How to Update Firmware: The Essential Guide to Protect Your Router Today

Internet & Mobile Security Blog | MATE | 22 September 2025

Your router is the first line of defense against cyber threats that can reach your local network from the internet.

Cybercriminals can exploit uncorrected flaws to access our local network if we skip router firmware updates. They can steal sensitive data and control our devices remotely. But many people simply ignore these significant updates, which leaves their networks vulnerable to attacks.

Security patches in firmware updates protect against known vulnerabilities and potential cyber threats. Regular router firmware updates are vital to network security. These updates boost your device’s performance and add new features. They fix bugs, work with more products, and make everything more secure.

This blog will show you how to update your router’s firmware. You’ll learn what firmware actually is and the best ways to keep your network safe. Soon you’ll know exactly how to strengthen that vital first line of defense for your home or office network.

Understanding Router Firmware Basics

Router firmware works as your network device’s brain and controls all your internet connections. Unlike regular software on your computer, firmware lives permanently in your router’s hardware components. This control programme manages everything from simple operations to advanced networking features.

What is router firmware?

Your router’s memory chip contains firmware, which is a specialised software programme. This embedded programming tells your router how to work. Think of it as your router’s operating system that controls traffic flow, sets up security protocols, and decides who can access your network. The firmware creates a crucial link between your router’s hardware and connection management software.

How firmware affects your network

Your network experience depends heavily on your router’s firmware. It manages all network traffic and ensures your devices connect reliably to the internet. On top of that, it sets up security protocols that shield your data from cyber threats.

Outdated or faulty firmware can cause:

• Slower browsing and connection drops
• Security holes hackers might exploit
• Problems with newer devices
• Network slowdowns

Your local network’s security and efficiency depend on firmware. It decides how devices share bandwidth and encrypts data that travels through your network.

Why updates are released

Router manufacturers release firmware updates to protect and improve your device. They also patch security holes that cybercriminals might exploit. These updates fix bugs and help your router handle connections better.

Latest firmware versions add features you won’t find in older ones You might see new parental controls, better device support, or improved management tools. Some updates fix specific problems that could let attackers run malicious code or bypass security if left alone.

A router with current firmware protects your network from known threats and runs more efficiently. That’s why understanding router firmware basics helps you maintain a secure and fast network.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Update Router Firmware

Updating your router’s firmware is a simple process that works similarly for most router brands. Each router model and manufacturer might have slight differences, but these basic steps will help you update safely.

Find your router’s IP address

You need to locate your router’s IP address first. Most routers use 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Here’s how to find the correct address if these don’t work:

Windows users should type “CMD” in the search bar, open Command Prompt, and type “ipconfig”. The “Default Gateway” in the results shows your router’s IP address.

Mac users can click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences” > “Network”. Click your active connection, then “Advanced”, and find your router’s address under the “TCP/IP” tab’s “Router” entry.

Mobile device users should go to Settings > Wi-Fi/WLAN > tap their network name. The router’s address appears under “Router” or “Gateway” in network details.

Log into the router’s admin interface

Type your router’s IP address in a web browser’s address bar. You’ll need login credentials. Most routers use “admin” as the default username with “password” or the printed label password. You might need to use the small reset button if you changed these credentials but can’t remember them.

Locate the firmware update section

The firmware update section usually sits under “Advanced Settings”, “Administration”, or “Management”. Some routers offer a specific “Firmware Update” or “Router Update” section, while others place it in the “About” tab.

Check for and install updates

The update process offers two main options:

1. Automatic updates: Modern routers can handle updates on their own. Just click “Check for Updates” and follow any prompts for new firmware.
2. Manual updates: Older models need you to download the right firmware from the manufacturer’s website. You’ll then upload it through your router’s interface.

Restart your router after updating

Your router will restart by itself once the update finishes. All connected devices will briefly lose internet access. The connection should come back up automatically with the new firmware running. You can verify the update by checking the current firmware version in your router’s admin interface.

Manual vs Automatic Firmware Updates

Modern routers give you two ways to handle firmware updates: automatic and manual. Each option works best in different situations, depending on your router’s features.

How automatic updates work

The latest routers can download and install firmware updates by themselves. These devices regularly check the manufacturer’s servers to find new firmware. They download and install updates during quiet hours to avoid interrupting your work. The Google Wi-Fi routers are a great example of this approach – they update their firmware automatically through the Google Home app.

When manual updates are needed

Automatic updates make life easier, but sometimes you’ll need to handle updates yourself. You might need to update manually in these cases:

• You need to fix connection issues with certain firmware versions
• You want to try beta firmware (though we don’t usually recommend this)
• You must apply urgent security fixes when automatic systems might not work
• You’re trying to recover from a failed automatic update
• You want to control update timing to avoid disruption during important work

Using manufacturer apps to update remotely

Router makers now provide apps that make firmware management easier. These apps let you update your router’s firmware even when you’re away from your local network. For example, below you can see how the NETGEAR Nighthawk app makes updates simple:

1. Connect your mobile device to your router’s Wi-Fi
2. Open the app and enter your admin credentials
3. Tap on your router image
4. Select “Check For Updates”

This remote update feature helps a lot, especially when you have multiple routers in different locations.

Best Practices for Safe and Effective Updates

Safe router firmware updates require proper precautions. These best practices help you avoid potential risks and maximise security benefits.

Create a backup before updating

Your router’s firmware update needs a configuration backup first. This protects your personalised settings if the update resets your router to factory defaults. The web interface of most routers includes a backup option in the system maintenance or administration section. The backup files contain sensitive network information, so store them securely.

Avoid updating during peak usage hours

The best time to schedule updates is during quiet periods. Your router restarts automatically during firmware updates, and all connected devices lose internet connectivity for several minutes. Many manufacturers suggest automatic updates at night or times when network usage is low.

Verify firmware version after update

The update process requires you to log back into your router’s admin interface and confirm the new firmware version. The custom settings should be properly restored after the update process.

Set reminders to check for updates regularly

Router firmware updates need monthly checks according to experts. You could also set calendar reminders every three to six months. Critical security updates need immediate attention upon release.

Conclusion

Updating your router’s firmware is a vital step to protect your network’s security and performance. We’ve seen in this piece how firmware acts as your router’s brain and controls everything from simple operations to complex security protocols. Your network becomes vulnerable to cyber threats with outdated firmware. Regular updates provide security patches and make your router perform better.

You can update your firmware automatically or manually – both methods are straightforward. Modern routers come with easy-to-use interfaces that make this maintenance task simple. On top of that, manufacturer apps let you update multiple networks remotely.

Note that you should back up your settings before any update. The best time to run updates is during low-traffic periods. Always check if the new firmware version installed correctly. Make firmware updates part of your regular digital maintenance – maybe even monthly or quarterly. Don’t wait for problems to surface.

Your router protects your personal data from potential threats. These small maintenance steps bring major security benefits. Regular firmware updates keep your connected devices safe. Your network runs smoothly when you stay proactive against cybersecurity risks. The time you spend on these updates pays off with better protection and improved performance across your network.