, and you know what their default IP configuration is, and you have a test network which you can set up to do the initial config. Really, the adaptor is a worthwhile investment; mine most definitely was.