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Forum Discussion
RBS50Y (Mk 1) firmware corruption.
I have a large house containing an Orbi mesh system comprising RBR20 router, 3 x RBS50, and 1 x RBS50Y (Mk 1). For seven years, including regular firmware updates to all components, the system has operated perfectly without problems. About six months ago, June 2025, I performed a firmware update in the usual manner, but the update to the RBS50Y outdoor unit was interrupted by a power loss to the house. When the power was restored the RBS50Y no longer appeared as part of the mesh, and for the last few months, despite trying every form of rebooting, it will not reconnect to the base unit or any satellite either in Orbi or extension modes. I believe it needs a new flash firmware, but of course there are no Ethernet sockets to do this. There does appear to be a mini serial port inside the unit when the cover is removed. The blue and white lights flash upon booting but connection is still not possible. Any ideas on how to reinstall the firmware?
2 Replies
The last firmware update for the RBS50Yv1 was Thursday, May 26, 2022, 10:13:34 AM. Seems unlikely that the power outage interrupted a firmware update.
Hove you tried holding the Reset button (inside that tiny hole on the back) for 30 seconds. Then go through the process to get the RBS50Y in the correct 'mode'
https://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/RBS50Y/RBS50Y_QSG_EN.pdf
Most Netgear WiFi units do indeed have terminal pins on the printed circuit board. I have used an adapter to connect a Windows computer to an Orbi router and gained command line access to the Linux operating system. Flashing firmware through the terminal interface might be a topic folks on Reddit are comfortable with. (WAY outside my comfort zone.)
Netgear stopped making the RBS50Y so long ago that prices for used units on eBay are insane! Unless seamless roaming is a serious need, I would consider replacing it with any brand of outdoor rated WiFi extender.
With out a ethernet port to push code down, the 50Y maybe a gonner.
Did you try a 30-30-30 reset on the 50Y to see if this brings the unit back to default setup state?
There a USB port inside maybe?
