Does Service Password-Encryption Encrypt Future Passwords?

The Function of Service Password-Encryption in Encrypting Future Passwords

Many organizations use the 'service password-encryption' command on their networking devices to encrypt passwords stored in the configuration file. However, it is crucial to understand that the 'service password-encryption' command does not encrypt future passwords automatically. The command only encrypts passwords that are already present in the configuration file at the time it is applied.

When a new password is configured or changed after the 'service password-encryption' command has been enabled, the new password will be stored in plain text format in the configuration file unless it is manually encrypted.

It is important for administrators to be aware of this distinction to ensure that all passwords stored in the configuration file are adequately protected. Simply enabling the 'service password-encryption' command is not sufficient to encrypt all passwords, especially those set or changed after its activation.