How to Update Sage 300 on Workstations 17.1 Rev 8

You'll need to have your:

• Registration Name
• Sage Client ID (10-digit number starting with 4)
• Current Sage Business Care plan
• Sufficient disk space
• Appropriate operating system service pack installed

Preparing Your System

A comprehensive system preparation is essential for a successful upgrade. Start by running File Doctor on all files in your current version. This step is crucial as certain issues may become unfixable after upgrading to version 17.1.

Create a complete backup of:

• All Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate data
• Program files
• Custom reports
• Database configurations

Upgrade Path Verification

The upgrade path must be verified before proceeding with the installation. Different starting versions require specific upgrade paths:

From Version 18.1.x

• Direct upgrade to version 20.x is possible

From Version 16.1.x or 17.1.x

• First upgrade to 18.4
• Then upgrade to version 20

From Version 15.1.x

• Upgrade to 17.1
• Then to 18.4
• Finally to version 20

Installation Process

Server-Side Installation

1. Verify that all users have exited the Sage 300 system
2. Share the Sage 300 Program and Data folder on the network
3. Install the required version on the server first
4. Configure the database setup on the server

Workstation Setup

The workstation installation process requires careful attention to detail:

1. Navigate to the shared Sage 300 Program folder from the workstation
2. Locate the WSSetup folder
3. Execute the setup.exe file
4. Follow the installation wizard prompts
5. Specify the correct Programs and Data path pointing to the server location

Database Configuration

After completing the workstation installation, configure the database:

1. Navigate to Sage 300 ERP Database Setup
2. Enter the administrator password
3. Verify the database connection
4. Confirm the database server connectivity

Special Considerations

Document Management

For users upgrading from versions prior to 15.1, be aware that Document Management includes changes to DocuVault indexes, which may require significant processing time. Schedule these upgrades during non-work hours.

Service Management and Inventory

Special attention must be paid when upgrading Service Management, Purchasing, and Inventory applications:

• These must be upgraded at the server
• The upgrade must be performed while logged into the server console
• Remote Desktop sessions should not be used for these upgrades
• Performing these upgrades on a workstation will result in incorrect DSN settings

Post-Installation Tasks

Custom Reports Upgrade

If you have custom Crystal Reports designs from version 13.1 or earlier:

1. Access the upgrade tool through the Sage Administration program group
2. Select the reports requiring upgrade
3. Follow the upgrade wizard prompts

Data File Verification

After installation:

1. Verify all accounting and management application data files are upgraded
2. Check database connectivity from each workstation
3. Test all integrated applications
4. Verify custom report functionality

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Database Connection Issues

If experiencing database connectivity problems:

• Verify network connectivity
• Check shared folder permissions
• Confirm database server settings
• Ensure proper DSN configuration

Performance Optimization

To maintain optimal system performance:

• Regular database maintenance
• Periodic file integrity checks
• System resource monitoring
• Regular backups

Best Practices

System Maintenance

Maintain system integrity by:

• Scheduling regular backups
• Monitoring system logs
• Keeping anti-virus software updated
• Regular system performance checks

Security Considerations

Implement proper security measures:

• User access controls
• Regular password updates
• Secure network configurations
• Audit trail monitoring

Future Considerations

Stay prepared for future updates by:

• Maintaining current backups
• Documenting custom modifications
• Keeping system requirements updated
• Planning upgrade schedules during off-peak hours

Remember that Sage typically supports the most recent two versions of the software with product updates. Staying current with updates ensures continued support and access to the latest features and security improvements.

Regular maintenance and proper upgrade procedures will ensure your Sage 300 system continues to operate efficiently and reliably. Always consult with your Sage partner or support team when undertaking major version upgrades to ensure all specific requirements for your installation are addressed.

Sources: [1] https://support.eosgroup.com/support/solutions/articles/5000870701-sage-300-construction-and-real-estate-and-sage-estimating-pervasive-sql-upgrade-paths [2] https://cdn.na.sage.com/Docs/en/customer/300cre/17_1/open/UserGuide.pdf [3] https://www.top-sage-resellers.com/blog/sage-300-erp-how-to-install-activate-tax-updates [4] https://www.greytrix.com/blogs/sageaccpacerp/2013/05/16/installation-of-sage-300-erp-workstation-setup/ [5] http://help.sage300.com/en-us/2023/classic/Content/ConnectedServices/HRManagement/Workstation_Setup.htm [6] https://www.baass.com/blog/best-practices-for-upgrading-and-updating-sage-software [7] https://help.sage300.com/en-us/2023/classic/Content/ConnectedServices/HRManagement/Workstation_Setup.htm