A method for providing a dormant state for content management servers is provided. Client devices are allowed to conduct transactions with servers when the servers are active. However, in a dormant state, the servers are not allowed to accept new transactions. Thus, by utilizing the dormant state, software upgrades can be made to one server at a time. Alternatively, all servers can be taken down for major upgrades, with the servers still operated in a read-only mode based on a file image from a point in time just prior to the shutdown. When the upgrade is completed, the servers can be returned to the active state.