Lenovo Unsupported SFP Fix

When using Lenovo equipment along with third-party transceivers, you might encounter compatibility issues—a common problem in networking equipment. One frequent issue is the incompatibility between the switch and the transceiver.

What Causes Such Issues?

Lenovo equipment, like many other brands such as Cisco and Huawei, incorporates algorithms to check whether a transceiver is genuine or third-party. These algorithms verify vendor-specific fields in the transceiver’s coding. If validation fails, the module may be disallowed, leading to errors. In the case of Lenovo, the prompt will read “Unapproved” when checking port information, indicating that the vendor-specific fields in the coding (bytes from 96 to 128) failed to validate.

Possible Solutions

Here are three potential solutions to resolve Lenovo transceiver compatibility issues:

1. Use Genuine Lenovo Transceivers:

Lenovo equipment, like many other brands such as Cisco and Huawei, incorporates algorithms to check whether a transceiver is genuine or third-party. These algorithms verify vendor-specific fields in the transceiver’s coding. If validation fails, the module may be disallowed, leading to errors. In the case of Lenovo, the prompt will read “Unapproved” when checking port information, indicating that the vendor-specific fields in the coding (bytes from 96 to 128) failed to validate.

2. Copy the Code:

A seemingly simple solution is to copy the genuine transceiver code. However, transceiver coding complexity varies among brands and their algorithms. Simple copying may not work as vendor-specific fields could be uniquely generated for each module. Fortunately, our experience in Lenovo-compatible transceiver coding allows us to offer a portfolio of Lenovo compatible transceivers.

3. Command Line Solution:

This solution involves using command-line instructions to allow unsupported modules to work based on the MSA fields in the module’s coding. Here’s a command line method specifically for Lenovo NE1032:

Note: These commands are intended for Lenovo NE1032; commands for other equipment may differ!

1. NE1032#configure terminal

2. NE1032(config)#system unsupported-transceiver

3. NE1032(config)#exit

4. NE1032#show running-config | include unsupported system unsupported-transceiver

5. NE1032#copy running-config startup-config

After executing the last command, the switch will prompt “Building configuration…” and the previously unapproved modules should work once the config is updated and the system rebooted.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage Lenovo unsupported SFP issues and ensure smooth operation of your networking equipment.

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Optimize your network’s performance and avoid compatibility headaches by understanding and implementing these solutions. For more expert advice and compatible modules –  Contact Us.

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