Release Notes

Firmware Release Guidelines
Dell EMC Support: Product Management
2 Firmware Release Guidelines
Each SC Series array runs a core operating system in firmware that provides all the SC Series features and
functionality. Firmware will be updated from time to time as new features are added, for general maintenance
and other improvements. The firmware version is defined using a version number. The firmware version
number takes the following form: “X.Y.Z.”
Dell EMC is committed to regular firmware releases with a focus on providing the best possible enterprise
storage experience for our customers. For issues that may impact data availability or integrity, we may deliver
an unscheduled release and notify any customers that would benefit from the release. To help maximize the
performance and integrity of their systems, customers should always ensure that they are using a supported
release stream (as detailed below), and plan to update their systems to the most current recommended
release on a maintenance schedule that considers the needs of their business and the need to keep their
critical IT equipment updated.
Note: The timelines listed below for the firmware releases are approximations and are intended for guidance
only. Dell EMC reserves the right to make changes without notice to the timelines mentioned herein.
2.1 Definition of terms
Definition of releases
Release type
Definition
Major release
A major release introduces new features, functionality, architectural
improvements and/or cross-portfolio major changes. A major
release is identified by a change to the first digit of the firmware
version number (X.Y.Z.)
Minor release
A minor release introduces new features and functionality and/or
new hardware enablement. A minor release is identified by a
change to the second digit of the firmware version number (X.Y.Z).
Minor releases are targeted for release approximately every 6-12
months.
Maintenance release
A maintenance release carries bug fixes for enhanced stability and
performance of the Storage Center platform. A maintenance
release is identified by a change to the third digit of the firmware
version number (X.Y.Z).
Maintenance releases are targeted for release approximately every
3-6 months.
Patch release/Hot fix
A patch release or hot fix, many times referred to as a build
release, addresses issues experienced in the environment of a
specific customer(s), and is provided by Dell Tech Support only to
the affected customer(s).
Super package release
A super package release is for disk firmware updates and is
provided by Dell Tech Support only to the affected customer(s).