Symptoms

While copying boot software (Boot PROM) in a PowerConnect 5500 switch, the copy operation is hung and we loose management access to the switch. The only recovery method is to reboot. This article explains the reason and solution to this issue. This document is applicable to Dell Power Connect 5524/5548/5524P/5548P switches in standalone or stack. Table of content Reason How to check boot software version What if my boot software is latest version What if my boot software is Older Firmware and Bootcode Reason If the Boot PROM (Boot software) version is already present in the switch, we do not upload it again. Doing so, may cause the management access to go unresponsive. For example, if Boot Software is already 1.0.0.14, and we are trying to copy it again to switch, we might lose management access. Check the release notes added along with the firmware zip file for the appropriate firmware version. How to check boot code version Use the command "show version" to verify bootcode version Sample output console#show version Unit S W version Boot version HW version ------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ---------------- 1 4.1.0.1 1.0.0.14 00.00.02 * 1.0.0.14 is bootcode version What if my boot software is already in latest version? Proceed with Firmware copying and upgrade. Skip copying Boot Software What if my boot software is Older? Proceed with Firmware and Boot Software upgrade Firmware and Bootcode Below table mentions some firmware version and their corresponding Boot software (Boot PROM) Firmware Version Boot software (Boot PROM) 4.1.0.22 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.21 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.20 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.19 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.16 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.15 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.12 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.10 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.8 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.5 1.0.0.14 4.1.0.1 1.0.0.14 4.0.1.12 1.0.0.12 *If a newer Firmware is released, check the release notes and find the appropriate Boot Prom Version.