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    Restore recent configuration: where to place external config file?

    Scheduled Pinned Locked Moved General pfSense Questions
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    • A
      Architekt
      last edited by

      I have a 6100 arriving Monday to replace my dead 5100 and have a converted config file from support all set to go. I'd like to log into the console once I get it, and after ensuring it's on the same or later pfsense version as my config (22.05), use the "Restore recent configuration" option in the console to quickly set things to how they should be. As this config file was sent to me via email and isn't going to be in the "Config History" of the device yet, I was wondering if I could still use this option to restore my config file? If so, is there some place I would need to copy it? I presume I'd need to place it on a USB drive and move it to a specific directory (via the shell option) but I don't know where that would be.

      Or is this not possible and the suggested approach would be to just log into the WebGUI, go through the initial setup wizard, and then load my config file via the browser? Thanks!

      bingo600B 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
      • bingo600B
        bingo600 @Architekt
        last edited by

        @architekt

        AFAIK you can just copy the config (named config.xml) to the "root dir" of a blank formatted FAT32 USB Stick , and boot with the stick inserted.

        See:
        https://docs.netgate.com/pfsense/en/latest/backup/restore-during-install.html#restore-configuration-from-usb-during-install

        Here it says to create a /conf dir and put the config.xml there.
        But i'm quite sure it will work with the config file in the "root dir" too.

        Remember to remove the USB stick after bootup is completed, else the USB config file will be restored on every boot.

        /Bingo

        If you find my answer useful - Please give the post a šŸ‘ - "thumbs up"

        pfSense+ 23.05.1 (ZFS)

        QOTOM-Q355G4 Quad Lan.
        CPUĀ  : Core i5 5250U, Ram : 8GB Kingston DDR3LV 1600
        LANĀ  : 4 x Intel 211, DiskĀ  : 240G SAMSUNG MZ7L3240HCHQ SSD

        1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
        • stephenw10S
          stephenw10 Netgate Administrator
          last edited by

          Yes, it now checks in both the root or /conf on a connected USB stick.

          The recommended approach is to use the GUI though if you have access to it. And you should do as it will be factory fresh so just connect to the LAN and upload the config that way.

          Steve

          A 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
          • A
            Architekt @stephenw10
            last edited by

            @stephenw10 will do thanks

            1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
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