Starting in ReadyNAS OS 6.9, the ReadyNAS Admin Page will allow you to select between three different update channels: Long-Term Support, Stable, and Beta.
Stable
Stable provides the same update experience as it always has. You will be alerted about all major and minor releases for ReadyNAS OS 6. Stable allows you to get the latest features and benefits as quickly as they are released. NETGEAR typically puts out 3-4 major releases a year for ReadyNAS OS 6.
Beta
Using beta releases is at your own risk. The Beta channel allows you to try bleeding edge features before they are released to the stable channel. Features and functions you see during beta may not be fully tested and may also not be released into production software. Beta release support is managed by the NETGEAR Community. NETGEAR Support does not support Beta releases.
Long-Term Support (LTS)
Long-Term Support channel will allow you to stay on specific major releases (starting with OS 6.9). LTS channel will provide you with minor release updates for bug fixes and security updates, but no added features. LTS builds will still require you, in most cases, to restart the unit to apply an upgrade. Major LTS releases are expected to happen at most once per year, rather than 3-4 times a year like Stable channel. There may still be several minor releases during this time, however. When NETGEAR launches a new major LTS release, you will be notified.