from my POV the recommendation for firmware level depends on a lot of factors , such as the feature used on the current level {like HyperSwap elimenated after specific version maybe 8.7.0.1 I think https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/706911 } and what is new and what the fixes includes in the new version. Usually, enterprises update to latest -1 LTS stable version which means the third number of firmware level need to be 0 like 8.7.0.x or 9.1.0.x .
Also, I believe the compatibility is subject to the specific hardware model, software version, and the configuration (e.g., drive interface like SAS or NVMe, and protocol) not to drives firmware level.
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Hashem Al-Qaisi
Senior Systems Engineer
Jordan Business Systems
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Original Message:
Sent: Tue November 18, 2025 05:58 AM
From: Robert Berendt
Subject: Recommended upgrade for FS7300?
Thank you.
- How long before a firmware is "recommended". 70 days after availability? After bugs are found in it and the latest release comes out then the previous buggy one is "recommended"?
- If the new FS7300 comes with level 4 drives does that cause any compatibility issues exchanging data between the two? I believe there are some features only available with level 4 drives.
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Robert Berendt IBMChampion
Business Systems Analyst, Lead
Dekko
Fort Wayne
Original Message:
Sent: Tue November 18, 2025 01:40 AM
From: Hashem Al-Qaisi
Subject: Recommended upgrade for FS7300?
Dear Robert,
Hope you are doing well,
It's your decision to decide which level you want to go to, both levels 8.7.0.8 and 9.1.0.2 you can update/upgrade to, concurrently and Long-Term Supported (LTS). Also, both level remediate the Vulnerability affected your system.
However, the latest firmware level for FS7300 is 9.1.0.2 as you can find here https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/5692850#_Latest_IBM_Storage_Virtualize_Code
Furthermore, you can find drives firmware available levels at https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/873170 , you need to insert you drive Model Number to see the available firmware levels. but I believe that you have the latest firmware installed which is 3_1_15 .
Please note that you have to read the firmware ReadMe file comes with installation packages on IBM ESS to make sure that the update/upgrade process is non-disruptive.
Finally, you can find the Lifecycle and support matrix for all IBM storages at https://www.ibm.com/docs/en/stg-vss-vds?topic=lifecycle-support-matrix .
Please feel free if you have any other questions or concerns.
Best Regards.
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Hashem Al-Qaisi
Senior Systems Engineer
Jordan Business Systems
Original Message:
Sent: Mon November 17, 2025 10:49 AM
From: Robert Berendt
Subject: Recommended upgrade for FS7300?
Our current FS7300 is at 8.7.0.6.
IBM's cautious side recommends 8.7.0.6 says that's the recommended level
IBM Storage Virtualize Family of Products Upgrade Planning
However critical CVE's suggest 8.7.0.8. Staying current with CVE's is a thing here.
Security Bulletin: Vulnerability in strongswan affects IBM SAN Volume Controller, IBM Spectrum Virtualize and IBM FlashSystem products
Or should I jump to 9.1.0.2?
Concurrent Compatibility and Code Cross Reference for IBM Storage Virtualize
Drive firmware is at 3_1_15. Where do I see what levels are available?
Where can I find (exactly) available lifecycle info on 8.7.0.6? I'm not finding exact information at Search results - Product lifecycle - IBM Support
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Robert Berendt IBMChampion
Business Systems Analyst, Lead
Dekko
Fort Wayne
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