Prerequisites and Steps for Performing Ubuntu OS Upgrades via SanerNow CVEM

Overview

This article outlines the prerequisites and step-by-step procedure to upgrade Ubuntu operating systems to a higher supported version using Saner CVEM. The upgrade process must be handled carefully to ensure all required dependencies are in place before initiating the upgrade task.

Important Notes Before You Begin

• The OS upgrade patch in Saner CVEM triggers the upgrade process but does not handle dependency resolution or pending patch installations.

• If dependencies are missing or package lists are outdated, the upgrade may silently fail.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the System for Upgrade

On the target Ubuntu device, run the following commands to fix broken packages, update the package list, and upgrade existing packages:

sudo apt --fix-broken install
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade sudo apt full-upgrade

This ensures the system is fully patched and ready for a major version upgrade.

Step 2: Check for Remaining Upgradable Packages

Run:

apt list --upgradable

If this returns a long list of packages, it indicates that the system is not fully up-to-date. All critical and security-related patches should be installed before proceeding with an OS upgrade.

Step 3: Trigger the Upgrade Patch via SanerNow

1. Log in to the Saner CVEM console.

2. Navigate to Patch Management > Missing Patches.

3. Filter for the available Ubuntu Upgrade Patch based on your desired target version.

4. Select the device(s) and click Remediate to initiate the upgrade.

Saner CVEM will start the upgrade workflow based on the system's current package configuration.

Step 4: Allow Time for Upgrade Process

• Do not reboot or interrupt the device during the upgrade.

Step 5: Reboot the System:

This completes the upgrade process.

Step 6: Verify the Upgrade

After reboot, check the OS version:

lsb_release -a

Expected output will show the updated version (e.g., Ubuntu 24.04.5 LTS).

Best Practices

• Always validate the device's patch status before attempting an OS upgrade.

• Perform a dry run on a non-critical test system before mass deployment.

• Document post-upgrade behavior and validate via both system and SanerNow portal.