7.1.1 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 3.0 U1 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.