I purchased a used HP StoreEver MSL2024 G3 library, but the previous owner does not know the administrator password for either the front Operator Control Panel or the web/RMI interface. The library appears to function normally, and the front panel is accessible for basic navigation. It is a 2015 MSL2024 with an LTO-4 Fibre Channel drive, and I plan to replace the drive with an LTO-6 SAS model for use with Veeam. HPE documentation mentions a "Restore Admin password to null" option under Configuration > Save/Restore, and older documentation refers to an HPE Library & Tape Tools feature called "Library Temporary Password." Does a version of L&TT that supports this MSL2024 generation still provide that function? If so, which version should be used, and does it work with this regulatory model? I would also like to know whether the temporary password can be used to clear the existing administrator password, and whether there is another supported recovery process. I would prefer an official procedure rather than replacing the controller or attempting an undocumented hardware reset. I have a QLogic Fibre Channel HBA available so I can connect the existing drive to a Windows system for L&TT diagnostics if necessary.
3 Answers
The most reliable route is to use the HPE documentation and a compatible HPE Library & Tape Tools release, or contact HPE/authorized support with proof of ownership. Confirm that the utility supports the MSL2024 firmware generation before attempting any password reset. If the temporary-password feature is unavailable, support may be able to provide the approved service procedure rather than requiring controller replacement.
One person suggested trying a common factory or service credential, but that should only be done if you are authorized to administer the library and only after checking the official MSL2024 documentation. Credentials can vary by firmware and configuration, so an unsupported code may not work or could have unintended effects.
Another commenter mentioned a service password, but an undocumented or shared service credential should not be treated as a guaranteed solution. Avoid EEPROM changes, service-switch experiments, or controller modifications unless HPE specifically directs them; those steps can damage the configuration and may not clear the password safely.
The seller said the usual combinations had already been tried, but I may verify the documented defaults myself before pursuing a formal recovery route.