Updating ARM64 Workers to Ubuntu Noble
Early in the upgrade program for Ubuntu 24.04, there were permission issues when extracting tar files. The workaround was to update to the latest dev version of Docker. However, this didn’t resolve all the issues on ARM64, so only one machine was updated and excluded from the base image builder work.
In the early stages of the Ubuntu 24.04 upgrade program, teams encountered permission issues when attempting to extract tar files on ARM64 systems. These problems posed a significant challenge to the smooth transition to the new version, as they disrupted the workflow and required immediate attention.
The initial response to these permission issues was to implement a workaround by updating to the latest development version of Docker. This move was intended to address the extraction problems and ensure that the systems could function as expected during the upgrade process. However, despite the update, not all issues on ARM64 platforms were resolved.
The lingering problems on ARM64 systems necessitated a more targeted approach. To mitigate the risks associated with these unresolved issues, it was decided to update only a single ARM64 machine as part of the upgrade program. This machine was then excluded from the critical task of building base images, which involved extracting tar files and other operations that had proven problematic.
By limiting the scope of the upgrade to a single machine, teams aimed to minimize potential disruptions and ensure that the core infrastructure remained stable. This cautious approach allowed them to continue working on resolving the underlying issues while maintaining the integrity of the base image builder work.
The decision to update only one ARM64 machine also provided valuable insights into the nature of the problems. As teams continued to investigate and troubleshoot, they gained a deeper understanding of the specific challenges faced by ARM64 systems during the Ubuntu 24.04 upgrade. This knowledge will be crucial in refining the workaround strategies and developing more robust solutions to ensure a successful and seamless transition for all ARM64 workers in the future.
In the meantime, the exclusion of the upgraded machine from the base image builder work helped to maintain the stability and reliability of the system. It allowed teams to focus on resolving the issues without the added pressure of disrupting essential operations. As the team continues to work on the upgrades and improvements, they remain committed to addressing the ARM64-specific challenges to ensure a smooth and successful transition to Ubuntu 24.04 for all workers.
