Devices That Need Regular Firmware Updates

Firmware updates are required for any device that contains embedded software controlling its hardware—this includes routers, smart home gadgets, printers, network-attached storage (NAS), and many others. You enter nothing; the device itself checks for and applies updates, often automatically. What you get back is improved security, new features, and bug fixes that keep the device functioning safely and reliably.

What Is Firmware and Why Does It Need Updates?

Firmware is low-level software stored on a chip inside a device. Unlike operating systems or apps you install, firmware is tied directly to the hardware—it tells the processor how to boot, how to communicate with components, and how to execute basic functions. Because it sits so close to the hardware, bugs or security flaws in firmware can be especially dangerous: they are hard to detect and can give an attacker deep control over the device.

Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix these flaws, patch security vulnerabilities, improve performance, add new features, and ensure compatibility with other devices or standards. For example, a router firmware update might add support for a newer Wi-Fi security protocol, or a smart thermostat update might fix a bug that caused inaccurate temperature readings. Without regular updates, devices slowly become less secure and less capable over time.

Which Devices Need Firmware Updates Most?

While almost every modern electronic device has firmware, some need updates more urgently than others. The following categories are the most critical:

• Routers and network equipment: Your router is the gateway to your home network. A compromised router can redirect your traffic, steal credentials, or infect other devices. Firmware updates for routers are essential because they patch known vulnerabilities in the networking stack.
• Smart home devices: This includes smart speakers, thermostats, doorbells, cameras, locks, and light bulbs. These devices are often connected to the internet and may have weak default security. Updates fix vulnerabilities that could let attackers spy on you or control your home.
• Printers and multifunction devices: Printers have become a common target for hackers because they are often ignored and left unpatched. Firmware updates fix vulnerabilities in print spooling, network services, and web interfaces.
• Network-attached storage (NAS): NAS devices store your files and are often exposed to the internet. Firmware updates are critical to protect against ransomware and unauthorized access.
• IoT devices (Internet of Things): This broad category includes everything from smart TVs to baby monitors. Many IoT devices have poor security by default, and regular updates are the only way to keep them safe.
• Computer peripherals: Webcams, external drives, and even keyboards can have firmware that needs updating, especially when they support advanced features like encryption or custom macros.

How Do Firmware Updates Work?

Firmware updates are delivered in several ways, depending on the device:

• Automatic updates: Many modern devices check for updates periodically and install them automatically, often during off-peak hours. This is the most common method for smart home devices and routers.
• Manual updates via a web interface: Some devices, like certain routers and NAS units, require you to log into a web dashboard, check for updates, and click a button to install them.
• Mobile app updates: Many smart home devices are updated through their companion smartphone apps. The app will notify you when a new firmware version is available and guide you through the installation.
• USB or SD card updates: For devices without internet connectivity, you may need to download the firmware file to a computer, copy it to a USB drive or SD card, and insert it into the device to trigger the update.

During the update process, the device writes new firmware to its flash memory. This is a delicate operation: if the power is lost mid-update, the device can become “bricked” (unusable). That’s why most devices will warn you not to turn them off during an update.

How to Choose Which Devices to Update First

If you have many devices, you can’t update everything at once. Prioritize based on risk and importance:

1. Internet-facing devices: Routers, smart cameras, and any device with a public IP address should be updated first because they are directly exposed to attackers.
2. Devices handling sensitive data: NAS, printers, and computers that store personal or financial information are high priority.
3. Devices with known vulnerabilities: If you hear about a security flaw in a specific device, update it immediately.
4. Devices that are easy to update: If a device has automatic updates, let it do its thing. For manual devices, schedule time to check their firmware regularly.

For most home users, a good rule is to check for firmware updates on your router and any smart cameras at least once a month. Other devices can be checked quarterly or when you receive a notification.

Common Problems with Firmware Updates

Firmware updates are not always smooth. Here are common issues and how to handle them:

• Update fails or gets stuck: This can happen if the internet connection is unstable or if the update file is corrupted. Try restarting the device and the update process. If it fails repeatedly, check the manufacturer’s website for instructions.
• Device becomes unresponsive after update: Sometimes a new firmware version has bugs. You can often revert to a previous version by downloading the older firmware from the manufacturer’s site and manually installing it.
• Update is not available: Some older devices stop receiving updates. If your device is no longer supported, consider replacing it, especially if it’s a security-critical device like a router.
• Automatic updates are not enabled: Many devices have automatic updates turned off by default. Check your device settings to enable them if possible.

Costs and Safety Considerations

Firmware updates themselves are usually free—manufacturers provide them to keep their products functional and secure. However, there are indirect costs:

• Time: Manual updates take time to download and install, and you may need to schedule downtime for critical devices.
• Data usage: Large firmware files can consume bandwidth, especially if you have a data cap.
• Potential for bricking: A failed update can render a device unusable. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure a stable power source.

Safety-wise, the most important thing is to never interrupt an update. Also, be cautious about downloading firmware from unofficial sources—always use the manufacturer’s official website or the device’s built-in update mechanism. Unofficial firmware can contain malware or be incompatible with your hardware.

Alternatives to Regular Firmware Updates

If you cannot update a device, there are a few alternatives to reduce risk:

• Isolate the device: Put unupdatable devices on a separate network (like a guest network) so they can’t access your main devices.
• Disable unnecessary features: Turn off remote access, UPnP, or other features that increase exposure.
• Replace the device: For security-critical devices that no longer receive updates, replacement is often the safest option.
• Use a firewall: A network firewall can block suspicious traffic to and from devices that can’t be updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I update my router’s firmware?

Check for router firmware updates at least once a month. Many routers have an option to check automatically, but if yours doesn’t, log into the admin interface and look for a firmware update section. Security patches for routers are released frequently, and staying current is one of the most effective ways to protect your home network.

Can firmware updates be done automatically?

Yes, many modern devices support automatic firmware updates. You can usually enable this in the device’s settings or companion app. For devices that don’t support automatic updates, you’ll need to check manually. Some routers and NAS devices allow you to schedule update checks.

What happens if I skip a firmware update?

Skipping updates leaves your device vulnerable to known security flaws. Over time, it may also lose compatibility with newer software or services. For example, a smart TV that doesn’t update might stop supporting streaming apps. In the worst case, an unpatched device can be hacked and used to attack other devices on your network.

Can a firmware update damage my device?

While rare, a firmware update can fail and leave the device in a non-functional state (“bricked”). This is usually caused by a power outage during the update or a corrupted download. To minimize risk, ensure your device is plugged into a stable power source and don’t interrupt the update process. If a device does get bricked, some manufacturers offer recovery modes that can restore it.

Is it safe to install firmware from a third-party website?

No, you should only install firmware from the device manufacturer’s official website or through the device’s built-in update mechanism. Third-party firmware may contain malware, be incompatible, or void your warranty. If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer’s support.

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