Following are the three steps to follow to ensure effective updates:
- Prepare: Before initiating any firmware updates, thorough preparation is essential. This includes:
- Backup: Ensure all critical data and configurations are backed up to prevent data loss in case of unexpected issues during the update process.
- Review release notes: Understand the changes, improvements, and potential fixes included in the new firmware version.
- Check compatibility: Verify that the new firmware version is compatible with your specific hardware model and software environment.
Note: Readme files can be vital to understanding what each update offers. IT admins can see the exact updates being made to the system by going through readme files.
- Identify: Selecting the appropriate method for deploying firmware updates is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful process:
- Manual vs. automated: Decide whether to deploy updates manually, individually leveraging this method for convenience and efficiency, or by automating them.
- Testing environment: If feasible, test the firmware update in a controlled environment on each device or use automated tools for bulk updates.
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates: For devices that support OTA updates, consider the environment to identify any potential issues before deploying across production systems.
- Deploy: Executing the deployment of firmware updates requires careful execution to minimize disruption and ensure optimal performance:
- Schedule maintenance window: Plan a suitable maintenance window during off-peak hours to minimize impact on users and operations.
- Monitor progress: During deployment, monitor the update progress closely to address any errors or complications promptly.
- Verify completion: After deployment, verify that all devices have successfully updated to the new firmware version and perform post-update testing if necessary to confirm functionality.
Note: Lockdown IT admin is a smart feature offered by Dell Technologies for your safety. Once the updates are completed, you can securely lock the systems to ensure no updates are pushed without admin approval.