Upgrade path for SN6600B

[jchen522]

We currently have 2 fabrics with three switches each.  We like to update/replace some of the switches.

The existing switches are running v8.2.0b and v8.2.1c with SwitchType 109.1 and 162.6 repsectively.  I believe SN6600B is equivalent to Brocade G620 switch, correct?

Is this the correct upgrade path v8.2.0b >> v9.0.x >> v9.1.1c >> v9.2.0a?

The new switches are running v9.0.1a switchtype 183.  The brocade release notes is a little confusing and I didn't find the exact version.  It seems to be that different switchtype has different interopability.  Will I be able to merge new switch running v9.0.1a switchtype 183 with old switches running v8.2.0b and v8.2.1c with switchType 109.1 and 162.6?

Is TrueFOS Certificate required whening upgrading to FOS v9.x? I read somewhere it seems to only applies to G630 and directors?

Thank you!

[Cali]

Welcome,

I believe SN6600B is equivalent to Brocade G620 switch, correct?

Yes

Is this the correct upgrade path v8.2.0b >> v9.0.x >> v9.1.1c >> v9.2.0a?

Yes and No. Search for "Fabric OS v9.2.0a Release Notes" and see 8.3 Migration Path.
Fabric OS v9.2.0a Release Notes Digest (broadcom.com)
Yes, if it is a 32GB Switch.
And No, in most times a Switch with 8.x Firmware is an 16GB Switch and you will see, that you cannot Update an 16GB Switch to Firmware 9.x.

 It seems to be that different switchtype has different interopability.

Yes, each Switch Type has a different minimum and maximum Firmware Version.

See "9.2.3 Fabric OS Compatibility", as result, I see that Type 109 is not able to Update to Firmware 9.x und Type 183 need min. FOS 9.0 in the Fabric.
This result, as most Times happens at my Customers, that we can not merge 8/16GB Switch and 32GB Switch in the same Fabric.

Is TrueFOS Certificate required whening upgrading to FOS v9.x?

I don't see G630 in the above Document. at Point 8.4

Cali

[jchen522]

Thank you for the quick response and explanation!

I agree with you that when it comes to v9.2.0a, it needs to be at least 9.0 in order for the fabric merge. But for v9.0.1e, it just needs to be at least v8.1.0. And for v9.1.1c, it just needs to be at least v.8.2.0, correct?

https://docs.broadcom.com/docs/FOS-911c-RN

https://docs.broadcom.com/docs/FOS-901e-RN

My new switch running v9.0.1a switchtype 183 should be able to merge with old switches running v8.2.0b and v8.2.1c with switchType 109.1 and 162.6? correct?

I may or may not be able to ugprade the firmware on the old switches, but I shoud be able to at least merge and move the cables over to the new switches? correct?

[Cali]

In that case, I would also say FOS 8.1.0 or higher should be suitable.