Overview
This book provides procedures for the initial configuration and management of the Application Policy Infrastructure Controller. It enables users to initialize the fabric, discover switches, and maintain controller clusters using the graphical interface or command-line. These instructions help establish a functional network infrastructure while ensuring secure access and operational stability.
Trademarks
What's changed in this guide
This topic explains the new features and significant updates in the 6.2(1) release, including support for mixed-mode clustering between physical and virtual controllers. It also covers enhanced security measures for virtual instances and the removal of the clean reload functionality for the cluster.
Initial setup
This section provides comprehensive procedures for configuring the Application Policy Infrastructure Controller, including BIOS security updates and management interface access. It enables users to establish connectivity through serial, GUI, REST API, or CLI methods to bootstrap the ACI fabric and register controller clusters.
APIC GUI overview
This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the browser-based interface for managing and monitoring the ACI fabric. It explains how to navigate hierarchical objects, utilize the capacity dashboard, and personalize the display, enabling users to efficiently configure system policies and monitor real-time operational health.
Fabric initialization and switch discovery
This section provides procedures for initializing the ACI fabric and discovering switches through the Application Policy Infrastructure Controller. It enables users to configure multi-tier topologies, automate software conversions using POAP, and securely erase hardware data during decommissioning.
Cisco APIC cluster management
This chapter outlines procedures for expanding, contracting, and migrating controller clusters to maintain fabric stability and high availability. It enables users to manage node lifecycles, configure standby redundancy, and perform disaster recovery across physical and virtual environments to ensure continuous network operations.
Configure the cisco APIC using the CLI
This section provides command-line procedures for managing controller clusters and fabric nodes. It enables administrators to perform critical tasks such as node replacement, cluster contraction, and switch registration while providing diagnostic tools to verify system health and connectivity.
Configure the cisco APIC using the REST API
This section provides REST API procedures for automating Application Policy Infrastructure Controller cluster management and fabric switch registration. It enables users to perform maintenance tasks, configure remote storage locations, and retrieve hardware inventory data through programmatic calls.