1. Overview The ZTE MC801A is a 5G indoor CPE (Customer Premises Equipment) widely used by mobile network operators (e.g., Three UK, Optus, Telstra, T-Mobile, Hutchison). Firmware updates are critical for:
5G connectivity stability Security patches Bug fixes (e.g., Wi-Fi dropouts, overheating, bridge mode issues) Feature improvements (e.g., IPv6, band locking, VPN passthrough)
2. Typical Firmware Version Format
Example : BD_TELTRO_MC801A_V1.0.0B12
BD = baseband version TELTRO = operator/customization V1.0.0B12 = build number (higher B number generally newer)
Operator-specific variants are not interchangeable (flashing wrong firmware may brick the device).
3. Common Update Methods | Method | Description | |--------|-------------| | OTA (Over‑the‑Air) | Automatic via device web UI (192.168.0.1) → Settings → Device → Firmware Update | | Manual local update | Upload .bin file obtained from your ISP support page | | Forced update via hidden menu | http://192.168.0.1/index.html#update_firmware (some versions) | zte mc801a firmware update
⚠️ Only use firmware supplied by your network provider — generic ZTE firmware may lock or disable your device.
4. Known Firmware Versions (by operator) | Operator | Region | Reported Stable Version | Key Fixes | |----------|--------|------------------------|------------| | Three UK | UK | V1.0.0B12 | Improved 5G SA, reduced disconnects | | Optus | Australia | V1.0.0B09 | Bridge mode stability, IPv6 | | Telstra | Australia | V1.0.0B11 | Wi-Fi channel selection fix | | T-Mobile | Poland/Czech | V1.0.0B08 | Security update (CVE-2023-2xxxx) | | Hutchison | Austria/Italy | V1.0.0B10 | Overheating throttle adjustment |
5. How to Check Your Current Firmware
Connect to router Wi-Fi or LAN. Open browser → 192.168.0.1 Login (default: admin/password or on device sticker). Go to Device Information → look for Firmware Version .
6. Troubleshooting Update Issues | Problem | Possible Solution | |---------|------------------| | “No update available” but newer exists | ISP stages rollouts; wait 1–2 weeks or request manually via support. | | Update fails at 99% | Power cycle router, retry via Ethernet (not Wi-Fi). | | Router bricked after manual flash | Contact ISP for recovery image or JTAG repair (warranty usually voided). | | Settings reset after update | Expected — backup config before updating. |