Our software/firmware release model helps you make the right choice when it comes to deciding which software or firmware version to load onto your appliance. For information on the different releases, read below; if you need help selecting the release that’s right for you, contact your local SonicWall partner or sales representative.
General Release: General Release software is a mature, widely deployed and proven release, suitable for typical use cases and is the software of choice for reliability. General Releases are used for production environments.
Feature Release: Feature Release software is a new release that introduces major new features in the product. A Feature Release has gone through multiple & thorough engineering, quality, alpha, and beta test cycles and is being launched for general availability. A Feature Release is a candidate to move to General Release after the maturity criteria is met. Please refer to the release notes for a list of major features.
Maintenance Release: Maintenance Release software includes bug fixes and enhancements made to a previous release. A Maintenance Release has gone through engineering & quality test cycles and is launched for general availability. Maintenance Release is a candidate to move to General Release after the maturity criteria is met. Please refer to the release notes for full details.
Initial Release: Initial release software is the first release of a new product. It is recommended to upgrade to General Release upon availability.
Hotfix Release: Hotfix releases contain the latest fixes and patches, and are provided to customers who are looking to address specific issues. Eventually Hotfix releases are integrated into the Maintenance/General release.
Please note: The above release definitions reflect our current release types. References to legacy or retired release types, including “Early Release,” may continue to exist throughout the website and technical documentation. Before performing any software or firmware upgrades, it is recommended that you consult the relevant Release Notes as they may include exception notices or warnings.