Older firmware (pre-2023) contained vulnerabilities like default password brute-forcing, open Telnet ports, and XSS flaws in the admin panel. A firmware update closes these exploits.

If your MC801A becomes unresponsive after a failed update, use recovery mode:

The most common upgrade path is from the unstable B08 to the stable B12. Here is exactly what happens:

Before Update (B08):

The Update Process:

After Update (B12):

The ZTE MC801A is a popular 5G indoor router (often provided by carriers like Telstra, Optus, T-Mobile, or Three). Like any networking device, keeping its firmware up to date is crucial for performance, security, and stability. Here’s everything you need to know.

The updates have smoothed the transition between 5G SA (Standalone) and NSA (Non-Standalone) networks.

The most notorious issue with early MC801A firmware (versions B04, B05, and B08) was the DNS bug. After 24–48 hours of uptime, the router would stop resolving domain names. Websites would hang, and apps would fail to load. A firmware update to B12 or higher replaced the buggy DNS relay with a stable alternative.