Nutanix Certified Associate Practice Exam

When upgrading a cluster, what should be done to all nodes?

1. They should be shut down first

2. They should be upgraded to the lowest compatible AOS version

3. They should continue to run and will not be upgraded

4. They should be upgraded to the same AOS version

The correct answer is: They should be upgraded to the same AOS version

Upgrading all nodes in a Nutanix cluster to the same Acropolis Operating System (AOS) version is crucial for maintaining system stability and performance. This consistency ensures that all nodes operate seamlessly, as they will be running the same set of features, bug fixes, and optimizations provided in that AOS version. When nodes are at different AOS versions, it could lead to discrepancies in how data is processed, potential incompatibilities, and even system errors. A uniform AOS version across the cluster also simplifies management tasks and troubleshooting, as all nodes will behave in the same manner with respect to functionalities and capabilities. This practice helps in maintaining the health and reliability of the entire cluster during normal operations and especially during upgrades or maintenance. Keeping nodes on the same version contributes to better resource allocation, as load balancing and replication logic are optimized for a homogeneous software environment. It enables better coordination of operations like failover and data resiliency, which are foundational to the Nutanix architecture. Objective planning for upgrades typically involves validating that all nodes are compatible with the new version being deployed and that any prerequisites outlined in the release notes are met prior to commencing the upgrade process. This approach solidifies a robust and stable Nutanix environment.