Backup Existing Firmware

> How can I back the existing firmware on my router before upgrading?

   I wouldn't rule out the possibility, but I've not seen a way to do
it.  (Saving the settings can be done, of course.)

   I'd download the old-version firmware kit (if you don't already have
it) before doing the upgrade.  I also tend to do upgrades manually,
because then I know where I've put the kit which I'm downloading.

   At: http://www.netgear.com/support/product/R7000#download

there's a "+ View Previous Versions" button-thing which leads to a
pretty long list.