Software distribution is a core IT task – especially in distributed Domino environments with multiple servers and installations. With HCL Domino version 14, HCL introduces a new tool to the server: Domino AutoUpdate. This feature simplifies update management, ensures transparency, and makes distributing new versions predictable – without manual download chaos or individual actions.
What is Domino AutoUpdate?
AutoUpdate is a server-side feature that allows administrators to centrally download and selectively distribute new Domino versions and components. The entire process runs through a new database called autoupdate.nsf and can be fully controlled via the administrator or Notes client.
Two operating modes are available:
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Notify Only (AutoNotify): The administrator is informed about available updates, sees them in a special view in the Domino Directory, and receives information on the console when the server starts.
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Notify and Download: In addition to notifications, the available software catalog is downloaded, processed, and stored locally in the Domino environment.
The software catalog: Always up-to-date
AutoUpdate is based on an automatically maintained software catalog that is regularly updated with the My HCLSoftware Portal The database is synchronized. The latest versions of Domino, Traveler, and other HCL components are available there. As soon as an update is available, it becomes visible in the database – along with detailed information such as platform, version, and release date.
A server in the Domino domain is designated as the download server. This server retrieves the data from the HCL portal, stores it locally, and makes it available for distribution. Communication is secure via HTTPS, and a proxy can be used if necessary.
Distribute updates – manually or scheduled
A major advantage of AutoUpdate is the ability to distribute updates selectively – either to individual servers or to so-called deployment groups. These groups can be freely defined and bundle together, for example, cluster members, geographically related servers, or test systems.
Distribution is handled via autoupdate.nsf: Administrators select the desired update, choose target servers or groups, and schedule the distribution process. The software is then automatically transferred to the corresponding directories on the target servers – the installation time remains flexible and can be performed manually.
Support for Notes clients
Although the focus is on Domino servers, AutoUpdate now also supports Notes installations. Starting with HCL Domino 14.0 Fixpack 1, integration with the Notes Auto Update Catalog can be enabled. In this case, downloaded Notes installation packages are automatically transferred to the catalog server (Windows clients only).
For companies with many Notes installations, this opens up new options to combine centralized control and local distribution.
Why AutoUpdate is worthwhile
Especially in larger IT environments, manually maintaining software versions is error-prone, time-consuming, and outdated. Domino AutoUpdate offers a clear advantage here:
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Central control of all software updates
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Time savings in downloading, distribution, and planning.
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Improved overview of versions and distribution
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Flexibility through deployment groups and manual installation control
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Future-proofing through integration into the platform's standard
Anyone planning to deploy HCL Domino Version 14 across the board should implement AutoUpdate right away – it will quickly pay for itself in everyday use.
Conclusion
With AutoUpdate, HCL takes a significant step towards modern software distribution. The feature is deeply integrated into the Domino architecture and offers everything IT departments need for streamlined update management. Once you've experienced its benefits, you won't want to go back to manual processes.
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