Updating CentOS 8.3 to Stream got Killed in the middle of process

2 min read 22-10-2024
Updating CentOS 8.3 to Stream got Killed in the middle of process

If you're trying to upgrade your CentOS 8.3 system to CentOS Stream but encounter a "Killed" error during the process, you're not alone. This issue can stem from various factors, including memory constraints or misconfigured repositories. In this article, we'll explore the steps to safely perform the upgrade and troubleshoot the errors you might face along the way.

Original Code for the Problem

The issue typically arises when running the following command to initiate the upgrade:

sudo dnf --setopt=deltarpm=false upgrade

While this command is standard, interruptions can occur, and the process can be halted unexpectedly, leading to incomplete upgrades.

Understanding the Problem

When you attempt to upgrade from CentOS 8.3 to CentOS Stream, the DNF (Dandified YUM) package manager tries to replace existing packages with their newer counterparts. The "Killed" error often indicates that the operation was terminated, which could be due to insufficient system resources like RAM. If the upgrade is interrupted, your system may end up in an unstable state.

Steps to Resolve the "Killed" Error

  1. Check System Resources: Before starting the upgrade, ensure your system has sufficient resources. Check memory usage with the following command:

    free -h
    

    If your available RAM is low, consider closing unnecessary applications or increasing your server's memory.

  2. Free Up Disk Space: Insufficient disk space can also cause failures. Use the following command to check disk usage:

    df -h
    

    Remove unnecessary files or packages if your disk is nearly full.

  3. Update DNF and System: Before the upgrade, ensure your DNF package manager and current system are up to date:

    sudo dnf clean all
    sudo dnf update
    
  4. Re-attempt the Upgrade: Try running the upgrade command again after ensuring resources are in check:

    sudo dnf --setopt=deltarpm=false upgrade
    
  5. Check for Errors: If you receive a "Killed" message again, check logs for any indication of what may have gone wrong:

    journalctl -xe
    

Example Scenario

Let’s say you have a CentOS 8.3 server with limited RAM and you attempt to upgrade to Stream. During the upgrade, the server runs out of memory, causing the "Killed" message. Instead of panicking, you can follow the steps above to address the resource issue.

Conclusion

Upgrading from CentOS 8.3 to CentOS Stream is generally a straightforward process, but issues like a "Killed" error can hinder your progress. By ensuring adequate system resources, updating your packages, and carefully following upgrade procedures, you can minimize disruptions.

For those interested in more information about CentOS Stream, consider visiting the CentOS Stream Documentation for comprehensive guidance.

Additional Resources

By following this guide, you will be better equipped to handle any interruptions during your upgrade process, ensuring a smoother transition to CentOS Stream.