What are the best practice recommendations for using Nipper?
To get the most out of Nipper, please find our core tips outlined in this article.
1. Ensure device compatibility and supported versions
Before starting an audit, confirm that:
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The device is listed as a supported device here.
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Consult with Support regarding compatible OS and versions for the supported devices.
2. Keep Nipper updated
Regular updates introduce new device support, feature enhancements, and bug fixes. To ensure optimal performance:
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Always use the latest version of Nipper.
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Follow the How to update Nipper to upgrade to the latest release.
3. Export device configurations correctly
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Use the official Nipper device guides to export configurations in the correct format.
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Avoid manual modifications to prevent syntax errors or formatting issues.
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Ensure the file format is correct (e.g., .json for Checkpoint and Firepower, .xml for Palo Alto).
4. Do not modify the exported configuration
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Ensure that the exported configuration is not modified before importing to Nipper.
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Check for formatting inconsistencies that could cause parsing issues.
5. Verify device detection and version identification
Nipper auto-detects the audited device and version. To prevent false positives:
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Confirm that Nipper correctly identifies the device type and OS version.
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If detection is incorrect, ensure the configuration file has been exported in the right format. You may also manually select the correct device plugin if you think the file is correctly exported and has not tampered with.
6. Reach out to Support when needed
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Before contacting Support, check Nipper’s Known Issues for potential solutions.
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If an issue persists, contact Support with a sanitized configuration file for further analysis.
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Provide detailed error descriptions and screen shots to expedite troubleshooting.