Install techniques for z/VM

• Traditional installation installs a new z/VM system or SSI cluster on a set of DASDs, which can be customized.
• Upgrade installation uses a temporary work system installed as a second level guest of the current release to be upgraded. The new level of code from the work system is then moved to the current system with minimal impact to the current running system.

Which technique to use?

• New to the IBM z/VM operating system or installing a new system, use the traditional installation method. The z/VM Installation Guide for the release being installed will provide all the required information. A copy of the z/VM Installation Guide is included with the product order. It can also be referenced based on the release to be installed using the 'Change version or product' drop down from the IBM Documentation Center.

• Looking to upgrade to the next available z/VM release? Find out if upgrade is right for your installation and understand the requirements for Upgrade In Place.

z/VM V7 Installation Media

Once you have placed a z/VM product order, it will arrive as a set of download links. The installation media deliverable will include:

1. z/VM System Image (either 3390 or SCSI). Starting with z/VM 7.2, the System Image is on two discs.
2. z/VM Recommended Service Upgrade RSU. The first RSU for a release is delivered on Disc 2 of your product order and is installed automatically.
3. Any optional priced features User Memos or IBM licensed products ordered
4. Instructions for receiving you order. For electronic orders, the instructions for downloading your product materials are found in the z/VM download instructions.
5. The z/VM Installation Guide

If you are upgrading you may have individual service (PTFs/APARs) on the system to be upgraded that is not included in the new level of z/VM. You can use the CHKAPARS tool to verify whether all service you have is included in the new level of z/VM.

NOTE: It can't be stressed enough that reading and planning is critical to the success of both traditional installation and upgrade installation. Please read the z/VM Installation Guide and fill out all applicable worksheets.

Installation RSU Service Levels

z/VM 7.4 System Deliverable service level
September 2024 deliverable includes the 7401 RSU with component service levels:
CP: Service level 0001
LE: Service level 2301
ICKDSF: Service level 2301

z/VM 7.3 System Deliverable service level
September 2022 deliverable includes the 7301 RSU with component service levels:
CP: Service level 2201
ICKDSF: Service level 1901

z/VM 7.2 System Deliverable service level
September 2020 deliverable includes the 7201 RSU with component service levels:
CP: Service level 2001
LE: Service level 2001
ICKDSF: Service level 1901

z/VM 7.1 System Deliverable service level
September 2018 deliverable includes the 7101 RSU with component service levels:
CP: Service level 1801
LE: Service level 1701
TCPIP: Service level 1801
ICKDSF: Service level 1802

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