ISSU is a process that upgrades an image to another image on a device while the network continues to forward packets. ISSU
helps network administrators avoid a network outage when performing a software upgrade. The images are upgraded in install
mode wherein each package is upgraded individually.
ISSU supports upgrade and rollback of software. It can be performed either in a single step, or in three-steps.
Cisco StackWise Virtual solution supports ISSU. This solution comprises of two switches that are connected together to form
one virtual switch. For more information, see the Configuring Cisco StackWise Virtual chapter in this guide.
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ISSU is supported in dual supervisor module configuration, on a standalone switch.
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With Cisco StackWise Virtual configured on the switch, ISSU is supported only in single supervisor module configuration.
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ISSU Upgrade
The following steps describe the process that is followed in performing ISSU:
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Copy the new image to the standby and active switches.
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Unzip the files and copy packages to both the active and standby switches.
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Install the packages on the standby switch.
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Restart the standby switch.
The standby switch is now upgraded to the new software.
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Install the packages on the active switch.
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Restart the active switch and switchover the standby to new active switch. After the switchover, the new standby switch will be up with the new software. The new software image is already installed on the new active switch, hence ISSU is completed.
ISSU Upgrade: 3-Step Work Flow
This workflow involves three steps—add, activate, and commit. After activation, all switches are upgraded to new software
version except that the software is not committed automatically but must be performed manually via the install commit command. The advantage of this approach is the system can be rolled back to a previous software version. The system automatically
rolls back if the rollback timer is not stopped using the install abort-timer-stop or the install commit command. If the rollback timer is stopped, the new software version could be run on the device for any duration and then
rolled back to the previous version.
ISSU Upgrade: 1-Step Work Flow
This workflow involves only one step and helps in optimization. You cannot roll back as the upgrade is committed automatically.