Chapter 3. Switch Software Management; Loading New Software To Your Switch - IBM RackSwitch G8000 Application Manual

Chapter 3. Switch Software Management

Loading New Software to Your Switch

© Copyright IBM Corp. 2011
The switch software image is the executable code running on the G8000. A version
of the image comes pre-installed on the device. As new versions of the image are
released, you can upgrade the software running on your switch. To get the latest
version of software supported for your G8000, go to the following website:
http://www.bladenetwork.net/support_services_rackswitch.html
To determine the software version currently used on the switch, use the following
switch command:
RS G8000# show boot
The typical upgrade process for the software image consists of the following steps:
• Load a new software image and boot image onto an FTP or TFTP server on your
network.
• Transfer the new images to your switch.
• Specify the new software image as the one which will be loaded into switch
memory the next time a switch reset occurs.
• Reset the switch.
For instructions on the typical upgrade process using the CLI, ISCLI, or BBI, see
"Loading New Software to Your Switch" on page
CAUTION:
Although the typical upgrade process is all that is necessary in most cases,
upgrading from (or reverting to) some versions of IBM Networking OS
requires special steps prior to or after the software installation process.
Please be sure to follow all applicable instructions in the release notes
document for the specific software release to ensure that your switch
continues to operate as expected after installing new software.
The G8000 can store up to two different switch software images (called image1 and
image2) as well as special boot software (called boot). When you load new
software, you must specify where it is placed: either into image1, image2, or boot.
For example, if your active image is currently loaded into image1, you would
probably load the new image software into image2. This lets you test the new
software and reload the original active image (stored in image1), if needed.
CAUTION:
When you upgrade the switch software image, always load the new boot
image and the new software image before you reset the switch. If you do not
load a new boot image, your switch might not boot properly (To recover, see
"Recovering from a Failed Upgrade" on page
45..
49).
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