How to Update an Asus 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. Navigate to the ASUS website at www.asus.com/support
   

1. Under Select a Product, click Networking.
   

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2. Locate the Select your Product area.
3. In the Product Series drop-down box, select All.
   

1. In the Product Model drop-down box, locate and select your router model.
   

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2. Select Driver & Utility.
   

1. In the Please select OS drop-down box, select your operating system.
   

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2. Locate Firmware and then click the Download button. Ignore other downloads such as Utility.
   

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2. Take note of the file download location:
3. Windows OS - files typically download to your Downloads folder.
4. 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 into Asus Router

1. Launch your internet browser and type 192.168.1.1 into the address bar.
   

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2. Type the device’s username and password in the boxes
   

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2. Username: admin
3. Password: admin
4. You now have access to the router configuration page.

5. Updating Firmware for ASUS Router

1. Click the firmware version link on the configuration page.
   

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2. Click the "Choose File" button.
   

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2. Choose the downloaded firmware file, then click open button.
   

1. Click "Upload" button.
   

1. Wait for a few minutes to complete.
   

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2. Turning off the router power during an update can cause permanent damage to the device.
3. Firmware version is now updated.
   

6. 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.