If your EX6120 firmware update isn’t working, chances are it’s either a connection problem, a wrong file, or the update process is just getting blocked midway. This is a common issue with the Netgear EX6120 extender — and when it happens, your WiFi may start dropping, running slower than usual, or even fail to extend at all.
Firmware updates are meant to improve performance, patch security issues, and fix bugs. But if the update stalls or fails, your extender won’t benefit from any of that — and may even become unstable. The good news? You don’t need a networking know-how to get it fixed. Whether the issue is with a broken setup, or just a stubborn file upload, this guide walks you through every step to get things working again.
Why Updating the EX6120 Firmware Even Matters
Firmware updates are crucial. The EX6120 extender firmware controls how your device communicates with your router, handles signal, and defends against security bugs. When the firmware is outdated or buggy, your extender might drop connections, slow down your speeds, or can stop working at all.
But what happens when the firmware update itself won’t go through? That’s what we’re solving here.
Step-by-Step Fix for EX6120 Firmware Update Not Working
1.Start With a Simple Reboot
Before diving into complicated fixes, unplug the EX6120 extender, wait about 30 seconds, and plug it back in. This forces a fresh boot. Once it powers back up, try the update again. Sometimes a clean reboot clears temporary glitches blocking the update.
2. Check Your Connection
To update firmware, your extender needs to transmit signals to your network — and that’s where mywifiext.net. But here’s the catch: it isn’t a regular website. It only works if your gadget is connected into the extender’s network.
Here’s what you should do:
- Connect your device to the extender’s WiFi network. No mobile data or any other network will work.
- Open any browser and either type URL “mywifiext.net” or IP address “192.168.1.250”.
- Log in using your extender’s credentials.
If you’re getting “can’t connect” errors, you’re probably not on the extender’s network. Switch your device to the EX6120 network and try again.
3. Use the Right Firmware File (Manually)
Automatic updates sometimes fail. If that’s the case, manual update is the way to go.
- Head over to Netgear’s official support page
- Search for EX6120 firmware
- Download the latest firmware version to your computer (make sure the file ends in .chk)
- Log into mywifiext.net
- Go to Settings > Firmware Update > Manual Update
- Upload the firmware file and let it install
Important: Don’t unplug the extender or close your browser while it’s updating.
4. Disable VPN or Firewall Temporarily
If you’re using a VPN, antivirus, or firewall, they could be interfering with the update process. Temporarily turn them off before logging into mywifiext and trying the update. Just don’t forget to turn them back on when you’re done.
5. Try a Different Browser or Device
You’d be surprised how often a stubborn browser causes issues. If the update page keeps crashing or freezing, switch to another browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) or even a different device altogether. The key is to eliminate small glitches that block the update.
6. Factory Reset the Extender
If nothing’s working and your EX6120 firmware is still not updated, a full factory reset might help. Just know this wipes all your custom settings, including your WiFi name and password.
To reset:
- Find the tiny reset hole on the EX6120
- Use a paperclip to press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds
- Wait for the LED to blink and reboot
After the reset, go through the EX6120 extender setup process again, reconnect to mywifiext.net, and attempt the update once more.
Common Mistakes That Block EX6120 Firmware Updates
1. Not being connected to the extender’s network
2. Trying to update from the wrong web address
3. Using the wrong firmware file
4. Interrupting the update midway
5. Letting VPNs or firewalls block the connection
Avoid these, and you’ll save yourself a ton of time and headaches.
Still Stuck? Don’t Ignore the Obvious
Sometimes the issue isn’t technical — it’s timing. If Netgear’s servers are down or your internet is having issues, the firmware update won’t go through. Wait an hour and try again.
Final Thoughts
Getting stuck with a failed EX6120 firmware update can be annoying, but it’s not the end of the world. Whether it’s a network misstep, a software hiccup, or just a wrong file, there’s always a fix — as long as you know where to look. Stick to the steps, be patient, and your EX6120 extender will be back up and running in no time.
The next time any issue arises with your setup, you’ll know exactly what to do — and probably how to fix theirs, too.