Patches and upgrades are two different types of updates that will periodically apply to your software.  Patches refer to bug fixes or small UI changes that keep your current software running its best and upgrades refer to major feature updates. Patches and upgrades and how they are applied will vary based whether you are on the Fast Track or LTS version of the software.  Most notably, LTS upgrades can't be self-applied and are generally only done once per year.  Patches are released as needed.  FT upgrades come out every few weeks and often also include some bug fixes.  Patches to FT software will be less frequent as you will generally want to upgrade to the latest version to ensure you have the latest fixes and features.

Read more about how upgrades and patches work in the frequently asked questions below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LTS and Fast Track Software?

LTS (Long Term Support) provides you with the latest supported version of our software for the year. Throughout the year, you then receive bug fixes in the form of patches. Fast Track is similar, but bug fixes will mostly come when you upgrade to the latest version as opposed to having to install patches. With the bug fixes, any new features/product upgrades are also provided as they are developed (in real time) without needing to wait for the new year to access these features. 

How can I tell if I am on Fast Track or LTS?

You can confirm whether you are on LTS or Fast Track in Manager Console by looking at the version number. If the version is vXX.1.XX.X.XXXX, any “.1” indicates you are on the LTS version, any value above “.1” (e.g.,vXX.2.XX.X.XXXX) indicates a Fast Track version. The image below shows an LTS version.

I am on LTS and do not see a benefit to upgrading to Fast Track right now. When will I need to upgrade to the new LTS?

A new LTS version is released roughly at the beginning of every year. In 2020, we released it early February and in 2021 we released it in January. The 2024 version is currently available. You will likely want to upgrade to the latest LTS version so you can get our new features, and be on the most up-to-date version of our software.

What are patches?

Patches contain primarily important bug fixes, but also include UI changes, and other benefits to your software. 

Do I need patches?

We highly recommend you install any patches to ensure you don't run into any issues reported by other customers and so your system is working at its best. Information will appear on your screen before installation, giving you a summary of changes. If you want additional information or have any questions regarding what you see on the notes, please feel free to contact our Support team.

How do I make sure my server always has the latest patches?

Making sure patches are applied on your server is extremely important. In Daily Processing Configuration, you can select Enable Automatic Update Apply On Server, which will ensure patches are applied to the server if someone applies them at another station.

How are patches applied?

You will receive a yellow notification bar at the bottom of Manager Console upon login if there are any patches or updates available.  A user with the security right to do so, will be able to review the changes and apply them.

What is an upgrade?

An upgrade is a more significant software update that generally includes new features, but may also include some bug fixes.  Because these are more significant, they can only be applied during the week and not on Friday-Sunday.

How are upgrades applied?

Fast Track

You will receive a yellow notification bar similar to the patch notification in Manager Console and a person with the security right to do so can choose to apply the upgrade.  If it is during a time (Friday-Sunday) that is restricted for upgrades, you will see a notification indicating this.

LTS

When a new LTS version is available, you will need to contact Support to upgrade to the latest version.  This can be done Monday-Thursday.

How do I know if an update is a patch I can do any time or if it is an upgrade and I need to wait to do it during the week?

Fast Track

The notification bar will explain what kind of update is available and will include additional information when clicked.  If the update is an upgrade that is restricted to weekdays, a notification will inform you if you try to apply it. You can safely make any other updates when convenient and when it won't disrupt operations.

LTS

You will not receive the option to self-upgrade.  Any notifications will be patches and updates that are safe to apply when convenient to your operation.

What else do I need to do to make sure my system works and is up to date?

Periodically, some operating systems and versions of SQL Server reach their end of life.  This means either Windows, CenterEdge, or both will no longer support these versions. Keep your eye out for updates from us and  make sure your site meets the latest minimum requirements.