When a router boots up and does not find a configuration in NVRAM, it enters the initial setup mode or "out-of-the-box" experience. The router will prompt the user to enter basic configuration settings, such as hostname, interface settings, and passwords. If the user chooses to skip this process, the router will operate with default settings, which may limit its functionality and connectivity. Additionally, the user can enter privileged EXEC mode to manually configure the router or load a configuration file from another source.
The configuration file is missing from NVRAM
The NVRAM is the primary place a router or switch stores the configuration file which tells the device how to operate.
NVRAM
Global configuration
NVRAM
you can use 2100 when you have a corrupt nvram and your router refuses to boot up
NVRAM is that router component in which start up configuration file is stored.
NVRAM, TFTP,Console
The startup configuration file on a Cisco router contains the configuration settings that are loaded into the router's memory when it boots up. It specifies parameters such as interface settings, routing protocols, access control lists, and other operational settings required for the router to function properly. This file is stored in the router's non-volatile memory (NVRAM), ensuring that the configuration persists even when the router is powered off. Essentially, it serves as the baseline configuration that the router uses to establish its operational state.
user exec mode
A router stores its configuration in the long term in a non-volatile memory called NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory). This memory retains the configuration data even when the router is powered off. When the router is booted, it typically loads the configuration from NVRAM to the running memory (RAM) for operational use. Additionally, configurations can also be saved to external storage or backed up on a network server.
The configuration file is missing from NVRAM