Updates & release channels

FreeSense updates are package-based, not image-based. You do not reinstall to update — the system upgrades in place from the official signed repository.

How updates work

The OS itself is a set of core packages (base system, kernel, and supporting pieces). Updating runs pkg upgrade against pkg.freesense.org from the GUI:

System → Update

The same mechanism keeps add-on packages current. Everything is delivered through one unified, cryptographically signed package path.

Signed packages

FreeSense’s official repository is signed with the project’s key, and the matching public key ships in the OS. Packages that fail signature verification are rejected.

Release channels

There are two channels:

Channel	For	Tracks
Stable	Production	Tested release builds
Development	Testing / early access	Latest FreeBSD & features

Choose the channel that fits the machine. Production firewalls should stay on Stable; Development is for trying new things and helping test.

Switching channels

Select the channel on the System → Update → Update Settings page, then check for updates. The box will repoint at the chosen channel’s repository and offer the packages available there.

ISOs vs updates

Installer images (ISOs) are for fresh installs only. Once installed, stay current with package updates rather than re-imaging. Major FreeBSD version jumps may occasionally call for a reinstall — this is noted in release announcements when it applies.