Learn about obtaining machine code updates for your HMC, server firmware, power subsystem firmware (if you have a model 575 or 59x server), I/O adapter and device, as well as operating system updates.
Updates provide changes to your software, Licensed Internal Code, or machine code that fix known problems, add new function, and keep your server or HMC operating efficiently. For example, you might install updates for your operating system in the form of a PTF (program temporary fix). Or, you might install a server firmware update with code changes that are needed to support new hardware or new functions of the existing hardware.
A good update strategy is an important part of maintaining and managing your server. If you have a dynamic environment that changes frequently, install updates on a regular basis. If you have a stable environment, you do not have to install updates as frequently. However, you should consider installing updates whenever you make any major software or hardware changes in your environment.
You can get updates using a variety of methods, depending on your service environment. For example, if you use an HMC to manage your server, you can use the HMC interface to download, install, and manage your HMC and firmware updates. If you do not use an HMC to manage your server, you can use the functions specific to your operating system to get your updates. In addition, you can download or order many updates through Internet Web sites.
You must manage several types of updates to maintain your hardware. The following figure shows the different types of hardware and software that might require updates.
