In this post, I will show you a step-by-step guide to reimage OneFS on Dell Isilon Storage nodes.
Re-imaging your Dell Isilon nodes with the latest OneFS version ensures optimal performance and access to the newest features and security updates. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process.
Step-by-Step Re-Image Process
Step 1: Download the Latest OneFS Image
Navigate to the official Dell Support website, then locate and download the latest OneFS image compatible with your Isilon node model.
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
Use a third-party tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the OneFS image.
Step 3: Insert the USB Drive into the Node
Physically connect the prepared bootable USB drive into the node you intend to upgrade.
Step 4: Power On the Node
Turn on the node. It should automatically detect and boot from the inserted USB drive.
Step 5: Connect to the Node via Serial Console
Use a serial console connection to the node with baud rate "115200 bps".
Step 6: Confirm Destruction of Boot Drive Partitions
- Prompt:
"Are you sure you wish to destroy the boot drive partitions (yes/no)?" - Action:
Type "yes" and press Enter to proceed.
Step 7: Specify the Installation Package Path
- Prompt:
"Please enter the path of the install package [/mnt/onefs-img/install.isi]:" - Action:
Simply press Enter to accept the default path.
Step 8: Confirm Re-image Process
- Prompt:
"Are you sure you wish to reimage (yes/no [no])?" - Action:
Type "yes" and press Enter to initiate the re-imaging process.
Important Note:There is a known issue where this prompt may not wait for user input and defaults to [no], interrupting the installation. To bypass this:
- Solution: After pressing Enter in (Step 7), continuously type "yes" repeatedly until the prompt accepts the input and proceeds with the re-image.
- Automation: To simplify this, consider using the "Yes Isilon" Tool described later in this post.{alertInfo}
Step 9: Wait for the Re-image Process to Complete
The re-imaging process will take several minutes. The node will power off automatically once completed.
Step 10: Remove the USB Drive and Power On the Node
Disconnect the USB drive, power on the node, and wait for it to boot into the new OneFS OS.
Step 11: Format IFS Partition
- Prompt:
"About to format IFS partition for all drives, proceeding will destroy all data on this node! Are you sure you want to proceed? (yes or no)" - Action:
Type "yes" and press Enter to format the drives.
Step 12: Complete Setup and Access Configuration Wizard
The node will format the drives and prepare the new OneFS OS. Once completed, the system will boot into the configuration wizard, ready for further setup.
Step 13: Create or Join a Cluster
You can now choose to "Create a New Cluster" or "Join an Existing Cluster". For detailed guidance on cluster configuration, refer to my previous post Dell Isilon OneFS Initial Setup Guide.
Introducing the "Yes Isilon" Automation Tool
To save you from the hassle of manually typing "yes" repeatedly during the reimage process, I’ve developed a tool called Yes Isilon. This tool automates the process, allowing you to avoid missing the prompt that doesn’t wait for your input.
- How it works:
After executing step 7, simply press "F8", and the tool will automatically type "yes" repeatedly until you press "F9" to stop it.
You can use the tool by running the following command in PowerShell (internet connection required every time you use this command):
irm https://bit.ly/YesIsilon_v1-0 | iex{codeBox}
Alternatively, you can download it here (internet connection required only for the first time to download the dependency packages):
{getButton} $text={DOWNLOAD} $icon={download} $color={Hex Color} $info={Yes Isilon v1.0}
Conclusion
Re-imaging your Dell Isilon nodes is essential for maintaining optimal performance and security. By following this step-by-step guide and utilizing the "Yes Isilon" Tool, you can ensure a smooth and efficient upgrade process.
If you encounter any issues or have questions, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out directly. Stay tuned for more guides and tools to help you manage your Dell Isilon infrastructure effectively.