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Status Needs more information
Workspace AIX
Created by Guest
Created on Apr 28, 2026

RELATED IDEAS

Full Automation of AIX "autofsinstall" via system defined lpp_source

AIX 7.3 TL4 introduced the 'autofsinstall' functionality, which enables the automatic installation of missing packages. While this feature significantly streamlines operations, it currently requires the manual mounting of an 'lpp_source' from the NIM server prior to use.

To further enhance this workflow, it would be highly beneficial to introduce a system variable to store the designated lpp_source. Ideally, the autofsinstall mechanism should leverage this variable to automatically handle the allocation and deallocation of NIM resources. This improvement would eliminate the need for manual intervention, providing a fully automated package management experience.

Idea priority Medium
  • Guest
    May 19, 2026
    if the user allocates an lpp_source, that should already be sufficient for the current autofsinstall workflow. When a command is not found, the system automatically searches the previously allocated lpp_source, identifies the required fileset, and installs it successfully.
    In addition, the allocated lpp_source remains associated with the client even after the installation completes, effectively retaining the software source for future requests as well.


    Example:
    nimclient -o allocate -a lpp_source=AIX73TL4SP0
    nslookup
    ksh: nslookup: not found.
    nslookup belongs to fileset bind.rte. It's not installed on the system. Do you want to install it? (y/Yes).
    y
    Installation Summary
    bind.rte 7.3.918.2802 APPLY SUCCESS
    bind.rte for command nslookup successful.


    Given this behavior, the existing allocation mechanism already appears to address the requirement of identifying and retaining the designated lpp_source.
    Would you still see value in introducing a separate system variable for the lpp_source? If so, could you please share the additional use case or scenario you have in mind beyond the current functionality?
    Reply

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