PowerSwitch: Enterprise SONiC: Getting Started and Basics Guide
Summary: This article helps getting started and answers some basic questions about Dell Networking Enterprise SONiC.
Instructions
Index
Hardware Compatibility
The Dell Networking Enterprise SONiC distribution is a Debian Linux based operating system derived from the open source "Software for Open Networking in the Cloud" project. Dell Enterprise SONiC is designed to run on PowerSwitch platforms. For a full list of compatible models and software versions, see the Dell Enterprise SONiC Spec Sheet.
To find the current recommended versions for your platform, see Minimum, Recommended and Latest Code Versions for Networking Products.
How to Download
If a PowerSwitch was ordered with SmartFabric OS10 or Enterprise SONiC, a notification is sent to the email address in the purchase order. The email includes an Entitlement ID, order number, and a link to My Account. The software can be found in the section "Software Licenses and Subscriptions" > "Software Licenses".
If your purchase was completed through a certified Dell channel partner, request the partner to transfer the entitlement to you using your email address.
Note: Enterprise SONiC images are available in multiple versions. Ensure that you download the correct version for your PowerSwitch and license agreement. For example, “vs_standard” is a virtual switch and is not intended for download on an Enterprise SONiC switch.
License
Though licenses exist for Dell Enterprise SONiC, the installation of licenses into the Operating System itself has not yet been implemented. Software licenses are available in the My Account in the section "Software Licenses and Subscriptions" > "Software Licenses".
For more information about My Account, see How to Access Your Dell Software Licenses and Digital Subscriptions.
Installation, Upgrade, and Downgrade
- To Install Enterprise SONiC on a switch with no Operating System or to do a fresh/clean installation, see Dell Networking SONiC OS Fresh Install using ONIE Install
- To Upgrade or Downgrade, see Dell Networking SONiC: Upgrade or Downgrade SONiC Using SCP Protocol with Software like WINSCP
Some important information to be aware of:
- ONIE and relevant firmware versions - these are addressed in the guide, but some notable upgrades have occurred, including PCIe and SSD firmware (model dependent) - that information can be found in the relevant ONIE release notes.
- If using SmartFabric Manager for SONiC, it is possible to have alternative upgrade options; see the relevant fabric manager guide for more information
Enterprise SONiC Installation Video
Operating System Install Video: YouTube
Documentation
For additional documentation, including User Guides and Release Notes, see the Dell Enterprise SONiC Documentation on the Dell Support site.