Loading a new IOS image Which command copies a Cisco IOS software image from a TFTP server into flash memory on the router?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: copy tftp flash

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Upgrading a Cisco router's operating system typically involves transferring an image file into flash storage. The router supports multiple file transfer protocols; TFTP is common in lab and controlled environments. Knowing the correct source and destination order in the copy command prevents accidental overwrites and failed upgrades.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • A TFTP server is reachable over IP and hosts the new IOS image.
  • The router has sufficient flash capacity or old images are managed appropriately.
  • You are in EXEC or privileged EXEC mode.


Concept / Approach:

The IOS copy command syntax is copy . To bring an image from a TFTP server into flash, the correct order is copy tftp flash. You will be prompted for the server IP and filename. After validation and checksum, the image is written into flash and can be made the boot image via the boot system command or default selection rules.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Verify connectivity to the TFTP server (for example, ping).Issue: copy tftp flash.Provide server address and image filename when prompted.Wait for the transfer to complete and verify file size and integrity.


Verification / Alternative check:

Use show flash to confirm the new image file and available space. Use show version to check the next boot image after setting boot system statements if necessary.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • copy flash tftp exports from flash to a TFTP server (reverse direction).
  • copy ftp flash is valid for FTP, not TFTP; however, it does not match the TFTP scenario assumed by the question.
  • copy flash ftp is reverse direction for FTP.
  • copy usbflash0: flash: may be valid on platforms with USB, but the question specifies TFTP.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Mistyping the filename or insufficient flash space causes failures.
  • Forgetting to update the boot variable, resulting in booting the old image after reload.


Final Answer:

copy tftp flash

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