NETGEAR is aware of a growing number of phone and online scams. To learn how to stay safe click here.
Forum Discussion
Solved
New - RBRE960 / RBSE960 Firmware Version 7.2.6.21 Released
Enhancements: 09/08/2023
- Improves the stability of connections between router and satellites
- Improves satellite firmware upgrade stability
Security Fixes:
- This firmware addresses security vulnerabilities. For more information about security vulnerabilities, visit https://www.netgear.com/about/security.
Knowns:
- CTS/RTC web ui no longer present.
- Unforseen issues with NG and the EU region, NG had to pull v7.x FW version from being pushed to 960 series users in the EU region. Manual updating is not supported as well. Seems there maybe some wifi policy that has to be figured out between NG and the EU region. We've asked about this and for now, it's a work in progress and NG is aware of it. So if your in the EU region, v6.x version of FW is all that is currently supported for the EU region users.
Download Link:
https://www.netgear.com/support/product/RBKE962.aspx#download
NOTE: URL Links on the main download page for the RELEASE Notes are broke and not working. Release notes are included in the .zip files for review. We've made NG aware of this. The Download button links are working however.
Firmware Update Instructions:
To update your router’s firmware, follow the instructions in your router’s user manual. To find your user manual, visit https://www.netgear.com/support/, enter your model number in the search box, and click the Documenta...
NOTE: Update the RBS first, then the RBR lastly. I recommend doing a full on factory reset after the FW loads, system is back to ready and a power OFF for 1 minute then back ON has been performed. Use a wired PC and web browser for this. Load the FW on to each RBS web page using the RBS web page, not thru the RBRs web page. Then load the FW lastly on the RBRs web page. Walk thru the setup wizard. You can manually setup the system as well for those who are more experienced with this.
I HIGHLY recommend after the FW is loaded on the system and it's back to ready, power OFF all Orbi units and the ISP modem/ONT for 1 minute. Then back ON with the ISP modem/ONT first, then RBR then RBS.
A factory reset maybe needed if problems are encountered:
https://kb.netgear.com/31486/How-do-I-reset-my-Orbi-system-to-factory-default-settings
The best advise we can give people is to start a new config, power on one RBS and wait for some SOLID light or most often blue or magenta. And then add the RBS WIRELESSLY via the WebUI. Power off the RBS. Then rinse and repeat with any additional RBS(s). Pair RBS one at a time even if you have more than one. For ethernet connected RBS, after things come up wirelessly, you can move to wired backhaul but don't start with wired backhaul for those RBS that are ethernet connected. Wirelessly connect and sync RBS first before ethernet connecting RBS.
NOTE: Recommend setting the default DHCP IP address pool range to the following after applying and a factory reset: 192.168.#.100 to 192.168.#.200
NOTE: Orbi app or the routers web page may not report seeing new FW updates. NG may not push this to there auto update services immediately and may activate the newer FW update being seen on there auto update services at a later time. User will have the choice to manually update if you want too.
NOTE: The Disable Auto Update feature only prevents ANY new FW from being installed if available. This does NOT prevent the system from checking NG services to see if new FW is available. If new FW is available, this will be displayed as a notification to the user on the RBRs web page only. It will be up to the user to upgrade FW or not.
This article applies to:
Let us know how it works for you in this thread...
I manually updated 2 x RBSE960 satellites and then the RBRE960 router to 7.2.6.21 via the webpage (Safari browser on a Mac) as directed in the user manual. All appears to have worked fine although I haven't spotted any changes in function.
This went much more smoothly than my last manual update to 6.3.7.10 when I needed to do factory resets of the entire system to get it to work.
60 Replies
Any idea when Netgear will re-release the hopefully fixed .31 firmware?
Alongside a cup of coffee in the morning I check for firmware updates ever day...ORBI RBRE960 | WIFI 6E MESH SYSTEM | NETGEAR SUPPORT
*sigh*
I followed your link and the old .31 firmware is still there. Dated from April last. No bueno.
No idea. 🙄
For users having problems with there Orbi units after updating to v.31, We recommend that if you have done most troubleshooting efforts to clear the issues seen after loading v.31 and still experience problems, you'll need to downgrade back to v.21 version. RBS first then RBR lastly. It's recommended after downgrading, to perform a Factory Reset and setup from scratch to ensure there no lingering FW from v.31 on the system. Also disable the Auto Update feature on the RBRs web page soon after to avoid the system re-updating back to v.31.
We have made NG aware of the issues with v.31 and have ask them to consider pulling back FW v.31 for all Orbi AX and AXE systems.
Thank you.I rolled back to v.21 and did a complete Factory Reset and set everything up from scratch. The internet speeds wavered hardcore and my devices had issues connecting to the closest satellite.
Got spunky and tried rolling back to 6.3.7.5. There are a few weird bugs, but nothing nearly what V.21 and V.31 had. My speeds are also ROCK solid and there doesn't appear to be a memory leak. I haven't had to restart on a daily basis like v.21 or v.31.
I will live with the random disconnects and weird spikes in ping over those two versions. I have been with Orbi for a VERY long time and I must stay this is the first time I have had this much trouble. Kinda of disappointing. Especially with the number of people I have brought into the Netgear world.
I use to say my system was the most stable and always rock solid. Now I'm always questioning if its the ISP or the network. I hope this gets resolved soon.
I'm a little confused about version numbers. My RBRE960 and 2 RBSE960s are all running v6.3.7.10:
And the admin page as well as the Orbi app say no new version available.
Yet I got an email saying a new version is available, and this thread seems to concur (v7.2.6.21)
Should I manually update?
Yes, please reveiw this and give it a try:
robot1125 wrote:
I'm a little confused about version numbers. My RBRE960 and 2 RBSE960s are all running v6.3.7.10:
And the admin page as well as the Orbi app say no new version available.
Yet I got an email saying a new version is available, and this thread seems to concur (v7.2.6.21)
Should I manually update?
When I installed this update I started seeing 30 - 40% packet loss across the board. Things were really nasty and unstable.
Reverting to version 6.3.7.10 got me stable again.
I've got 2.5 Gigabit ethernet from AT&T and I'm hardwired from their modem to my machine. I see the full speed with no loss on the older firmware, makes me think something in the new release is not able to keep up with the speed?
Hello,
I'm a newbie just getting into the inner workings of my Orbi 960 Mesh system. It was first activated in 7/2023.
My system is presently running on Firmware v6.3.7.10.
When I run to check for firmware updates on either the web interface or the iOS app it comes back with NO firmware updates available. Any specific reason for this, when there is a new firmware update available for this system (7.2.6.21)?
Should I just download the firmware files and update my system manually?
I have several concerns I've noted recently that might be taken care of by this update in addition to whatever else the update fixes.
1) My iPhone 15 sometimes shows "insecure connection" when I check the SSID of the Orbi router's Wi-fi via Settings/Wi-Fi on my iPhone. After I reboot the Orbi system this problem goes away.
2) The IoT Wi-Fi SSID is continually being broadcast by the Orbi System even though I have it disabled on both the Orbi iOS app and the web interface.
All constructive replies will be appreciated.]
Thanks
RayNJ
RayNJ wrote:
Hello,
I'm a newbie just getting into the inner workings of my Orbi 960 Mesh system. It was first activated in 7/2023.
My system is presently running on Firmware v6.3.7.10.
When I run to check for firmware updates on either the web interface or the iOS app it comes back with NO firmware updates available. Any specific reason for this, when there is a new firmware update available for this system (7.2.6.21)?
FW can be updated manually or can be Auto Updated by NG at NGs choosing.
Should I just download the firmware files and update my system manually? If it's not appearing as a FW update being available in orbi app or on the RBRs web page, yes, you can manually update the system yourself.
I have several concerns I've noted recently that might be taken care of by this update in addition to whatever else the update fixes.
1) My iPhone 15 sometimes shows "insecure connection" when I check the SSID of the Orbi router's Wi-fi via Settings/Wi-Fi on my iPhone. After I reboot the Orbi system this problem goes away.
There's been known issues with Apples iOS:
Something to contact Apple about. I've heard that iOS 17.3 should be clearing all this up.
Also, Be sure to disable any MAC Address randomizers on phones and pads while at home:
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi-App/NETGEAR-Mobile-Applications-and-Apple-Devices-FAQ/td-p/2220016/jump-to/first-unread-message2) The IoT Wi-Fi SSID is continually being broadcast by the Orbi System even though I have it disabled on both the Orbi iOS app and the web interface.
I'd check on this after a factory reset and setup from scratch or you manually update to v7 FW. I have v7 on mine and IoT network is disabled and not appearing anywhere.
Installing this update now. Based on the giant change in build #, I'm hoping this is the answer to my prayers to correct the issues with what has been the buggiest, most unreliable Wi-Fi router system I've used in 20 years. The unpredictable signal dropouts combined with the involuntary activation of the disabled guest network drive me up the wall, causing irregular, irritating interruptions to video calls, gaming sessions, and streaming videos. I'm really really hoping this firmware update works, otherwise I have had it with this overpriced mess of a system and am ready to chuck it in the dustbin of history.
What is the Mfr and model# of the Internet Service Providers modem/ONT the NG router is connected too?
Be sure your using a good quality LAN cable between the modem and router. CAT6A STP is recommended.
How many RBS are deployed?
What is the size of your home? Sq Ft?What is the distance between the router and satellite(s)? 30 feet or more is recommended in between RBR and RBS️ to begin with depending upon building materials when wired or wirelessly connected.
https://kb.netgear.com/31029/Where-should-I-place-my-Orbi-satellite ️What channels are you using? Auto? Try setting manual channel 1, 6 or 11 on 2.4Ghz and 40 to 48 channel on 5Ghz.
Any Wifi Neighbors near by? If so, how many?Be sure to disable any MAC Address randomizers on phones and pads while at home:
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi-App/NETGEAR-Mobile-Applications-and-Apple-Devices-FAQ/td-p/2220016/jump-to/first-unread-messageTry disabling the following and see:
Armor, Smart Parental Controls or Circle, Traffic Meter.Has a power off for 1 minute then back ON with the ISP modem and router been performed since last update?
Be sure to restart your network in this sequence:
Turn off and unplug modem.
Turn off router and computers.
Plug in and turn on modem. Wait 2 minutes for it to connect.
Turn on the router and wait 2 minutes for it to connect.
Turn on computers and rest of network.Has a factory reset and setup from scratch been performed since last FW update? A complete pull of the power adapters for a period of time after the factory reset then walk thru the setup wizard and setup from scratch with a wired PC and web browser. https://kb.netgear.com/22697/How-do-I-install-my-NETGEAR-router-using-the-router-web-interface
Recommend setting the default DHCP IP address pool range to the following after applying and a factory reset: 192.168.#.100 to 192.168.#.200.
https://kb.netgear.com/24089/How-do-I-specify-the-pool-of-IP-addresses-assigned-by-my-Nighthawk-router
https://kb.netgear.com/25722/How-do-I-reserve-an-IP-address-on-my-NETGEAR-router
I would power OFF the ISP modem for 1 minute. Factory reset the Orbi router and power it off. Power ON the ISP modem and let it sync. Then power ON the Orbi router and walk thru the setup wizard again using a wired PC and a web browser.
Press the back reset button for 15 seconds then release.
https://kb.netgear.com/31486/How-do-I-reset-my-Orbi-system-to-factory-default-settings
https://kb.netgear.com/000062081/How-do-I-erase-the-configuration-settings-on-my-Orbi-WiFi-System
BadInternet wrote:
Installing this update now. Based on the giant change in build #, I'm hoping this is the answer to my prayers to correct the issues with what has been the buggiest, most unreliable Wi-Fi router system I've used in 20 years. The unpredictable signal dropouts combined with the involuntary activation of the disabled guest network drive me up the wall, causing irregular, irritating interruptions to video calls, gaming sessions, and streaming videos. I'm really really hoping this firmware update works, otherwise I have had it with this overpriced mess of a system and am ready to chuck it in the dustbin of history.
This firmware update did not solve my problem of random internet disconnections that coincide with the GUEST network enabling itself, despite being turned off in the settings. This happens sporadically, sometimes only once in a given instance, but often it happens over and over again about once every 30 seconds to 1 minute. This behavior is only noticeable if streaming video or making a video call. This does not happen on our wired network. It is not an internet connection nor router problem.
To respond to your questions:
RBR is used in access point mode, router features are not used. The RBR internet port is connected to a TP-link switch using Cat 6A cable as recommended. Wireless backhaul is used in all cases, as wired backhaul has always been problematic according to everything I have read here.
We have 3 RBS in our system, house is 2100 ft2, but uses plaster walls with embedded metal grids that effectively make our house a faraday cage compared to standard sheetrock over timber construction. All RBS are more than 30 feet apart from each other, about 50ft, 60ft, and 80ft radially in different directions away from the more central RBR (the more distant two are in an outbuilding and a garage).
I have tried varying channels in the past to improve signal quality based on neighboring wifi installations. Currently using channel 5 (2.4ghz), 44 (5ghz) and 101 (6ghz). We have nearby installations on both sides of the property, one running channel 1, on on channel 11.
As far as I know, none of our devices use MAC randomizers.
None of these features are on: "Armor, Smart Parental Controls or Circle, Traffic Meter."
All internet devices were rebooted as described in your post as part of installing the firmware update. RBS's were disconnected from power for easily a half hour each, all were reset to factory, and re-synced.
I updated my Orbi RBRE960 today with this firmware, no troubles. I have only a router.
I hadn't realized there was a new release of the firmware -- my regular checks say nothing is available, then a search found this. I wonder, would it be reasonable for Netgear to have an announce-type mailing list that tells us about new releases?
Anyhow, thanks for the post.
Be sure to save off a back up configuration to file for safe keeping. Saves time if a reset is needed.
https://kb.netgear.com/000062080/How-do-I-back-up-the-configuration-settings-on-my-Orbi-WiFi-System
Enjoy. 📡- Not sure what happened with this firmware but my wired backhaul stability has gotten terrible. Oddly, switching the RBS to wireless has improved things substantially. Anyone else with a similar issue?
7.2.6.21 update was smooth & network is stable. Old firmware was causing devices & network to drop several times per day, so this update is solid. Parental Controls, however, have stopped working. Anybody else experiencing this? I actually think they may have stopped working BEFORE the update yesterday. Thanks
Has a power off for 1 minute then back ON with the ISP modem and router been performed since last update?
Be sure to restart your network in this sequence:
Turn off and unplug modem.
Turn off router and computers.
Plug in and turn on modem. Wait 2 minutes for it to connect.
Turn on the router and wait 2 minutes for it to connect.
Turn on computers and rest of network.If SPC is having problems, I'd submit a bug report:
gringo28 wrote:
7.2.6.21 update was smooth & network is stable. Old firmware was causing devices & network to drop several times per day, so this update is solid. Parental Controls, however, have stopped working. Anybody else experiencing this? I actually think they may have stopped working BEFORE the update yesterday. Thanks
Thank you! Yes, I just did that reboot sequence this morning. No issues accessing SPC via the app and I've toggled the service on/off from the app as well. All devices are visible on the network. I strongly suspect the SPC service stopped working Sunday AM; before I upgraded to 7.2.6.21. Tbh, am just glad that the firmware update has made the network very stable. Thx for your help!
I did the firmware update, and all went intially well, except two out of my 4 satellites keeps disconnecting.
Its always the same ones, I also did a factory reset on the router and all the satellites, and still the same two satallites keep disconnecting.
I have to keep rebooting the entire system to get them backup and running.
Any suggestions?
I'd turn OFF the working RBS and move the other two RBS into place where the working RBS are and see if the problem follows.
What is the size of your home? Sq Ft?
What is the distance between the router and 📡 satellite(s)?
liamscor wrote:
I did the firmware update, and all went intially well, except two out of my 4 satellites keeps disconnecting.
Its always the same ones, I also did a factory reset on the router and all the satellites, and still the same two satallites keep disconnecting.
I have to keep rebooting the entire system to get them backup and running.
Any suggestions?
Thank you for the post. I've been troubleshooting for about three hours. I had to revert back to the previous FW. My router and sats were not providing the right amount of wireless bandwidth throughput. I was getting less that 98Mbps to my samsung galaxy s22 ultra when connected to the 6E band. I will give it another go in the coming next couple days.
Successfully updated to Firmware Version - V7.2.6.21_5.0.20. I am getting the throughput I am expecting now. I think my mistake was updating the RBSE at the same time instead of doing them one at a time. RTFM!!
Be sure to always update the RBS first, then after they begin to blink an process the FW the RBS file you can then update and send the RBR FW.
Be sure to save off a back up configuration to file for safe keeping. Saves time if a reset is needed.
https://kb.netgear.com/000062080/How-do-I-back-up-the-configuration-settings-on-my-Orbi-WiFi-System
Enjoy. 📡
