The popular Fritzbox 7590 and other router models are receiving an update. The manufacturer AVM released the new version of the FritzOS operating system at the beginning of September.
The new FritzOS 7.57 has a download size of around 40 megabytes. It is intended to improve the security and stability of WiFi routers. As usual with such maintenance updates, minor errors from previous versions will probably also be fixed.
Fritzbox update: These routers get the new FritzOS
The following Fritzbox models receive the update:
- Fritzbox 7590 and 7590 AX
- Fritzbox 7583
- Fritzbox 7530 and 7530 AX
- Fritzbox 7520
- Fritzbox 7510
- Fritzbox 7490
- Fritzbox 6690 Cable
- Fritzbox 6660 Cable
- Fritzbox 6591 Cable
- Fritzbox 5590 Fiber
- Fritzbox 5530 Fiber
- Fritzbox 5491
- Fritzbox 5490
- Fritzbox 4060
- Fritzbox 4040
Other models also receive the update to FritzOS 7.31, including the Fritzbox 5490 and 3490. What changes with the new software, however, causes confusion.
The AVM website for FritzOS 7.57 mainly lists new features from previous updates. For the latest version it simply says: “Stability and security increased.” However, there are indications in various Internet forums that AVM is using the update to close a security hole that has already been attacked. Attackers could have gained access to the Fritzbox access data through one of the HTTPS ports and changed the PPP access data. As a result, internet access or access to the Fritzbox user interface was no longer possible. Factory reset alone solved the problem.
Since Fritzboxes do not have a reset button, the plug must be pulled in this case. For the Fritzbox 7590, the manufacturer writes that you have to disconnect the Fritzbox from the power supply and reconnect it after a minute. Users then have ten minutes to access the Fritzbox user interface. There you can click on “Forgot your password?” and “Restore factory settings” the reset can be carried out. After ten minutes the button disappears again.
Security gap in Fritzbox closed? This is what AVM says about the rumors
AVM has not yet commented on these rumors. When asked by “heise online”, the company spoke of a “precautionary” and “necessary” update. “Precautionary security is very important to us, so please understand that we cannot provide any further information,” said a spokeswoman.
Owners of the Fritzbox models mentioned do not have to take action themselves. The Fritzbox comes with the factory setting “Auto-Update”, so the update is installed automatically. However, there could be a slight delay; the updates are usually only released at night.
Alternatively, you can download the update via the router’s user interface. You can access this via any browser under “fritz.box”. After logging in, all you have to do is click on “System” and then “Update” in the side menu bar. There you will find the option “Search for new FritzOS”. Alternatively, you can find “Assistants” at the bottom of the menu bar. There you can select the “Update” wizard, or “Update firmware” on some models.
Regular updates are important for the WiFi router to ensure continued security. However, some models are no longer supported – and are therefore a possible gateway for malware. We have listed which routers are affected here.