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Here’s a detailed breakdown of Section 6 – Administer an NDB Environment, Objective 6.2: Perform NDB Software Upgrades. This section focuses on upgrading Nutanix Database Service (NDB) instances, including standard updates and updates in environments with restricted (dark site) internet access.

Objective 6.2: Perform NDB Software Upgrades

1. Perform an Update of an NDB Instance

  • What It Is:

    • Performing an update of an NDB instance involves upgrading the NDB software to a newer version using Nutanix’s One-Click Upgrade feature. This process ensures that the NDB environment is running the latest software, which includes new features, security patches, and bug fixes.
  • Key Steps:

    • Check Prerequisites: Before starting the upgrade, ensure that the environment meets all prerequisites, such as supported versions of AOS, Prism Central, and sufficient resources.
    • Backup the Environment: Take a full backup of the NDB instance to safeguard against any potential issues during the upgrade.
    • Initiate One-Click Upgrade: Use the One-Click Upgrade tool in NDB to start the upgrade process. The tool will handle the download, installation, and configuration of the new software version.
    • Monitor the Upgrade: During the upgrade, monitor the process for any errors or warnings. Ensure that all components are updated successfully.
    • Post-Upgrade Validation: After the upgrade, verify that the NDB instance is functioning correctly and that all services are operational. Check logs and test critical functions to ensure stability.
  • Key Considerations:

    • Schedule the upgrade during a maintenance window to minimize impact on production environments.
    • Ensure that all NDB components, including dependent services, are compatible with the new version before proceeding.
  • What It Is Not:

    • It is not a patch update; this process upgrades the entire NDB instance to a new major or minor version.
    • It is not instantaneous; although streamlined by One-Click Upgrade, the process still requires careful planning and monitoring.
  • Reference:

    • Upgrading NDB (One-Click Upgrade)

2. Update a Dark Site-based NDB Instance

  • What It Is:

    • Updating a dark site-based NDB instance refers to upgrading NDB in environments with restricted or no internet access. This process is more complex because it requires manually downloading and transferring the necessary files to the dark site environment.
  • Key Steps:

    • Download Upgrade Files: From a network with internet access, download the required upgrade files, including the NDB software package and any necessary dependencies.
    • Transfer Files to Dark Site: Securely transfer the upgrade files to the dark site environment using physical media or secure transfer methods.
    • Verify File Integrity: Before starting the upgrade, verify the integrity of the transferred files to ensure they have not been corrupted during the transfer.
    • Perform Offline Upgrade: Use the offline upgrade tools provided by Nutanix to manually apply the upgrade to the NDB instance. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure all components are updated correctly.
    • Monitor and Validate: As with the standard upgrade, monitor the process and validate that the NDB instance is fully operational after the upgrade is complete.
  • Key Considerations:

    • Ensure strict security protocols are followed when transferring files to the dark site to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.
    • Plan the upgrade carefully, as troubleshooting in a dark site environment can be more challenging due to limited access to external resources.
  • What It Is Not:

    • It is not an automated process like the One-Click Upgrade; it requires manual intervention and careful execution.
    • It is not suitable for environments with internet access; this method is specifically for dark sites.
  • Reference:

    • Upgrading NDB (Offline Upgrade)

Summary of Key References

  • Upgrading NDB (One-Click Upgrade): A guide on how to perform a standard NDB software upgrade using the One-Click Upgrade tool, which simplifies the process.
  • Upgrading NDB (Offline Upgrade): Instructions for upgrading NDB in dark site environments where internet access is restricted, requiring manual file transfers and updates.

Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation

  • One-Click Upgrade Process: Be familiar with the steps and considerations for performing a standard NDB upgrade using the One-Click Upgrade tool, including preparation, execution, and validation.
  • Dark Site Upgrades: Understand the process and challenges of upgrading NDB in dark site environments, including how to manually download, transfer, and apply the upgrade files.

By mastering these concepts related to NDB software upgrades, you’ll be well-prepared to answer questions related to Objective 6.2 on the NCP-DB 6.5 exam.