A line-of-business software patch notification is received indicating that version 5.0 requires a new OS and SQL version. What should the administrator perform FIRST?

Choosing to develop a plan to build a test server is the most logical first step when faced with a software patch notification that requires a new operating system (OS) and SQL version. This approach allows the administrator to create a separate controlled environment to evaluate the patch's performance and compatibility with the existing applications and systems without risking any disruptions to the live environment.

By setting up a test server, the administrator can safely install the new OS and SQL version along with the line-of-business software to identify any potential issues, conflicts, or unforeseen challenges that may arise from the update. This process minimizes risk by ensuring that critical business operations remain unaffected during the upgrade process.

Once the testing on the dedicated server is complete and successful, the administrator can then proceed with scheduling downtime to update the production environment. This careful planning and testing are crucial in enterprise environments where stability and uptime are paramount.

In summary, starting with creating a test server is a proactive approach that lays a solid foundation for a successful implementation of the software patch while safeguarding the integrity of ongoing operations.