Generated Oct 3, 2026, 12:35:03 AM
Before further restores, modify restore scripts to omit hwaddr from the restored config or pass a flag to pct restore that forces generation of a new MAC. For scripted restores, remove or replace any 'hwaddr:' line in the backup config before writing to /etc/pve/lxc/<id>.conf.
For existing duplicates, pick one container at a time during a maintenance window, set a new MAC using Proxmox GUI or by editing /etc/pve/lxc/<id>.conf net0 entry (e.g., hwaddr: 02:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX), then restart the container network. Use a pattern in locally administered MAC range (02: prefix).
On the physical switch, clear the CAM table entries for affected MACs or bounce the relevant switch ports to force relearning. Coordinate with network admin for managed switches—do not clear entire CAM table in production without authorization.
Implement a post-restore validation script that lists net0 hwaddr for all containers and flags duplicates prior to bringing them online. If you cannot change restore process, run this script immediately after restores and reassign MACs as needed.
If restore process is part of a larger orchestration or involves backups from another cluster, document MAC handling and escalate to the Proxmox administrator owning backup tooling to make the generation of unique MACs mandatory.