Is it time to Update Your Router's Software?


When was the last time you updated the software in your router? I just updated my router software. It was a 2-step process, one upgrade for my router and a 2nd upgrade for my extender. Each upgrade took about 10 minutes.

Instructions on how to update routers vary by brand, but for most models you need to log in to your router through a browser using the device’s IP address.  For specific instructions, please see your router's user guide. OR, Google search your router for software updates.  I logged into my router, using Safari, entered the required ID and password, found the upgrade software tab and did the updates, one update for each device.

In most cases, the software update is for security updates, bug fixes and improvements for various brands of equipment.  Most routers allow for firmware update within the web interface.  Updating the firmware (a process often called "flashing the firmware") can help a router work better and sometimes even repair an annoying bug or add support for faster internet speed. This is especially true when a router reset does not help.

My router is the LUXUL EPIC 3 AC3100 Wireless Router and LUXUL XAP-1510 AC1900 Access Point.




hgeifman
@eisenb11, You make some excellent points and I agree.  My router setup is very simple and so I prefer to keep up with the various security fixed, bug fixes, etc.   

On the other hand, your setup is much more complicated and I agree you should only perform the upgrade if it fixes something you need fixed.  

Thanks again for clarifying this.  
The problem with firmware updates is that sometimes they fix one thing and break another. So if you’re happy with how everything is working and there isn’t a specific bug fix that you need many people would rather not roll the dice on it.

Also, level of ease depends on a number of factors. My network’s router is a modified Watchguard Firebox running pfsense, with a Dell X1052 managed switch, a Cisco wireless LAN controller controlling distributed access points, and 3 small managed switches at various points throughout the house. Firmware updates are only done if there is a major fix that I want to roll in because the system is complex enough that I have to pay attention to the firmware release notes errata to judge if the risk of the upgrade is worth the gain.