How does updating OS work?

g_paschoal · 07-14-2010, 08:42 AM

Hi All,

I would like to know how the updating OS process works. I work as Support Analyst and when our boxes needs to be updated we bring down the app and wait for the SO to work. I would Like to know what is done by the SysAdmin. They make a data repository or they connect directly to the vendor ( Redhat, solaris, etc) What kind of update they do? Security? Support?

Thanks

scrooge_74 · 07-14-2010, 11:30 AM

Well depends on what you are using, but I know tha Debian/Ubuntu, Suse, RedHat have repositories for the packages for when you need to install or update something. Open Solaris is the same.

The updates can be just security ones or bigger changes depending on the distribution, if you go to each of the Distros website you can find more detail.

anomie · 07-14-2010, 11:46 AM

Right, completely depends on the OS, its philosophy, and where your precise version is in the support cycle. Updates usually include bugfixes and security fixes. In some cases, updates may include version bumps.

Ideally, you'll have access to a repository with digitally signed packages (or source bundles).