Make sure you install the correct firmware version for your device.

If your device powers off during the update, you can potentially brick it and render it unusable.

Ensure uninterrupted power supply during the update process.

You should only update the firmware if you have a specific reason to do so.

Security flaw in current firmware versionĪs for the matter of safety, it’s safe to update the firmware as long as you follow proper procedure and keep a few important things in mind:.

On the users’ end, a firmware update may be necessary for the following or similar scenarios: This is because manufacturers only release firmware updates to fix critical bugs or add new features and enhance performance.

Unlike software or system updates, firmware updates are quite rare (usually once a year or longer). Do I Need To Update The Firmware? Is It Safe? On simpler devices, the firmware can even function as a complete OS and perform all the necessary tasks. Depending on the device, such as a router, phone, or camera, the firmware’s purpose will vary. On PCs, the firmware performs hardware initialization and manages some basic functions for various devices. If POST succeeds, the firmware loads the boot manager, which in turn loads the operating system (OS) kernel, and the OS finally boots. Once the CPU executes the firmware, the firmware performs a hardware test (POST). The information here is simplified, but here’s how it works on personal computers, for instance.Īfter you press the power button, the CPU receives an instruction to jump to the memory location in the ROM where the firmware is located.

Do I Need To Update The Firmware? Is It Safe?įirmware is low-level software stored in the non-volatile memory (ROM) that functions as an interface between a device’s hardware and high-level software.

Firm ware