Java Service Refreshes (SRs) and Service Refresh Fix Packs (SR FPs)

What are Java Service Refreshes and Java Service Refresh Fix Packs?

Maintenance updates for the IBM Runtimes and SDKs for Java are delivered as cumulative updates that replace the existing installation. This means that the latest maintenance update contains all the fixes and features included in earlier updates.

Service Refreshes (SRs) and Service Refresh Fix Packs (SR FPs) are the names of the cumulative maintenance updates used for the IBM Runtimes and SDKs.

What is the difference between a Service Refresh and a Service Refresh Fix Pack?

A Service Refresh is a major maintenance update to a given version. An SR contains all the available defect fixes, as well as any current feature enhancements.

A Service Refresh Fix Packs is a minor maintenance update to a given version. An SR FP is a cumulative update of defect fixes available since the last available SR.

For example:

1.4.2 SR 13 is a cumulative update of both defect fixes and feature updates since 1.4.2 SR 12.

1.4.2 SR 13 FP 1 is a cumulative update of defect fixes only, since 1.4.2 SR 13.

Should I install a Service Refresh or a Service Refresh Fix Pack?

Service Refresh Fix Packs contain defect fixes that might affect your deployment, or that might affect your deployment in the future. If the SR FP contains a defect fix that you feel is relevant to your deployment, you should consider installing the SR FP.

If you are planning an upgrade cycle, try to upgrade using a Service Refresh. This provides you with feature enhancements in addition to the defect fixes.

What should I do if I have a problem with a Service Refresh or a Service Refresh Fix Pack?

If you have an issue with a Service Refresh or a Service Refresh Fix Pack you should raise the issue through your normal support route.