Sun Cluster Patch Tips

Use the following tips to help you administer Sun Cluster patches more efficiently:

• Refer to the Sun Cluster website for any special instructions associated with the patch or firmware update. For the current URL, see the Sun Cluster 3.1 10/03 Release Notes or contact Enterprise Services.

• Always read the patch README file before applying the patch.

• Apply all patches (required and recommended) before running the cluster in a production environment.

• Check the hardware firmware levels and install any required firmware updates that may be needed.

• All nodes acting as cluster members must have the same patches.

• Keep cluster subsystem patches up to date. This includes volume management, storage device firmware, cluster transport, and so forth.

• Review patch reports regularly, such as once a quarter, and patch a Sun Cluster configuration using the recommended patch suite.

• Apply selective patches as recommended by Enterprise Services.

• Test failover after major patch updates; be prepared to back out the patch if cluster operation is degraded or impaired.