Octez-Setup: Installation & Migration Solution

(Nov 14, 2024 - Feb 28, 2025)

Context

Octez v24 (RC: Nov 14, forced activation: ~Jan 28) removes installers, shipping binary-only packages. This milestone establishes octez-setup as the official installation and migration tool for the Tezos ecosystem, providing a critical path for users migrating from Debian-based installations.

Objectives

Deliver a production-ready installation and migration tool that allows existing Tezos node operators to seamlessly transition to the new binary-only distribution model.

Work Breakdown

Phase 1: Core Migration Engine

• Design and implement Debian service discovery logic
• Build configuration parser for Debian package formats
• Create service conversion engine (Debian → octez-setup)
• Implement migration wizard UI flow (TUI)
• Add CLI migration commands with JSON export

Phase 2: Testing Infrastructure

• Generate test fixtures from real Debian package artifacts
• Implement fixture-based E2E migration tests
• Add TUI smoke tests for migration wizard
• Create CLI integration tests for migration commands
• Docker-based E2E tests against live Debian packages (node)
• Docker-based E2E tests for baker migration scenarios

Phase 3: User Experience & Polish

• Document CLI migration workflow
• Document TUI migration workflow with keybindings
• Add troubleshooting guide and rollback procedures
• Implement post-migration success confirmation modal
• Add contextual help screens for first-time users
• Create interactive tutorial for migration flow

Phase 4: Distribution (CRITICAL PATH)

• Create Debian package (.deb) for octez-setup
• Set up apt repository infrastructure
• Document installation procedure for end users
• Verify package dependencies and system requirements
• Test installation on clean Debian/Ubuntu systems

Phase 5: Production Validation

• User acceptance testing with real Debian package users
• Performance testing with large node configurations
• Security audit of configuration data handling
• Pre-release validation with Tezos node operators

Success Criteria

• Debian package available via apt repository before v24 forced activation
• All E2E migration tests pass for both node and baker scenarios
• Complete documentation covering all migration paths
• Zero data loss in migration validation tests
• Positive feedback from early adopter testing

Timeline Milestones

• Nov 14: Octez v24 RC release
• Dec 15: Debian package and repository ready
• Jan 15: Complete testing and documentation
• Jan 28: Ready for v24 forced activation
• Feb 28: Post-deployment support and refinements