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How to update the software on your router

Edited 1 week ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

RouterSoftware UpdateNetworkingDevice ManagementPerformanceSecurityInternetWirelessConfigurationUser Guide

How to update the software on your router

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Introduction

Updating the software on your router, known as firmware, is an essential task that helps ensure that the router operates efficiently and securely. Firmware updates can provide improvements in performance, new features, and important security patches. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to update your router's software in a detailed and understandable way. Whether you're tech-savvy or a novice, these instructions are intended to make the process simple and manageable.

What is router firmware?

Router firmware is a type of software that is permanently programmed into the router's read-only memory. It operates the router, enabling it to connect to the internet, manage data traffic, and provide functionality such as firewall protection and Wi-Fi. Since firmware is integral to the router's functionality, it is important to keep it updated with the latest version.

Why should you update your router's firmware?

Updating the firmware can solve various problems, such as:

Preparation

Before starting the update process, it is necessary to gather a few essential items:

Steps to update router firmware

Step 1: Find the router's IP address

First, you need to access the router's settings through its web interface. To do this, you'll need the router's IP address. You can find it here:

Windows

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to open Command Prompt.
3. Type ipconfig and press Enter.
4. Look for the Default Gateway under your network connection. This is the router's IP address, typically something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

Mac

1. Click the Apple icon and select System Preferences.
2. Go to Network.
3. Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
4. Click on Advanced, then go to the TCP/IP tab.
5. Look for the Router field. This is your router's IP address.

Note down this IP address for the next step.

Step 2: Log into the router's web interface

Now, you need to log in to the router's web interface. Follow these instructions:

1. Open a web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge).
2. In the address bar, type the router's IP address you found earlier, and press Enter.
3. You will be prompted to enter a username and password. If you haven't changed these, they are likely the default settings. Common defaults are:
    - Username: admin, Password: admin
    - Username: admin, Password: password
4. If you have changed the credentials and forgotten them, you may need to reset your router to factory settings to regain access.

Step 3: Locate the firmware update section

After logging into the web interface:

1. Look for a section labeled Firmware, Firmware Update, Router Update, or Advanced Settings.
2. This section may be located under sub-menus like Administration, Management, System Tools, or similar, depending on the router's brand and model.

Step 4: Check for firmware update

There are generally two ways to update firmware:

  1. Automatic updates: Some routers can check for and download updates automatically. If this option is available, select it and follow the on-screen instructions.
  2. Manual update: For manual update, you need to download the firmware file from the manufacturer's website.

For manual update:

1. Visit the router manufacturer's official website.
2. Go to the Support or Downloads section.
3. Enter your router's model number to find the latest firmware.
4. Download the appropriate firmware file to your computer.

Step 5: Update the firmware

After downloading the firmware file:

1. Go back to the router's web interface and navigate to the Firmware Update section.
2. Select the option to upload or choose a file.
3. Browse and select the downloaded firmware file from your computer.
4. Start the update process. This may take several minutes. Do not turn off the router during the update.
5. Once the update is complete, the router will restart automatically.

Step 6: Verify updates

After the router restarts:

1. Log back into the router's web interface.
2. Go to the Firmware section and check whether the new firmware version is installed.
3. Reconfigure any settings that may have changed during the update.

Step 7: Reset the router (if necessary)

If you experience any problems after the update, you may need to perform a factory reset:

1. Locate the reset button, usually a small pinhole on the back of the router.
2. Press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds using a paperclip or similar object.
3. The router will restart and return to factory settings.
4. You will need to reconfigure your network settings after the reset.

Tips and best practices

  1. Backup settings: Before updating, be sure to back up your existing settings. This will make it easier to restore the configuration if something goes wrong.
  2. Stable connection: Use an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection during the update process.
  3. Be patient: The update process may take time. Avoid interrupting it to avoid potential problems.

Conclusion

Updating your router's firmware is an important task that ensures better performance, improved security, and access to new features. By following the steps mentioned above, you can efficiently update your router's software regardless of your technical expertise. It's an investment of your time that can greatly benefit your network's functionality and security in the long run.

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