Overview
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.
This chapter contains the following sections:
Additional documents
This topic explains the availability of related documents that serve as useful references, complementing the Cisco APIC Getting Started Guide to enhance understanding and facilitate effective deployment.
APIC configuration methods
This topic explains how to configure Cisco APIC using the GUI, REST API, or CLI method, highlighting the NX-OS style CLI's ability to implicitly create ACI model constructs and provide validations for consistent configurations, reducing and preventing faults.
Change the default BIOS password
Use this procedure to change the BIOS password on your Cisco APIC. Follow the steps to access the setup menu, enter the current password, and set a new password to ensure your system's security.
Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure
This topic explains the Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) and its centralized management controller, the Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC), which automates network provisioning and control through application-centric policies, offering unified management and programmability across physical and virtual components.
Local serial connection for basic configuration
This topic explains how to establish a local serial connection to the Cisco APIC server for initial configuration, detailing methods for connecting via KVM cable, USB keyboard, and VGA monitor, and providing guidance on enabling Serial-over-LAN (SoL) for remote access.
Access the APIC GUI
Use this procedure to access the APIC GUI, enabling you to configure the Cisco APIC through a supported browser. Ensure you follow the steps for handling unsigned certificates in Safari to maintain WebSocket connectivity.
Access REST API
Use this procedure to access the APIC GUI, enabling you to configure the Cisco APIC through a supported browser. Ensure you follow the steps for handling unsigned certificates in Safari to maintain WebSocket connectivity.
Access the NX-OS style CLI
This topic explains how to access the APIC NX-OS style CLI via terminal or GUI and outlines critical operational guidelines. It covers administrative privilege requirements, syntax differences from standard NX-OS, and mandatory SSH client versions for FIPS-enabled setups.
Access the object model CLI
This topic explains how to access and navigate the object model CLI from the NX-OS style CLI using a secure shell (SSH) connection, including steps to enter and exit the object model CLI and recommendations for directory usage.