Microsoft Word Hardware Reconfiguration Methodology V final2

Long-term operating system maintenance
A Linux case study


R. Carbone DRDC Valcartier

Long-term operating system maintenance
A Linux case study

Richard Carbone DRDC Valcartier

Defence R&D Canada – Valcartier
Technical Note
DRDC Valcartier TN 2007-150 January 2008
Principal Author

Richard Carbone Programmer/Analyst

Approved by

Stéphan Paradis

Acting Head/Intelligence & Information Section

Norbert Haché (DMSS)

© Her Majesty the Queen as represented by the Minister of National Defence, 2008

© Sa Majesté la Reine, représentée par le ministre de la Défense nationale, 2008

Abstract

In Operating system hardware reconfiguration: A case study for Linux, it was determined through experimentation that a Linux-based C2 operating system can successfully undergo a hardware migration and operating system hardware reconfiguration. The direct benefit of this is the ability to forgo any new operating system reinstallation in order to support newer hardware by using mechanisms internal to the operating system that support changes in hardware; this results in a decreased waiting time for system reaccredidation and redeployment. Since an operating system can evolve over time, it can accommodate changes in the system’s hardware, thus presenting a tangible advantage for the Navy as this allows the operating system to be maintained over the long-term. However, there are complexities involved when maintaining an operating system for long periods. Therefore, this report serves as an introduction and a simple methodology for performing system maintenance-related tasks that include upgrading, updating, as well as data backups and restoration. This report is neither all-inclusive nor a replacement for qualified system administrators with years of experience. Instead, it can be used as a useful source of information to provide recommended practices, procedures, and information to help in planning for long-term system maintenance.
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