Are you trying to learn how to update Spectrum router but can’t find the exact guide for it? Worry not, because, in this guide, we will be walking you through the complete steps on how you can do it!
Unlike all the other guides you can find online, our tutorial will be comprehensive and we’ll discuss everything in detail!
To update your Spectrum router’s firmware/software, connect your router directly to your laptop or PC, and then check if it’s eligible for an update. Then, log into the interface of your router, and then navigate to the router update section once you’re inside the interface.
Before diving deep into that topic, let us first explain the reasons why it’s imperative to download or install the updates of your Spectrum router.
Reasons Why You Should Update Your Spectrum Router
A lot of people often find it a mystery why they should update the firmware or software version of their Spectrum router.
However, it is a relevant step in making sure that your network connection will function and operate like how it should.
Here are some of the most customary reasons why you need to update your Spectrum router when an update is available:
- To ensure that the safety and security of your network is on point
- New features and functionalities could be present
- The performance of the router will be optimized
- The process of the router will be enhanced and will be up to date
- And many more!
So, what is the process of how to update router firmware Spectrum?
How to Update Spectrum Router? – Complete Steps
Many people think that the process of updating the firmware/software of the Spectrum router is the same as any other router, but that’s not the case.
This comprehensive guide will help you in the process of updating your Spectrum router!
Step #1: Check If Your Router Qualifies For the Upgrade
Before starting the router firmware update, the first step you need to do is to check if your router qualifies for an update.
For checking you will need the following:
- Model number
- SSID (usually begins with NetGear###)
Note: This information can be found at the back of your Spectrum Router:
Now proceed to the router manufacturer’s official website and check if any updates are available. For example, if your Spectrum router is Netgear make, then visit the Netgear downloads center and search for your current router.
Check the Router version you have and compare it with the official Version No. If you can’t see any new versions, it means that your router is in the most updated firmware/software version.
After checking this, the next step would be to…
Step #2: Link Your Router to Your PC Using Ethernet Cable
This is where most people get the confusion on how they can update/upgrade the firmware version of their Spectrum router.
In order to update your Spectrum router’s firmware version, you’ll have to link or connect the router directly to your PC or your laptop via an Ethernet cable.
- Grab an Ethernet cable and plug one end on the back of the router.
- Then, plug the other end into your laptop or your computer.
- Wait for the router to reinitialize.
Step #3: Download the Router Firmware
Once you’re done linking/connecting the router directly to your PC or laptop using an Ethernet cable, what you have to do next is to download the newest and most updated version of your router’s firmware into your PC.
While Spectrum usually offers NetGear routers, there are other brands of routers that they offer. To know the manufacturer, you can check it on the router unit itself.
Download the firmware version directly from the website of the manufacturer (as mentioned in Step #1).
Refrain from getting it from third-party websites because it can contain malicious software like malware, viruses, and other types of threats.
Step #4: Log Into Your Router’s Admin Configuration Panel
When you’re done downloading the most recent or most updated firmware version, the next step is to log into the admin configuration panel of your router.
To do this, follow these steps:
- Type in 192.168.1.1 or routerlogin.net on your browser’s address bar.
- Enter the credentials (username and password).
- Ensure that the details or information you’re entering is correct to avoid delays and problems.
NOTE: If you’ve changed the default gateway value, entering 192.168.1.1 could lead you to an error.
Check the value of IPv4 in your network’s settings – that’s what you have to input.
For the admin config credentials, the default username is admin, and the default password is password. Input this information if you didn’t change it when you first set up your router.
You’ll know that you’ve successfully logged in when you get redirected to the router’s user interface (UI).
Step #5: Navigate to the Firmware Update/Upgrade
Once you’re in, the process of how to complete the process of updating your Spectrum router is as follows:
- Navigate to Advanced > Administration/System Administration.
- Locate the option or the button that says Router Firmware or Firmware Upgrade.
- Select Choose File.
- From the list of files available, locate the firmware version that you downloaded.
- Click Upload and hit on Yes to confirm the process.
After doing these five (5) steps, the firmware/software of your router will be updated! Don’t panic when your router reboots or restarts by itself; this happens naturally or by default in order for the changes and modifications to apply.
I’m Unable to Update My Spectrum Router, What Should I Do?
There would be instances where the process would fail and not push through. So, what do you do when this happens to you?
Ensure That the Firmware Version You Downloaded Was Legit/Correct
There are many instances where people get confused with the model of their router.
Downloading the incorrect firmware would really not be effective since the software or the back system wouldn’t allow it.
So, double-check the firmware version that you uploaded and confirm that it is exactly for your router and that it’s the most updated and the newest version.
Double-Check the Ethernet Cable’s Connection to Your PC
If the Ethernet cable you’re using is damaged or is faulty, then it could also be the problem.
Make sure that the Ethernet cable you’re plugging into your PC is not faulty. Look for any signs of wear like cuts, blown-up parts, and even burns on the cable.
If possible, use a new Ethernet cable just to be sure of its performance.
Contact Spectrum’s Support
In case you’re still left confused as to why your router’s firmware version isn’t successfully updated, seek help from professionals at Spectrum.
Let them know about all the troubleshooting steps you’ve done and they’ll point you to the best and most efficient resolution.
Consider Changing Your Router
If all else fails, then the problem could already be with your hardware/router. Many of us think that because we don’t really physically touch our routers often, they don’t get damaged.
But, just like any other equipment, it undergoes the wear and tear process, too. So, when you find that your router is unable to accept the new firmware, some of the possible reasons could be:
- The model is already too old for the current router you’re using
- Your router could already have inner working damages
To update your Spectrum router’s firmware, first, check the availability of Router Upgrades from the Manufacturer’s Official Website. Next download the correct and the legit firmware version, make sure that the connections are secure, and push the update through!
Read More: How to Watch Recorded Shows on Spectrum?
Final Verdict:
If you’re having trouble finding the guide on how to update your Spectrum router, you won’t be any longer!
This tutorial will be more than enough to teach you the exact processes of updating or upgrading the software/firmware of your Spectrum router!
Whatever hardware you have and whatever year it was released/produced, you’ll find this guide easy and convenient to understand!
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.