When patching IIQ, what is the first step to take?

The first step when patching SailPoint IdentityIQ (IIQ) is to backup existing installation files and the database. This precautionary measure is critical because it ensures that you have a recovery point in case anything goes wrong during the patching process. By securing copies of all relevant files and the database, you protect your existing configurations and data against potential issues such as installation failures, data corruption, or unexpected behavior after applying the patch.

Backing up plays a vital role in maintaining service continuity and reducing downtime, as it allows administrators to restore the system to its prior functioning state if necessary. This foundational step is always emphasized in best practices for managing software updates or upgrades in any system environment, including IIQ.

The other steps, while important, occur later in the process. Executing the upgrade command, running regression tests, and unpacking upgrade files are subsequent actions that assume a stable backup is already in place. Without this initial safeguard, those steps could lead to significant disruption should the patch introduce complications.