[FresnoDoug]

I'm currently running 4.1.3 with 10 users. I have downloaded the SP6 installer (besx_upgrader_4.1.6.exe) but can find no documentation on how to install it. The release notes list a bunch of fixes and improvements, but no instructions.

BES has been running stable since I installed it last year, but I have not installed any service packs which is probably not good because I see that there are some security vulnerabilities that need to be patched. But before I proceed I want to be clear on the basic steps of the upgrade process.


Can someone point me to the right documentation or some other source of information on how to correctly apply BES service packs?

Thanks,

--Doug

[Jadey]

I'm not sure it makes too much difference, but... what is your underlying mail system & version?

[FresnoDoug]

Oops, sorry...it is Exchange 2003, on Windows Server 2003.

I do keep Exchange and Windows Server patched

[freakinvibe]

In the same place where you downloaded SP6 you can find a bunch of documents, one is called:

"BlackBerry Enterprise Server for Microsoft Exchange - Upgrade Guide"

http://na.blackberry.com/eng/deliver..._427686_11.pdf

Just download this PDF and read it.

[FresnoDoug]

I had already read that document but was concerned that it did not apply...it has sections on upgrading from 4.0, 3.6, and 3.5, but none of those cases seem to apply -- I am already at 4.1.3.

Is applying SP6 to an existing 4.1.x installation the same process as upgrading from 4.0?

[knottyrope]

It is not an version upgrade, but a service pack.

Backup the data base and do the service pack.
The installer will do most of the work for you if you have services started.
SNMP might require a reboot if started.

Thats about all you need to do.

[freakinvibe]

You can use the instructions for an in-place upgrade from a 4.0 version. These are the steps:

- Backup your SQL database
- Run besx_upgrader_4.1.6.exe
- Apply MR2 (besx416mr2.msp)

This is for a single server. If you have, for example, the BB router service on a different server, you have to apply the SP and MR separately.

[sowens6]

I need to move up to 4.1.6 MR2 from 4.1.0. I read this that the Service Packs are cumulative meaning I don't have to do Sp1 then Sp2, then Sp3 etc.... and I can just go straight to SP6 then apply the MR2.

Just double checking before I pull the trigger.

BTW -- I am on Windows 2003 Server, Exchange 2003 on SBS.

Thanks,
Steve

[knottyrope]

Correct sowens6 they are culmative

[sowens6]

thanks knottyrope... two more questions.
1. MR2 is cumulative, meaning I don't have to do MR1, right?.
2. One of my users wants to install the 4.5 OS on his Curve handheld now. That OS will work with 4.1.0 right? I don't have to have the upgrade done first?

[freakinvibe]

1. Yes, MR2 is cumulative. You don't need to install MR1.

[sowens6]

Great - thanks guys - doing the upgrade tomorrow. _ Steve

[CarterTan]

I will always recommend BESAdmin to backup their BlackBerry Configuration Database before performing an upgrade of service packs. If the upgrade fails, you can always roll back to the previous database.

The Database Schema will be upgraded when you move from 4.1.3 to 4.1.6.

Running on a half upgraded schema is not good for the BES. Search for Best Practices for upgrades for BlackBerry Enterprise Server in BTSC.