Are you asking how do I update my Motorola router firmware? Well, we have the answers for you!
Now, there are a lot of Motorola router models. The good news is that they’re all built on a similar platform, so the steps for one particular model are the same for others.
Luckily for you, Motorola has also provided you with different ways to update their routers, which is a plus so you can choose which path to take.
To update your Motorola router firmware, you’ll need to log in to the admin dashboard. Open your web browser and type in the admin username and password to gain access. You’ll need to know your router’s firmware version. If it needs updating, you can do it in the automated or the manual way.
Before we dive into the different methods to update your router, let’s look at the advantages that installing the latest firmware can offer you and your network.
Why Update Firmware on Motorola Modem
Updating your router or modem’s firmware is all about keeping their devices competitive and up to date.
The router space is crowded, and if they don’t offer upgrades, users will swap their devices from a different manufacturer.
Here are the best reasons why you need to get the latest firmware on your Motorola router:
1. Better Performance
One of the top reasons router manufacturers update their firmware is to boost your network’s performance. We can talk about millisecond improvements, but it does add up over the long run.
2. Added Functionality
Routers can add new functions and features with the latest firmware. It’s to keep it up to date with more recent models, so you don’t need to upgrade your hardware.
3. Improved Security
The most important reason you need to update your router’s firmware is security.
One way hackers can gain access to your network and devices is usually through a compromised router. These updates ensure that this does not happen.
4. Bug Fixes
No device or software is perfect. Firmware updates are the best way for manufacturers to fix bugs and glitches that affect your network’s performance.
These are why you should keep your Motorola modem firmware updated with the latest version.
Now, let’s look at the different ways you can do it with your device.
How Do I Update My Motorola Router Firmware
Before we go into the nitty-gritty of updating your Motorola router firmware, you’ll need to know how to log in to the admin page.
Get your network’s Default Gateway value from ipconfig as you will type that into a web browser.
For Motorola routers such as the MD1600, MR1700, MR1900, and MR2600, you can use setupmyrouter.net.
For all Motorola routers, the default username is admin for all Motorola routers, and the password is motorola.
Make sure to type that in and log in so you will be redirected to your router’s admin dashboard.
Step #1: Check Your Router’s Firmware Version
The first thing you need to do before updating your router’s firmware is to check its current version.
This way, you’re going to have an idea whether you can proceed with the upgrade or not.
Here’s how to check your router’s firmware version:
- Enter your router’s admin dashboard.
- Go to Advanced, then Software.
- Select Software Version or System Information.
- The Firmware Upgrade page will show you if your router needs an upgrade.
Note: You can also compare the firmware version on the Motorola support page by searching for the model of your router.
Step #2: Download the Latest Firmware for Your Router
If you find out that your modem needs new firmware, you want to get your hands on the latest one.
You can find it on Motorola’s support page. All you need to do is search for the model of your router, and it will show you all the information you need.
Here’s how to download the latest router firmware:
- Go to Motorola’s Support page at motorolacable.com/support.
- Search for your router model, then select it.
- Look for Software Updates, and click on it.
- Click on Download to get the latest firmware files.
Tip: You want to take note of the location where you saved the file, as that will come in handy later on in Step #5.
Step #3: Firmware Updates Pushed by Your ISP
We can now start the update process after working on the previous two steps. Most of Motorola’s routers and modems can be updated automatically.
Motorola gives the latest firmware files to your internet provider, and they’re going to be the ones in charge of sending it to your device.
Your ISP can send this update at any time. Although, that’s not always the case, as there can be issues with the process. Some steps can ensure that your modem gets the latest firmware version.
Here’s how to update the firmware for your router that your ISP pushes:
- Turn off your router for at least 15 seconds.
- We recommend unplugging your router.
- Turn it back ON again.
- As your device reboots, it will automatically check for updates.
- It will automatically download and install the latest version.
Note: For routers that support this feature, you will not be able to perform the update manually.
Step #4: Automated Firmware Update on Router Admin
If your Motorola router does not support the previous method, you can still enjoy automated updates.
Although it’s not as simple as simply rebooting your router since you’re going to need to log in to the admin dashboard.
However, it’s still easy enough since you’ll only need to push a button to start the update process.
Here’s how to perform an automated update for your router:
- Login to your router’s admin dashboard.
- Select Advanced.
- Click on System Management, then Software Update.
- Wait for your router to download and install the latest version.
Note: Make sure that you do not turn off your router while the update is ongoing.
Step #5: Manual Firmware Update
Finally, if all of the previous steps do not work for your router model, you’ll need to do it manually.
It’s not as difficult as it sounds as long as you remember where you saved the bin file from Step #2.
Here’s how to manually update your router’s firmware:
- Login to your Motorola router’s admin.
- Select Advanced found at the top menu.
- Select Management, then Update Software.
- Click on the Choose File button and select the bin file for your router.
- Click on the Update Software button.
Tip: You will see a progress report at the bottom of your screen. You’ll know that the upgrade is completed since your modem will reboot.
That’s it!
Updating your Motorola modem is that simple. Wait for the light to turn green and your internet to reconnect, and you’ll know that the update process is complete.
If you still have a hard time, you can contact Motorola support to help you get your firmware update in order.
Read Next: How to Fix Motorola Router Login Not Working Issue?
Bottom Line
Now that you have a clear answer to how do I update my Motorola router firmware, all you need to do is follow these steps.
You can always get help from a professional or Motorola customer support if you cannot complete the update process.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.