A network team is preparing a maintenance window to perform a software operating system update on a high-availability core switch cluster operating in an active/standby state. Which TWO actions must the engineers execute to maintain service continuity and ensure rapid recovery if an issue arises?
- Export current configuration files off-box and verify the software image file integrity against vendor checksums prior to installationAnswer
- Execute a rolling upgrade by applying the software patch to the standby node first, verifying system stability, and triggering a controlled failoverAnswer
- CUpgrade both active and standby nodes simultaneously to prevent software version mismatches across the cluster
- DReassign connected access switches to target the physical IP addresses of the primary switch interfaces directly during maintenance
Answer
The correct procedures are exporting configuration files off-device and verifying image checksums prior to installation, as well as performing a rolling upgrade by patching the standby node first before failing over active traffic.
Safe software maintenance on high-availability network infrastructure requires a rolling upgrade strategy. Patching the standby node first maintains active traffic processing on the primary node. Confirming image hashes and exporting configuration backups off-device guarantees that corrupted code is not flashed and that device state can be restored immediately in a recovery scenario.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
High-Availability Rolling Upgrades and Pre-Maintenance Validation