Wireless routers contain built-in programmable logic called firmware. The firmware is embedded software that implements network and security protocols for that specific model of hardware device.Every wireless router ships with a tested version of firmware provided by the manufacturer. However, most routers are also designed to support a firmware upgrade process. This allows the manufacturer to provide enhancements to routers already sold. Manufacturers generally provide firmware upgrades as free downloads from their Web site.
Additionally, a few manufacturers (like Linksys) provide their firmware as open source code on the Internet. Programmers worldwide are free to modify and extend the code with new features for their routers. Several versions of this hacked firmware can be found on the Web, but the average homeowner should avoid these types of firmware.
The Firmware Update Process
You begin a firmware upgrade by downloading a binary file package from the manufacturer's Web site. After the package is set up properly on a PC, an administrator can launch the actual upgrade from the wireless router's administrative console. The router will stop functioning if the upgrade fails to complete. For this reason, manufacturers generally recommend an Ethernet cable be run from the router to the PC to ensure maximum stability during the update. Consult the router's product documentation for details.
Immediately after purchasing a router, check the firmware version to ensure it is the latest version. Firmware can be installed on a router at the factory several months before the router is sold.
Then, check the manufacturer's Web site occasionally over time for any new firmware upgrade postings. Each time a firmware upgrade is posted, the manufacturer will provide notes detailing the enhancements it provides. Feel free to skip an upgrade if the new version does not offer any interesting features. However, if a router is performing sluggishly, freezing unexpectedly or experiencing dropped connections, firmware upgrade often supplies a quick fix.
Windows
2000 - Code Version 5.2 or above
Windows
95/98 - Code Version 5.2 or above
Windows
NT 4.0 - Code Version 5.2 or above
If the above drivers do not meet your needs, please try one of the
following:
Driver
Description
Version
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.51
Windows
95 and 98
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.51
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.01
Windows
95 and 98
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.0
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.55
Windows
95 and 98
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.52
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.01
Windows
95 and 98
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.01
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.55
Windows
95 and 98
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.2 or Later
3.52
Windows
95 and 98
Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.100
Windows
NT 3.51
Text Only Driver - Firmware Version 5.1 or Earlier
3.100
Windows
3.1/3.11
OS/2
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