A WiFi router is like a gateway protecting your devices like Computers, Smartphones, IoT devices etc… from the hackers.
But, it won’t be able to detect newer threats if you don’t update the firmware to the latest version.
Regularly updating the firmware allows your router to function at its optimal performance by providing you with strong wireless signals besides enhancing your security.
How to Update Router Firmware Easily?
It is very easy to update your router’s firmware but you should follow the steps carefully to not mess with the other settings of your router. The process is almost similar with all the Popular WiFi router brands in India like Netgear, D-Link, TP-Link, Asus, Tenda, iBall etc…
Before proceeding with the firmware update, first you’ll need to know your router’s IP address.
It is usually located on your router’s manual/box along with the login credentials.
Here, you can see the IPv4 DNS server and IPv4 address. Just keep a note of them.
Now, let us proceed with the router firmware update procedure.
Make sure that you connect your router with your PC/laptop using the Ethernet cable. Though it is not compulsory, you’ll get stable connection while updating the firmware.
1. Open Router Settings
First, open your web browser (any) and type the IP address of your router in the address bar.
2. Enter Login Credentials
You’ll be asked to enter the username and password. You can find it on your user manual or from the official website.
3. Go to Firmware Update Section
Once you logged in, navigate to Firmware or Router Upgrade option. It usually appears under the Administration, Maintenance or Utilities section, depending on your brand.
4. Check for any Latest Updates
You’ll then find the current firmware version of your router along with its release date and if there are any latest updates available.
5. Download the Firmware to PC
If you find any update, just click on the link and you’ll be redirected to your router’s official website to download the firmware.
6. Extract the Zip File
Once downloaded, extract/unzip the update file (if necessary).
7. Upload the Image File
Now, go to the router settings page and click ‘Update‘ option. You can either drag and drop the downloaded firmware file or click ‘Browse‘ or ‘Choose File‘ buttons.
8. Start the Update Process
Once selected, the firmware upgrading process starts, which usually takes a few minutes.
9. Reboot Your Rooter
Do not interrupt the process and once done, you’ll need to restart your router in order for the latest firmware to be installed properly.
That’s all friends! Though the steps are many, the process of updating the router’s firmware is pretty easy.
In case if the process failed in middle due to some reason, you can simply click the reset option by navigating to ‘Factory Defaults‘ section and choosing the ‘Restore‘ button.
Alternatively, you can do a hard reset of your router manually by holding the ‘Reset‘ button on the back of the router for 10+ seconds.
Default Router IP Address List (All Brands)
| WiFi Router Brand | Default IP Address |
|---|---|
| Asus | 192.168.1.1 192.168.2.1 10.10.1.1 10.0.0.1 |
| Dell | 192.168.1.1 |
| D-Link | 192.168.1.1 192.168.0.1 192.168.0.10 192.168.0.101 192.168.0.30 192.168.0.50 192.168.1.254 192.168.15.1 192.168.254.254 10.0.0.1 10.0.0.2 10.1.1.1 10.90.90.90 |
| Gigabyte | 192.168.1.254 |
| 192.168.86.1 192.168.0.1 | |
| iBall | 192.168.1.1 |
| Linksys | 192.168.1.1 192.168.0.1 192.168.1.10 192.168.1.210 192.168.1.254 192.168.1.99 192.168.15.1 192.168.16.1 192.168.2.1 |
| Netgear | 192.168.0.1 192.168.0.227 |
| Tenda | 192.168.1.1 192.168.0.1 |
| TP-Link | 192.168.1.1 192.168.0.1 192.168.0.254 |
| ZTE | 192.168.1.1 192.168.0.1 192.168.100.100 192.168.1.254 192.168.2.1 192.168.2.254 |
Router Firmware Update FAQs
What is router firmware?
A firmware is a software that is embedded inside your router and helps it function at optimal performance. It also provides the security, network protocols and administrative access.
Will updating router firmware increase speed?
Yes, the latest firmware updates usually help improve the signal strengh and performance of your router, which also results in faster Internet.
How do I update my router firmware without Internet?
To update your router firmware without connecting to the Internet, you’ll need to have the update file handy. You can get it from your friend’s computer using his Internet.
How often should you update your router?
You’ll need to update your router either when there is a latest firmware version available or once every 3 to 4 years, whichever is earlier.
How long is a router firmware update?
It usually takes between 2 to 10 minutes, depending on your Internet speed.
How do I check my router firmware?
You can visit your router’s control panel by typing its IP address (can be found on the manual) and navigate to Firmware or Router Upgrade option. You can find your firmware version on that page.
How do I update firmware without a computer?
You can access your router settings on any electronic appliance like the Smartphone or Tablet using the Official router app (if any) and do the update.
Final Word:
It is a good habit to update your router with the latest firmware version as it will protect your devices from hackers in addition to providing you with strong signal strength and improved Internet speeds.