Starting May 2024, CYFOX includes a new feature allowing users to take complete control over system updates. This empowerment enables users to make informed decisions about if and when to update their systems, providing them with full autonomy over system version updates.
There are two main parts user can update and control: The Agent (the EDR software installed on each computer) and the Server (which handles the dashboard, reports features, and more).
Depending on how users set up CYFOX, the options for version control can vary:
Cloud Deployment | Local/ Remote Server Deployment |
In this setup (Companies running directly on CYFOX Cloud) the admin user can manage updates for the Agent, as server updates are automatically handled and thus not a concern. | In this setup (Companies with their servers - local or remote) the admin user can manage both the XDR Server updates and the Agent (EDR) softwares updates. |
This mechanism ensures that regardless of the deployment model—cloud-based or on-premises — companies have the flexibility to manage system updates in a way that aligns with their operational preferences.
Automatic Updates
Users have the option to enable automatic software updates, allowing the system to update itself at a designated time defined by the user. Initially, the system assigns a default time for these updates, but users can customize this timing to better suit their operational needs.
Activating Automatic Updates
For Cloud Based Operations: Navigate to the "Software Updates" section found in the main menu. For Virtual/Local Server Operations: Go to "System Settings" > "Software Updates."
Set the Automatic Updates to ON.
Upon activating Automatic Updates:
All agents are updated automatically. For setups with a dedicated server, the server itself will be updated to the latest version as well.
Configuring the Update Schedule
The system sets a default time for when updates will occur; Although the system suggests a default schedule for updates, users can adjust this to prevent any work disruptions.
Tip: Scheduling updates allows the company to perform them during off-peak hours, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. For example, setting updates for weekends or after working hours can significantly reduce their impact on the company's activities.
The default time for automatic updates is displayed on the right side (refer to the image above). This time is automatically set by the system once auto-updates are enabled.
To modify the update schedule:
Click on the pencil icon
A window for date range settings will appear. Select the desired date and time, then click 'Apply'.
The update time will be adjusted accordingly.
Manual Updates
If the user selects the manual updates option, updates will not occur unless initiated by the user.
Activating Manual Updates
Navigate to "Software Updates" by following the same steps previously mentioned.
If "Software Updates" is enabled, switch it to Off using the toggle button.
With manual updates enabled, you can apply updates immediately as you choose. To execute a manual update:
Navigate to the System Settings screen, where you'll see the available versions for your organization listed on the right side.
Identify the component you wish to update (Agent and/or Server) and select "Update Now" to start the update process immediately.
Please note, if your system is already updated to the latest version, you will see a message confirming that your system is up to date.
Tip: Software updates can take up to an hour to finish once initiated. It's advisable to plan the update timing accordingly, allowing you to verify its successful completion.
"Selective" Updates
Another feature available with manual updates is the ability to selectively upgrade specific Agents to the latest version. This flexibility allows organizations to implement version updates incrementally, facilitating small-scale updates.
Please note, this selective update option is only available for Agents, as the server operates as a single unit.
To update specific Agents:
Navigate to the "Inventory" page.
Find the device (hostname) you want to update.
Click on the Action (Pencil Icon) located on the right side of that row.
Select the "Update to latest version" option.
You will receive a notification at the top of the screen confirming that the version update process has started.
Tip: You have the option to update multiple endpoints simultaneously—for example, if you wish to update a specific group—by selecting their rows using the circles on the left side. After selection, click on "Update" next to the Managed Devices Table Title, then choose "Update to latest version."
Notifications
When opting for manual updates, the system will alert users whenever a new version becomes available, enabling them to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the update.
This notification will appear as a banner at the top of the screen, displaying the version number and providing a direct link to the Software Updates page ("Learn more")
It's important to note that notifications for major releases are also sent out via email by the CYFOX support team. Additionally, updates on all releases are continuously posted to the release notes pages.
Customers with questions about releases can contact support at [email protected] for assistance.