Google may decide that machines in a GGC node should be replaced with new hardware. This process is called a "node refresh".
This process is initiated by Google, usually by the ISP Peering Coordinator. The Peering Coordinator opens a ticket in the ISP Portal which will drive the process.
Google will notify you by mail when a node refresh is needed. Emails are sent to the addresses shown in your ISP Portal Contacts Page.
After delivery of the new hardware, Google will ask you to schedule the most convenient date and time for the node refresh to start.
Principle Features of a Node Refresh
- All old machines are decommissioned at the same time.
- All old machines can be un-racked and replaced at the same time.
- All new machines can be installed at the same time.
- All new machines are configured and put into service by Google at the same time.
Node Refresh Process
- Google decommissions all of the old machines; all are drained and wiped at the same time.
- Google emails you when this process is complete and the old machines can be un-racked and replaced. This information is also displayed in the GGC Ticket in the ISP Portal tracking the node refresh.
- Your staff installs all the new machines.
- When all the new machines are installed and have called home to Google's servers, Google completes the configuration of the new machines. If one of the machines fails to install, use the ticket tracking the refresh to send a message to Google with details about the problem.
- Google emails you when the node refresh is complete and the new machines are serving as intended.
- Your staff prepares the old machines for pick up by the machine vendor.
Each email from the GGC Team to your staff will contain a link to the ticket tracking the refresh in the ISP Portal. The ticket will display the state of the node refresh.
Prepare for a Node Refresh
- Read the current GGC installation instructions
- Download the current GGC installation image, and prepare the installation media
- Ensure that the GGC Partner's staff who will be involved in the node refresh are included on the ISP Portal Contacts page, and have at least the "Rack Updates" and "Work Items" roles assigned