MSS's SonicWall Firmware Policy
Description
Firmware Testing Period
As a best practice, MSS recommends installing the latest available firmware for your SonicWall unit after it has undergone proper testing to ensure stability and reliability.
MSS generally conducts a 7-day testing period for new firmware releases before making them available for deployment through the Firewall Monitoring & Management (FMM) system. During this period, MSS evaluates the firmware for any issues that may affect performance or compatibility in production environments.
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Standard Release Process: New firmware becomes eligible for automatic deployment via MSS’s FMM system after successful completion of the 7-day testing phase, provided no significant issues are identified.
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Manual Update Option: If you prefer to update your firmware before the 7-day testing period concludes, MSS can accommodate manual updates upon request. Simply reach out, and our team will assist with the manual upgrade.
After the testing period is complete and barring any widespread issues, the firmware will be uploaded and made available for automated deployment through the MSS FMM console.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Notifications Work?
- Partners with Firewall Monitoring & Management (FMM) Level 3 units:
- MSS sends out new firmware notices within a week of when SonicWall’s notifications go out.
- We also recommend signing up for SonicWall’s email notifications (process below).
- Partners with Firewall Monitoring & Management (FMM) Level 1 & 2 units:
- We recommend signing up for SonicWall’s email notifications (process below).
Sign Up for New Firmware Notifications
- Log into your MySonicWall account.
- Go to Settings > My Account
- Click on Edit under Alert Settings
- Select the New Software and Firmware Upgrades (along with any others that you’d like) under the Email & In-app column and click Confirm.
Where Do I Get Copies of Firmware?
You can either download copies of firmware from your MySonicWall account’s Download Center page or ask us and we’ll be happy to provide it.
Can My Firewall Install New Firmware Automatically?
Yes! With the release of SonicOS 7.1.1, SonicWall firewalls now have the ability to automatically download and install new firmware based on a schedule that you choose. For more information, see: Firmware Auto Update Feature in Firmware 7.1.1
Do You Upgrade Firmware Without Telling Me?
NO!
As the partner & responsible party for your customer’s firewalls, you should be aware of what’s going on with it, especially when it is rebooted and/or upgraded. Think about how you update your mobile devices, windows/mac computers, home routers, etc. No manufacturer installs new firmware without prompting you to click and confirm the install. This is done so that you have a chance to review the resolved & known issues in the release notes so that you can determine if it’s something you want to do or not.
MSS will NEVER install firmware without written permission from you!
How Do I Get New Firmware Installed?
If you would like us to install the firmware, please reach out to our support team and we will be happy to schedule the upgrade(s).
Info to help you estimate billing:
- Firewall Monitoring & Management (FMM) Level 3 units:
- This is included in your FMM 3 All Inclusive Service Plan.
- Firewall Monitoring & Management (FMM) Level 1 & 2 units:
- This should not take longer than 30 minutes per firewall.