The IOS of the Linksys EA6500 router is called firmware. The firmware may need to be upgraded if there is a problem with the device or there is a new feature included with a new firmware update. Regardless of the reason, most modern wireless home routers offer upgradable firmware.
You can easily upgrade the Linksys EA6500 Smart Wi-Fi router firmware by performing the following steps:
Step 1. Access the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Home page.
Step 2. Click the Connectivity icon to open the Connectivity window (Figure 1).
Step 3. Under the Firmware Update label, click Check for Updates.
The router either responds with No updates found or it prompts to download and install the new firmware.
Note: Some routers require that the firmware file be downloaded ahead of time and then manually uploaded. To do so, select Choose File. If a firmware upgrade fails or makes the situation worse, then the router can load the previous firmware by clicking Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, and then selecting Restore previous firmware (Figure 2).
Caution: Do not upgrade the firmware unless there are problems with the AP or the new firmware has a desired feature.