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How to update modem firmware
Firmware is the software programmed into your modem that makes it run. Firmware is updated periodically to add new features and keep modems performing their best. Updates are done automatically through the CenturyLink network, so as a rule you never have to think about it. However, if your modem isn't working properly, you can check to make sure the firmware is fully up to date by logging into the modem settings.
Before you start, keep these tips in mind:
- We recommend connecting your device directly to your modem with an Ethernet cable, if possible, to get the most stable internet connection. If this isn't an option, you can use a wireless (WiFi) connection.
- Updating firmware will NOT reset your custom modem settings, so you do not need to back them up first.
NOTE: Depending on your modem, your settings interface may appear slightly different from the images below.
1. Connect a device, such as a computer or tablet, to the internet through WiFi or using an Ethernet cable connected to your modem.
2. Open a web browser and type http://192.168.0.1 into the web address field.
3. Log in to the modem's settings interface (Modem GUI) using your Admin Username and Admin Password. Note that these are different from your wireless network name (SSID) and WiFi password (security key).
You can find the Admin Username and Password printed on the sticker attached to the side, back or bottom of the modem.
CAUTION! Do not remove or lose your modem sticker, which includes your default admin username and password. These preset credentials cannot be retrieved, and your modem could become unusable without them.
The modem sticker shows you TWO important sets of login credentials. How do you use each one?
SSID and Key/Wireless Password: Used to access and connect to your WiFi network
- SSID is the name that will show up on your devices in the list of wireless networks (may have two for dual-band modem/routers)
- Key/Wireless Password is the password you will enter on your devices to connect securely to your network
- These default settings can also be customized in the modem settings or through the app
Admin Username and Admin Password: Used to log in to your modem settings portal
- Access secure settings such as firmware updates, WiFi security, schedules, and more
- When connected to your home network, go to http://192.168.0.1 to access the portal (also called the GUI)
- These default settings can also be customized in the modem settings
4. Select the Utilities icon in the main menu.
5. Select "Upgrade Firmware" in the left sidebar.
6. Check the "Upgrade Status" area.
- If it says Upgrade Firmware, proceed to step 7 to continue the update.
- If it says Firmware is up to date or N/A, you don't need to update. You're all done! You can log out and close the modem settings page.
7. To update the firmware, first you'll download the file to your computer. Select "Download" on the Upgrade Firmware screen.
8. Follow your browser's prompts to save the file using "Save as."
9. Select "Desktop" (or choose another folder if you prefer), then click "Save." The downloaded firmware file is now saved on your computer.
10. Next, you'll install the firmware file you saved in the previous step by browsing to it. Select "Browse" on the Upgrade Firmware screen.
11. Find the folder on your computer where you saved the file in step 9. Select the firmware file, then click "Open."
12. Select "Upgrade Firmware" to start the update.
13. The screen will show you the progress of the upgrade installation. This step will take about 2 minutes.
14. Next, you'll see a screen telling you that the modem is rebooting. This step will take about 3 minutes. As the modem reboots, you will briefly lose your internet connection, including WiFi.
15. Once the upgrade is complete, you will be taken back to the main Modem GUI Login screen. Wait 2-5 minutes for the DSL and internet lights on the modem to turn green before trying to browse to a webpage to test that your connection is good.
If the internet light doesn't turn green, check our modem lights guide for troubleshooting help.
If you need further assistance, contact our technical support team. We're here to help.
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