Thu. Mar 27th, 2025

Firmware updates play an important role when it comes to getting the most out of your devices. No matter whether you own a router or extender, there is a need to update the firmware of your device, whenever there is availability. In this guide, we are going to make you familiar with the process of doing a Netgear router firmware update.

No matter which model of Netgear router you have, the process given below will bring you success when it comes to updating the firmware of your WiFi router.

Here’s How to Update Netgear Router Firmware

There are two different methods one can use for updating the firmware of a router. Either manual method can be used for the process or you can use the Nighthawk app for making things happen. Let’s check both methods one by one.

Update Netgear Router Firmware Manually

Make sure your router is connected to the access point or modem.

  • Using any of your devices, get access to the official site of Netgear.
  • Once there, type the model number of the router into the search field.
  • You can now check if any firmware update is available for your router.
  • If you find any new version, get it downloaded on the device by clicking Downloads.
  • Next, head towards an updated web browser on your device and type the default IP address into the address field.
  • The routerlogin page will come into view the minute you press the Enter key.
  • You then be requested to fill in the username and password of your router.

Note: Users who have made changes to the login details of their routers after getting them configured are advised to make use of the changed admin login details. However, the rest can stick with the default details.

  • Under the Administration tab, you will find the option naming Firmware Update.
  • Reaching here, click Browse, and select the file you downloaded earlier from the official site of Netgear.
  • In some time, the latest firmware will get downloaded on your router.

It is to say that the process may take some time! So, you are advised to be patient as well as not interrupt the process.

As we said earlier, the manual method is not the only way you can use to update the firmware on your Netgear router. The Nighthawk app can also serve you in this process.

Here’s How to Update Netgear Router Firmware via App

This method can be implemented by those who have not succeeded in updating the firmware of their routers manually via 192.168.1.1.

  • For getting started, you need to first download the Nighthawk app on your device.
  • Bear in mind to download and install only an updated version of the app.
  • Launch the app and get agreed to its terms and conditions for using it.
  • You will then be prompted to enter your username and password.
  • Done with adding details? Proceed further by tapping Sign In.
  • The app interface of your Netgear router displays.
  • Navigate to Settings and check for updates.
  • If you can see the availability of any new firmware for your router, get it updated by tapping Update.
  • Completion of the process will initiate the rebooting of your router. So, worry not!

This is all about how users can update the firmware of their WiFi routers using various methods. We hope you will get success with the overall process.

At times, users face issues while executing the firmware update process and got stuck. If you are experiencing the same, walk through the hacks listed in the next section.

Checkpoint Before Doing Netgear Router Firmware Update

  • Ensure that your router is configured properly and is having access to super-fast internet.
  • Check whether the outlet to which your router is plugged in is offering sufficient power.
  • While using the manual method, keep in mind to use only an updated version of the internet browser.
  • Download the firmware file that matches the model number of your router.
  • Don’t run any background activities while upgrading the firmware on your Netgear router.
  • Keep your router at a distance from things that could create WiFi interference like Bluetooth speakers, baby monitors, etc.
  • Get the login details handy before commencing the process.

Once done with checking all these points, check if you can update the firmware of your router. We hope you will!