Sun Cluster Patch Tips

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

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

• Check the upgrade requirements of your storage devices to determine which patch method they require.

• 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 might be needed.

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

• Keep cluster subsystem patches up to date. These patches include, for example, volume management, storage device firmware, and cluster transport.

• Review patch reports regularly, such as once a quarter, and patch a Sun Cluster configuration by 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.