Table of Contents
Advertisement
7
Updating SUSE Linux
Enterprise
SUSE® Linux Enterprise provides the option of updating an existing system to the new
version without completely reinstalling it. No new installation is needed. Old data, such
as home directories and system configuration, is kept intact. During the life cycle of
the product, you can apply Service Packs to increase system security and correct software
defects. Install from a local CD or DVD drive or from a central network installation
source.
7.1 Updating SUSE Linux Enterprise
Follow the steps outlined in this section, if you want to update from SUSE Linux Enter-
prise Server 10 to SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11, for example. Make sure you update
the old system to the most recent patch level first—at the moment, that is SP2.
Software tends to "grow" from version to version. Therefore, take a look at the available
partition space with df before updating. If you suspect you are running short of disk
space, secure your data before updating and repartition your system. There is no general
rule of thumb regarding how much space each partition should have. Space requirements
depend on your particular partitioning profile and the software selected.
7.1.1 Preparations
Before updating, copy the old configuration files to a separate medium, such as tape
device, removable hard disk, USB stick, or ZIP drive, to secure the data. This primarily
applies to files stored in /etc as well as some of the directories and files in /var and
Updating SUSE Linux Enterprise
125
Advertisement
Table of Contents
