What Meshtastic firmware version should I run?

Always Run Stable Releases on Infrastructure

Meshtastic releases three types of firmware builds:

Version Compatibility

Meshtastic maintains backward compatibility within a major version (2.x). All 2.x nodes can communicate with each other, though newer firmware may use packet formats that older firmware ignores. Avoid running 1.x firmware anywhere on an active 2.x network - it is not compatible.

The PKI Direct Messaging feature introduced in 2.3 requires both nodes to run 2.3+ for encrypted DMs. Mixed networks (some 2.2, some 2.3) still work for channel messages; only DMs between 2.3+ nodes get PKI encryption.

Checking Your Current Version

In the Meshtastic app: Settings → About, or check the device info screen. Via CLI:

meshtastic --info | grep Firmware

Upgrading a Community Network

For coordinated community upgrades across multiple repeaters:

1. Announce the planned update in your community communication channel
2. Update one non-critical repeater first and test for 48-72 hours
3. If no issues, update remaining repeaters in off-peak hours (late night)
4. Document firmware versions for each node in your network inventory