AIX 5L Problem Determination - IBM Redbooks

11.1 Overview
11.1.1 Terminology
11.1.2 Software layout
The biggest goal of all system administrators is to have an operating system
running well with current software installed on it. Installation of software fixes is
one of the actions an administrator must perform to keep a system error free.
Software problems most often occur when changes have been made to the
system, and either the prerequisites have not been met (for example, system
firmware is not at the minimum required level) or instructions have not been
followed exactly in order. You, as a system administrator, should carefully
choose the methodology to maintain your software inventory.
The following terms are useful for understanding software packaging:
Fileset The smallest individually installable unit. It is a collection
of files that provides a specific function. An example of a
fileset is bos.net.tcp.nfs 4.3.3.0.
Fileset update An individually installable update. Fileset updates either
enhance or correct a defect in a previously installed
fileset. An example of a fileset update is bos.net.tcp.nfs
4.3.3.10.
Package Contains a group of filesets with a common function. It is
a single, installable image. An example of a package is
bos.net.
LPP Licensed Program Product (LPP) is a complete software
product collection, including all packages and filesets. For
example, the Base Operating System (BOS) itself is an
LPP, which is a collection of packages and filesets.
PTF Program Temporary Fix (PTF). The PTF is an updated or
fixed fileset (or group of filesets). Each fix has an
Authorized Program Analysis Report (APAR) number.
Each software component is divided into three parts that support code serving
and diskless workstation:
root The root part of a software product contains the part of the
product that cannot be shared. In a client/server
environment, these are the files for which there must be a
unique copy for each client of a server. Most of the root
software is associated with the configuration of the
308 IBM ^ Certification Study Guide - AIX 5L Problem Determination Tools and Techniques