How to Update a TP-Link Router

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

The operating system that your router runs on is called "firmware". Each router make and model has firmware that was specifically made for it. From time to time, router manufacturers offer firmware updates on their website or from within the router's web console.

Why would you want to update your router?

Router updates are provided to add new security features, fix vulnerabilities, or other enhancements like performance upgrades.

Your router should only be upgraded to a firmware that was made for your specific make, model and version. Some firmware updates are specific to certain regions. Upgrading to the wrong firmware version may damage your router and void the warranty.

Do not upgrade through wireless connection unless the router is limited to only a wireless connection.

Turning off power during the upgrade process may cause permanent damage to the device.

2. Download Firmware

1. Using your computer's web browser, surf to http://www.tp-link.com/us/
   

1. Go to SUPPORT.
   

1. Click on Download Center.
   

1. Scroll down the Download Center and look for your router's exact model number.
   

1. Click on your router's model number to open its download page.
2. On the next page, click Firmware.
   

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2. Look at the Published Date in order to locate the latest firmware version.
   

1. 
   
   
2. Next, carefully examine the name of the firmware you are about to download.
   

1. 
   In the above example:
   
2. DecoM5 is the model name.
3. (US) is the region.
4. V1 is the firmware version
5. 170820 represents the published date in YYMMDD format.
   
   
6. Ensure that the model name, region and version match the label printed on your router.
   

1. 
   In the above example:
2. AD7200 is the model name.
3. US is the region.
4. 1.0 is the firmware version (V1 = 1.x)
   
   
5. Once you have confirmed a match, click the firmware name to download the file on to your computer.

Take note of the file download location:

• Windows OS - files typically download to your Downloads folder.
• Mac OSX - files typically download to the Downloads folder in the Dock.

3. Extract Zip File

In Windows, files typically download to your "Downloads" folder.

1. Open Windows Explorer by holding down the Windows Key and then pressing E (Win + E)
   

1. In the left pane of the window that opens, click Downloads.
   

1. Locate the file you downloaded.
2. Right-click the file and select Extract All....
   

1. The extract window will appear.
   

1. Take note of the extract location (folder). If you wish to extract to another location such as a USB drive or a different folder on the computer, click Browse and pick a new location.
2. Click Extract when you are done.
3. Once the files are extracted, a new Explorer window will appear with the uncompressed files. The location will be shown in the address bar while the extracted files files will appear below.
   

Take note of the file location. This is where your file(s) will be extracted to.

4. Log In

1. Using a computer that is connected to the TP-Link router, open a web browser (such as Safari, Google Chrome or Internet Explorer).
2. At the top of the browser is the address bar, type in http://tplinkwifi.net.
   

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2. If the address does not work, check the bottom of the router to confirm the default access address. You can also try to connect via IP address (example: http://192.168.1.1 or http://10.0.0.1)
   

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2. If you are prompted for a username and password, you may find it on the same label where your router's address is.
   

The default credentials are typically:

• Username: admin
• Password: admin

5. Update

1. Ensure you are logged into the router's webpage using a connected computer system.
2. Click on System Tools. On some models, you have to select Advanced first.
   

1. 
   
2. Select Firmware Upgrade. On some models, you may see Firmware instead.
   

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2. Next click on Browse or Choose File.
   Example 1:
   

1. Example 2:
   

1.  
   
2. An Explorer window should open.
3. Locate the extracted (unzipped) firmware file you downloaded earlier.
4. Once the file is loaded, click on Upgrade.
   Example 1:
   

1. Example 2:
   

1.  
2. The router will reboot automatically when the upgrade is done.

Turning off the router power during an update can cause permanent damage to the device.

6. Log In

1. Using a computer that is connected to the TP-Link router, open a web browser (such as Safari, Google Chrome or Internet Explorer).
2. At the top of the browser is the address bar, type in http://tplinkwifi.net.
   

1. 
   
   
2. If the address does not work, check the bottom of the router to confirm the default access address. You can also try to connect via IP address (example: http://192.168.1.1 or http://10.0.0.1)
   

1. 
   
   
2. If you are prompted for a username and password, you may find it on the same label where your router's address is.
   

The default credentials are typically:

• Username: admin
• Password: admin

7. Verify Firmware

The firmware version can be confirmed from the Firmware Upgrade page.

1. Click on System Tools. On some models, you have to select Advanced first.
   

1. Select Firmware Upgrade. On some models, you may see Firmware instead.
   

1. The Firmware Version will be shown on the Firmware Upgrade page.
   

8. Extract Zip File

In macOS, files typically download to the Downloads folder in the Dock.

1. Click on Go then Downloads.
   

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2. Double click on the archive that you just downloaded to extract its contents.
   

1. The extracted files should appear in the same folder as the original archive.

Sometimes you may not see the Zip file. Safari may have extracted the file for you if you downloaded the file with it. Just look for the unzipped file or folder.

Take note of the file location for later use of the extracted content.