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Cisco Intrusion Prevention System CLI Sensor Configuration Guide for IPS 7.1
OL-19892-01
Chapter 21 Obtaining Software
IPS Software Versioning
IPS Software Versioning
When you download IPS software images from Cisco.com, you should understand the versioning
scheme so that you know which files are base files, which are cumulative, and which are incremental.
Major Update
A major update contains new functionality or an architectural change in the product. For example, the
Cisco IPS 7.1 base version includes everything (except deprecated features) since the previous major
release (the minor update features, service pack fixes, and signature updates) plus any new changes.
Major update 7.1(1) requires 5.1(6) and later. With each major update there are corresponding system
and recovery packages.
Note The 7.1(1) major update is used to upgrade 5.1(6) and later sensors to 7.1(1) If you are reinstalling 7.1(1)
on a sensor that already has 7.1(1) installed, use the system image or recovery procedures rather than the
major update.
Minor Update
A minor update is incremental to the major version. Minor updates are also base versions for service
packs. The first minor update for 7.1 is 7.2. Minor updates are released for minor enhancements to the
product. Minor updates contain all previous minor features (except deprecated features), service pack
fixes, signature updates since the last major version, and the new minor features being released. You can
install the minor updates on the previous major or minor version (and often even on earlier versions).
The minimum supported version needed to upgrade to the newest minor version is listed in the Readme
that accompanies the minor update. With each minor update there are corresponding system and
recovery packages.
Service Pack
A service packs is cumulative following a base version release (minor or major). Service packs are
released in a train release format with several new features per train. Service packs contain all service
pack fixes since the last base version (minor or major) and the new features and defect fixes being
released. Service packs require the minor version. The minimum supported version needed to upgrade
to the newest service pack is listed in the Readme that accompanies the service pack. Service packs also
include the latest engine update. For example, if service pack 7.1(3) is released, and E4 is the latest
engine level, the service pack is released as 7.1(3)E4.
Patch Release
A patch release is used to address defects that are identified in the upgrade binaries after a software
release. Rather than waiting until the next major or minor update, or service pack to address these
defects, a patch can be posted. Patches include all prior patch releases within the associated service pack
level. The patches roll into the next official major or minor update, or service pack.
Before you can install a patch release, the most recent major or minor update, or service pack must be
installed. For example, patch release 7.1(1p1) requires 7.1(1).
Note Upgrading to a newer patch does not require you to uninstall the old patch. For example, you can upgrade
from patch 7.1(1p1) to 7.1(1p2) without first uninstalling 7.1(1p1).