Verizon wireless updating

If you've had your wireless router for years, chances are there's a firmware upgrade you could (and should) perform.However, unlike updating computer software, which you can usually do with a simple updater tool, router firmware upgrades are not as easy to understand.Firmware updates are available for download from the OTA service.The OTA mechanism requires the existing software and hardware of the target device to support the feature, namely the receipt and installation of new software received via the wireless network from the provider.

OTA is similar to firmware distribution methods used by other mass-produced consumer electronics, such as cable modems, which use TFTP as a way to remotely receive new programming, thus reducing the amount of time spent by both the owner and the user of the device on maintenance.

Your router’s firmware is basically the operating system that's specifically designed to run on your specific make and model of router.

That is, unless you're using a multi-router compatible open source firmware such as DD-WRT.

New software is transferred to the phone, installed, and put into use.

It is often necessary to turn the phone off and back on for the new programming to take effect, though many phones will automatically perform this action.