Saturday
August 27, 2011
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Services Affected (avoid these during the window)
- Active Directory file storage (Home, Shared, Project folders)
- Research servers
- Unix-based file servers (clio and thalia)
- Database servers
- CLA Terminal Server
- Linux Terminal Server
- Web servers
Services Not Affected (common services that users often ask about)
- Google Apps (Gmail, Docs, Sites)
Specific Details
- Security Patching:
- operating system and application patches for all servers
- Hardware Changes:
- physically moving servers
- perform routine maintenance tasks which will require rebooting most Unix servers
FAQ
What is a "system maintenance window"?
In order to correct a technical issue, install a security patch, or upgrade server hardware, CLA-OIT must occasionally disrupt normal networked services. Whenever possible, we plan such service outages in advance during times that minimize the disruption to our users.
Can I work during the maintenance window?
In general, CLA-OIT recommends that you avoid using the affected services during the maintenance window. Systems may be available during the maintenance window, but they can and will be shut down without warning and may be unavailable for hours at a time. So, use only at your own risk.
Can't this be done without disrupting service?
Certain tasks require server reboots and/or physically unplugging electricity. We do our best to group these tasks together to minimize the number of outages we schedule each year--which is generally less than five.
Can you reschedule this window to a more convenient time?
CLA-OIT strives to select times that minimize disruption. It isn't possible to pick a time that will not affect somebody. We also have to consider the availability of our staff and central OIT staff who run the data centers and networks. We try to soften the impact by announcing maintenance windows well in advance.
How do I find out more?
If you have any questions or concerns contact us at 612-624-4357 (4-help) or 4help@umn.edu.
CLA-OIT System Maintenance Windows Google Calendar
Subscribe at: http://z.umn.edu/maintenance
