Reolink Firmware Update Failed: A Troubleshooting Guide
A failed firmware update on your Reolink camera can be frustrating, often leaving your device in an unresponsive state. This guide is designed to walk you through the common causes of this issue and provide clear, step-by-step instructions to resolve it. By following these steps, you can get your camera's firmware updated successfully and ensure its continued performance and security.
## Understanding Why Firmware Updates Fail
Firmware is the core software that controls your camera's functions. Updates are released by Reolink to improve performance, add new features, and patch security vulnerabilities. A failure during this critical process usually stems from one of the following causes:
- Incorrect Firmware Version: The most common mistake is downloading firmware that does not match your camera's specific hardware model.
- Unstable Network Connection: A dropped Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection during the download or installation process can corrupt the update file.
- Power Disruption: Losing power to the camera mid-update can interrupt the process and potentially 'brick' the device, making it unusable.
- Corrupted File: The firmware file itself may have been corrupted during the download process from the website.
## Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for a Failed Update
Before you begin, ensure your camera is connected to a stable power source. Do not attempt to update the firmware on a low battery if you are using a battery-powered model.
### 1. Verify Your Camera's Hardware Version
This is the most critical step. Using the wrong firmware is the primary cause of update failures.
- Open the Reolink App on your smartphone or client on your computer.
- Go to the Device Settings for the camera in question.
- Navigate to Device Info.
- Look for the Hardware No. (e.g., IPC_51516M5M). Note this down precisely.
### 2. Download the Correct Firmware
Once you have your hardware version, proceed to Reolink's official download centre.
- Go to the Reolink Firmware page on their official website.
- Find your exact camera model and hardware version from the lists provided.
- Download the firmware file (usually a .pak file) to your computer or phone. Do not unzip the file.
### 3. Attempt the Update Again (Manual Method)
The manual update method is often more reliable than the automatic 'Check for updates' feature in the app.
- Connect to your camera via the Reolink App or computer client.
- Navigate to Device Settings > Device Info > Upgrade.
- Choose the "Upgrade Manually" option.
- Select the firmware file you just downloaded.
- Initiate the update process. Do not disconnect or power off the camera until it has fully completed and rebooted. This can take several minutes.
### 4. What To Do If The Update Fails Again
If the manual update does not succeed, there may be an underlying issue to address.
- Power Cycle the Camera: Disconnect the camera from its power source, wait for 60 seconds, and then reconnect it. This can clear temporary glitches.
- Perform a Factory Reset: A factory reset will revert the camera to its original settings. You will need to set it up again from scratch. Locate the physical reset button on the camera (you may need a pin). Press and hold it for 10-15 seconds until you hear a confirmation sound.
- Use an Ethernet Connection: If you are using Wi-Fi, try connecting the camera directly to your router with an Ethernet cable. A wired connection is more stable and reliable for firmware updates.
## When to Contact Reolink Support
If you have followed all the steps above and the firmware update continues to fail, or if your camera has become completely unresponsive, it is time to seek professional help. Contact the official Reolink support team through their website. Provide them with your camera's model, hardware version, and a detailed description of the steps you have already taken. Their team can provide more advanced troubleshooting and determine if the device needs to be repaired or replaced.