Which best practices should be implemented before updating the firmware on SonicWall devices?

Creating a backup and downloading a settings file locally before updating the firmware on SonicWall devices is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, having a backup ensures that you can restore the device to its previous configuration if the update leads to unexpected issues or if there is a failure during the update process. This step minimizes the risk of data loss or downtime, which can be critical for network stability and security.

Downloading a settings file locally provides an additional layer of security, as it allows administrators to maintain an offline copy of the configuration that can be quickly restored if necessary. This practice is particularly important because firmware updates can sometimes reset settings or lead to configuration changes that may not be immediately apparent.

This proactive approach contributes significantly to operational resilience, allowing administrators to manage updates confidently while ensuring that recovery options are readily available.