New Firmware Version NTG9X50C_12.06.21.00 Rolled Out for AT&T Netgear Nighthawk

A new firmware build was released on February 28th, 2021 for AT&T's version of the Netgear Nighthawk mobile hotspot device. 

Unfortunately, the patch notes, other than "Device Performance and other improvements" have not been made public as of this writing.

However, we have had a few members note some changes in their ability to participate in higher-level functions, and also some increases in the perceived speed noted while using the device.

The Netgear Nighthawk Device

The Netgear Nighthawk became AT&T's flagship mobile hotspot when it was announced in October 2017. Though it first came out in 2017, the Nighthawk remains a top pick option for AT&T's network.  

We have tested the device copiously, and have found its raw capabilities to be very well suited towards making the most of LTE networks, even as 5G has arrived.

We have a full gear center detailing the specs of the Netgear Nightawk, here:

Netgear Nighthawk Gear Center

What is a firmware update?

The devices we use today inevitably become outdated with the advent of newer technologies - sometimes rather quickly.

To cope with this advancement in technology, device manufacturers and/or the companies currently supporting the device update the device's firmware to utilize new technologies. They also use firmware updates to remedy glitches or bugs that have been noted after a device has been released to the public.

Firmware is at its core, a set of instructions needed for a device to perform the tasks that it was built for. In simpler words, it is the programming that is responsible to run the machine. Firmware is used to execute the functions of the hardware.