OS Version for Upgrade

[puru85]

Hello Team,

One of our client is currently using Red Hat 7.7 OS Version. As Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7 is reaching its end of maintenance on June 30, 2024, we are planning to upgrade the operating system.

Could you kindly suggest the recommended OS version for the upgrade?

Feel free to contact us if you require more information.

Thank you!

[shashi01]

Hello @puru85 

Thanks for reaching out!

Consider upgrading to RHEL 9.2 for the latest features and modernized application development tools, or to RHEL 8.4 for a more incremental upgrade with enhanced hybrid cloud capabilities.

It's advisable to review Red Hat's checklist and potentially consult with a Red Hat representative to ensure the upgrade path chosen meets your client's operational requirements and long-term strategy.

[Chetan_Tiwary_ · Accepted solution]

Hello @puru85 !

The Red Hat OS upgrade in client system is a critical change and should only be done after careful planning, testing the compatibility issues etc , discussions with all the stakeholders involved and product support from the Red Hat side.  

Please DO NOT do any changes to the OS without prior client's approval and a documented Change request. You must enagage Red Hat support prior to the OS upgrade for assistance. This community revolves around discussions on Red Hat training courses and does not offer any product support. 

Some prerequisites for OS upgrade include :

• Check for the compatibility issues before doing the upgrade, i.e. for all Database, Cluster, Application compatibility checks must be performed by application teams or respective stakeholders before proceeding with the upgrade procedure.
• Considerations in adopting RHEL 8 : https://access.redhat.com/documentation/en-us/red_hat_enterprise_linux/8/html/considerations_in_adop... 
• Considerations in adopting RHEL 9 : https://access.redhat.com/documentation/en-us/red_hat_enterprise_linux/9/html/considerations_in_adop... 
• Perform the upgrade process on non production/test environment, before applying it directly on the production box.

There are some considerations one should brainstorm before planning OS upgrades such as 

• Maximizing your life cycle
• Application supportability
• Long-term stability
• Extending hardware retirement
• Kernel functionality etc.

Check the RHEL  Lifecycle guide here : https://access.redhat.com/support/policy/updates/errata/#RHEL8_and_9_Life_Cycle 

Reference guide for enaging with Red Hat support : https://access.redhat.com/sites/default/files/attachments/brochurereferenceguidetoengagingwithredhat... 

[puru85]

Great explanation @Chetan_Tiwary_ 
Thank you!