Performing a dist-upgrade on a Linux server with Plesk can be a sensitive procedure, as it involves upgrading the entire operating system along with its packages. It's important to approach this with caution, as an incorrect upgrade can potentially break Plesk and its services.

Here are the general steps to perform a dist-upgrade:

1. Backup Your Data:

   • Before making any major changes to your server, it's crucial to back up all important data, including websites, databases, configurations, and any other critical files.

2. Check for Plesk Compatibility:

   • Review Plesk's documentation and support resources to ensure that your current version of Plesk is compatible with the target operating system version. Some Plesk versions may not be compatible with the latest OS releases.

3. Review OS Vendor Documentation:

   • Consult the documentation of your Linux distribution for specific instructions on performing a dist-upgrade. Different distributions may have their own procedures and best practices.

4. Update Plesk:

   • Ensure that Plesk is up-to-date before proceeding with the dist-upgrade:
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   plesk installer --select-release-current --reinstall-patch --upgrade-installed-components

5. Prepare the System:

   • Before starting the dist-upgrade, update your current package list:
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   sudo apt-get update

6. Perform the Dist-Upgrade:

   • Execute the dist-upgrade command, which will upgrade all packages and the OS:
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   sudo apt-get dist-upgrade
   • Follow the prompts and confirm any changes that are proposed.

7. Monitor the Upgrade Process:

   • Pay close attention to any messages or prompts that appear during the upgrade process. Address any issues that may arise.

8. Reboot the Server:

   • After the dist-upgrade is complete, reboot the server to apply any kernel or system-level changes:
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   sudo reboot

9. Verify Services:

   • After the reboot, ensure that all essential services (including Plesk) are running properly. Check websites, mail services, and any other critical functions.

10. Check Plesk Functionality:

    • Log in to the Plesk control panel and verify that all functions and features are working as expected.

11. Monitor for Issues:

    • Keep a close eye on the server for any signs of instability or problems that may have arisen as a result of the dist-upgrade.

12. Test Websites and Applications:

    • Test websites, applications, and databases hosted on the server to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Please note that if you're not experienced with server administration or Linux system upgrades, it's strongly recommended to consult with a professional or your hosting provider. Additionally, always perform these types of operations on a test or staging environment first, if possible, to minimize the risk of unexpected issues on a production server.