Difference between ML and TL in AIX

Difference between ML and TL in AIX

Maintenance Level
A Maintenance Level (ML) is the service updates that are necessary to upgrade the base operating system (BOS) or an optional software product to the current release level.

Starting in 2006, as part of the new AIX 5L Service Strategy, MLs are replaced by Technology Levels (TLs). They are defined below.

Technology Level
A Technology Level (TL) is the new term for the twice yearly AIX 5L releases, which contain new hardware and software features and service updates. The first TL will be restricted to hardware features and enablement, as well as software service. The second TL will include hardware features and enablement, software service, and new software features.

Installing a TL should be viewed as an "all or nothing" operation, meaning that requisites will be added so that the whole TL is installed, and not allow a TL to be partially installed. You should back up your system prior to installing a TL.

AIX updates Version 3: How to work the puzzle

there is no difference, technology level is the new name for maintenance level, sounds better :slight_smile:

edit: too late