INSTALLING / APPLYING SP4 OR SP3 HOTFIX TO EXCH 5.5

[tmandu]

I am running MS EXCHANGE 5.5 with SP3.
I have to install INOCULATE IT 6.0 but they are requiring that I either install HOTFIX 248838 to SP3 or to install SP4 (which of course includes all these fix's). I have them both, MS gives no explanation on how to install these.

While perusing the MS support /Knowledge base etc. I see that there is much debate and problems with SP4. So now I am getting gun shy with SP4 AND A LITTLE WITH THE HOTFIX.

QUESTION: Which do I install and how ? I don't want to create any more problems ! ANy one with any experience doing this please drop a note.

 

[age]

I would suggest installing SP4, and then go to

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?url=/technet/security/current.asp

and do a search for fixes for Exchange 5.5 with SP4 installed, and then install those aswell! In my opinion there are usually more problems to be gained from sticking with an older service pack, especially with Microsoft...

To install SP4, you simply run the update.exe file in the SP4 package, or on the CD.

good luck.....

 

[tmandu]

Thanks, that makes me feel better. One or two more questions though.

1. there is no "update.exe" in my download for service
pack 4.....(13 files) starting with SP4_550I.exe (CORE SERVER NETSETUP.) Is this the file you mean.

2. I will backup Exchange before I start. Then SHUT it DOWN
(i'm not sure how to do this). It always starts up when I shut the server down). how does one shut it down ? (sounds newbie like, but I have never just stopped it) how about all the services runnning also. Should I check for any EXCHANGE related services and how.

3. I would then start running the files one after another from the NT command prompt --
is the update.exe in the unzipped files,,,a-ha maybe I answererd my own question.

4. Next apply the security patches/fixes for sp4 you pointed out.

4b. Does it now where it was installed to and where to apply the patch to ?? or do i have to tell it ?? OR is it standard that it is the c:\exchsrvr directory ?

5. Bring exchange back up and it should be fine ,,, I hope.

Sorry new at some of this,
THanks in advance.

 

[northernbloke]

The services are controlled from the services applet in control panel (of all places)

Set all the microsoft exchange services to disabled, also the ms mail & ms schedule if installed.

Reboot and then do the backup - this will allow a backup of all data stores. Set the services back to Automatic - dont start them, then start installing service packs.

I believe that the service packs are a one way process - so backup the system drive as well.

A Northern Bloke.