Safe to upgrade from v2.4.5 to v21.02.x ?

[sgsignage]

Hello,

I have a Netgate SG-1100 for our small business. I recently upgraded the pfSense software on it from 2.4.4 to 2.4.5 because the list of available software packages was blank. Now, I have what looks to be the full list.

Anyway, on the 'Dashboard' of the web interface, it says that 'The system is on the latest version'. However, under System --> Update --> System Update, it says that the 'branch' is 'Previous stable version (2.4.5 DEPRECATED)'. If I click on the 'Branch' drop-down menu, there is a 'Latest stable version (21.02.x)' option. Yet, the status 3 rows below that says 'Up to date'. This is kind of confusing - I don't know what to believe.

I want to be on the latest version, but it seems like quite the jump from v2.4.5 to v21.02, so am not sure if I should attempt it. The whole reason this came is because I want to install snort, and figured I should do any OS upgrades before I install snort.

Any suggestions? Stay where I am (v2.4.5) and install snort, or should I try the giant upgrade (while crossing my fingers that it doesn't break) and install snort afterward?

Thank you!

[stephenw10]

2.4.5 to 21.02 is actually just one version. That was where we changed the numbering scheme for pfSense Plus.
However that isn't the latest version, it's 22.01. If you change the update branch to 'latest version' you should see it offer you 22.01 after it's updated the upgrade pkg itself.

Yes, you should upgrade before installing Snort. Also be aware Snort is a hungry beast. You need to be careful when you enable running it on the 1100.

Steve

[sgsignage]

@stephenw10 thanks so much! I upgraded from 2.4.5 to 21.05.2 successfully, then upgraded to 22.01 successfully.
Next week I'll try out the Snort package, but will keep an eye on the CPU/memory usage after doing so. If it seems to push it too much I'll remove it. Wish I would've purchased a 2100 now. Regardless, thank you for your help and your heads up on the Snort package.

Jamie