# Software update FAQ

See also [](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/encyclopedia/software/bactobox-r-software-changelog "mention") and  [update-bactobox-r-software](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/getting-started/best-practices/update-bactobox-r-software "mention").

### Which hardware versions does the software update support?

[**Hardware v7.5**](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/encyclopedia/item-register/bactobox-r/bactobox-r-hardware-changelog) **and later.**

If you have an earlier hardware version, you must upgrade your hardware first. [Contact us](https://sbtinstruments.com/contact) for more information.

If you attempt to update the software on incompatible hardware, the software update process stops immediately without damage to BactoBox® or your data.

### Does the software update delete my data?

**No.** The software update keeps all your BactoBox® data (measurements, gating, etc.) as it is.

### Does the software update change my existing data?

**No.** The software update retains all your existing BactoBox® data (measurements, gating, etc.) exactly as it is.

For example, the cell/mL concentration of your measurements remains unchanged. Similarly, any error messages retain their original wording.

The software update *may* change, e.g., the cell/mL rounding or the wording of the error messages for the *Measure* program going forward. However, all historic data is unchanged.

### Can I downgrade the software?

**No.** We do not support software downgrades.

Instead, use [backup & restore](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/encyclopedia/software/access/pages/backup-and-restore) to roll back. This requires a backup from *before* you update.

The internal data format changes together with the software. The update process migrates the old format into the latest format. This makes software updates a one-way street.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Attempted downgrades may render your BactoBox® unusable and your data lost.
{% endhint %}