Two versions of AIX are currently available: 4.3.3 and 5.1. Installation media is available with the purchase of new machines, or it is available to you on CD-ROM media or via NFS mount as ISO images.

To acquire CD-ROM copies of the latest AIX release or access to the NFS mounts of this software send email to aix@post.doit.wisc.edu. Do this well in advance of when you need them, so we have time to copy the media for you!

You should read the IBM AIX Installation Guide for AIX 4.3.3 or 5.1 before beginning. IBM has also published some installation tips for AIX 4.3.3 and 5.1, which we have mirrored locally.

DoIT has a specific manner in which it installs AIX on IBM pSeries hardware, in order to maximize reliability and minimize support issues. Those installation checklists and guidelines for AIX 4.3.3 and 5.1 are listed here for your convenience. Note that just because we think things are a good idea doesn't necessarily mean it's right for you (your mileage may vary). They are, after all, guidelines.

If you are migrating/upgrading to a new version of AIX from an older version (4.2.1 to 4.3.3, for example) you need to read a little more. It's a delicate operation (if you want a working system afterwards).

We do have notes on upgrading IBM AIX 4.3.3 to AIX 5.1.