Methods to upgrade linux
 

I want to know the different ways to upgrade linux (Redhat/Suse).And, let me know whether there is any difference in those methods while upgrading to latest service packs (like RHEL 4.7 to RHEL 4.8) and upgrading to latest releases (like RHEL 4.7 to RHEL 5.3).

I have to upgrade it using the latest DVDs without rebooting the system.

If the upgrade includes a new kernel how do you intend to run the new kernel without rebooting ?

Upgrading from Y.X to Y.X+1 is pretty easy, you just use your package manager (up2date in 4.X and yum in 5.x). Changing major revisions (Y to Y+1) is more involved. You are almost always better off doing a clean install when changing major revisions. In either case a reboot will be required.

Hi,

Most major maintenance or system regenerations will require a live system to be shutdown. You can do this during low peak load periods. Backups should be done before any sort of system maintenance/regeneration to insure you can fallback when necessary.

Just a few links to aid you;

Linux Documentation Project
Rute Tutorial & Exposition
Linux Command Guide
Linux Newbie Admin Guide
LinuxSelfHelp
Getting Started with Linux
Advanced Bash-Scripting Guide

These links and others can be found at 'Slackware-Links'. More than just Slackware® links!

Just to add to the above answers, as you've got RHEL, you should know that RH do not support in-place upgrades across major versions eg 4.x to 5.x
http://www.redhat.com/docs/en-US/Red...ted_Notes.html

OTOH, 4.7 -> 4.8 is fine.