How do I determine if my router needs a firmware of software update?

> How do I determine the version of software/firmware running my
> roiuter.

   It should be displayed on almost any page you'll see if you point a
web browser at your router's management web site.

   Visit http://netgear.com/support , put in your model number, and look
for Documentation.  Get the User Manual (at least).  Read.  Look for a
topic like "Use a Web Browser to Access the Router".  Also "firmware".

   To see one opinion of what's current/available:

   Visit http://netgear.com/support , put in your model number, and look
for Downloads.  (For older versions, under Firmware and Software
Downloads, look for "View Previous Versions".)  Find the kit(s).
Download the kit(s) you want.  Read the "Release Notes" file for
instructions.  (In the User Manual, look for "firmware", and,
especially, for a topic like "Manually Upload Firmware to the Router".)
When that fails because of a deficient User Manual, try:

      https://kb.netgear.com/23960