Prepare to create a primary server

Take these steps before you create a new primary Data Archive server or promote a secondary server to become a primary server.

1. If you are working with an existing system, make sure that a valid Data Archive backup is available.

2. If necessary, upgrade PI SDK, PI Interface Configuration Utility (ICU), PI Buffer Subsystem (pibufss), and any interface nodes to the latest versions.

   Note: Some data loss may occur while restarting interfaces and pibufss if interfaces do not support history recovery.

   We always recommend upgrading to the latest version, if possible, because it is typically the most stable and secure.

3. Confirm that there are no major issues with an existing Data Archive. If any issues do exist, attempt to resolve them before setting up the new collective.

   For example, you can check the Data Archive message logs to confirm that there are no unexpected errors.

   For more information about error messages, see the Data Archive Troubleshooting checklist. You may also want Verification that PI Data Archive processes are running.