The Dell iDRAC SUP0108 error indicates a "deployment or update operation is already in progress," often triggered by a hung process, stuck RAM drive, or a false positive during firmware updates. Resolution typically involves resetting the iDRAC, clearing the job queue, or performing a cold boot to clear stuck, temporary data. For detailed troubleshooting, see the official Dell Knowledge Base. iDRAC10 Version 1.20.25.00 Release Notes
The error code ("A deployment or update operation is already in progress") is a Dell Lifecycle Controller message typically encountered during iDRAC or system firmware updates.
It indicates that the system's update engine is currently busy or locked by a previous task Immediate Solutions Wait for Completion
: Initial firmware packages can take over 5 minutes to download, and full updates may take much longer depending on network speed. Some users report stuck updates eventually completing after several hours. Reset the iDRAC
: If the operation is genuinely stuck, you can reset the iDRAC to clear the active update job.
This can be done via the iDRAC web interface or by holding the "i" button on the physical server for 16 seconds. Perform a Cold Boot
: This error often occurs because a RAM drive created for a previous upgrade was not cleared. Shut down the server, unplug the power cables for 10 seconds, and restart to clear the drive. Server Fault Troubleshooting Stuck Jobs Clear the Job Queue
: Use RACADM commands to forcibly clear the job queue if the UI is unresponsive. Check for Ghost Processes The Dell iDRAC SUP0108 error indicates a "deployment
: This message sometimes appears even when no operation is active if the Lifecycle Controller was not closed properly. Alternative Update Methods
: If updating via the Lifecycle Controller continues to fail, try updating directly through the iDRAC web interface by uploading the Windows 64-bit firmware file. Best Practices for Firmware Updates Sequential Updates
: For older systems, avoid skipping too many versions at once; perform updates in smaller "steps". Avoid High CPU Loads
: Do not perform firmware updates when the CPU is under heavy utilization, as it may impact cooling and stability. Use the Right File : Ensure you are using the correct
image rather than just the self-extracting executable in some interface modes. RACADM commands to clear the job queue or instructions for a physical power drain iDRAC10 Version 1.20.25.00 Release Notes - Dell
The error code is a common event message found in Dell PowerEdge servers
, specifically within the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller ( A validation-only deployment still holds the lock
) and Lifecycle Controller (LC). It indicates that "A deployment or update operation is already in progress" and prevents you from starting new firmware updates or mounting drivers. Core Cause Analysis
This error typically occurs when the system detects a "lockfile" or active process that hasn't cleared, even if no operation appears active in the UI. Stuck RAM Drive
: The iDRAC installer sometimes places a RAM drive on the host OS to extract firmware. If this isn't cleared after a previous run, subsequent updates are blocked. Failed Previous Jobs
: A job that failed during file transfer can leave the system in a "Downloading" or "Timeout" state, blocking the queue. Lifecycle Controller in Use
: The error can trigger if the Lifecycle Controller is active for another task, such as hardware inventory or a background driver pack update. Server Fault Step-by-Step Resolution Guide 1. Immediate Workaround: Reset iDRAC
The fastest way to clear stuck locks and "New" job states is to perform a soft reset of the iDRAC. This does not affect the host operating system's availability. Via Web UI : Log in to iDRAC, go to the Maintenance tab, select Diagnostics , and click Reset iDRAC Via CLI (RACADM) : Run the command racadm racreset 2. Clear the Job Queue
If the reset doesn't work, there may be a persistent job blocking the queue. iDRAC10 Version 1.20.25.00 Release Notes - Dell the system should:
sfdx force:mdapi:listdeployments -u <target_org>
Or with the new sf CLI:
sf deploy metadata list -o <target_org>
If an active deployment ID appears, cancel it:
sfdx force:mdapi:cancel -i <deploymentId> -u <target_org>
The orchestrator locks the service to prevent conflicting changes. If a previous update just finished, the lock might take a few seconds to release.
WSUS needs regular database maintenance. Use a scheduled script to run the WSUS Server Cleanup Wizard weekly via PowerShell to prevent database bloat that leads to locks.
Prevent overlapping deployment/update operations while avoiding crashes or manual intervention. Instead of failing immediately, the system should:
A corrupted WSUS database often causes ghost operations. Run the cleanup outside of ConfigMgr.