[modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
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anon @ 1st Jan 10:15AM:
[modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Hi,
So it must have been overnight on 1/1/09 that my versalink 327 router updated the firmware to VER:4.04.03.00.
I remembered I was still using the old firmware as I had logged onto the router last week to check something.
Anyway, no I can't seem to connect to my wireless connections. I see that all the settings stayed the same SSID, WPA, and WPA key. However, none of the other computers in the house can now connect to the wi-fi.
My macbook keeps showing when I try to connect to the Wi-Fi it states "Invalid Password" when it's exactly the same as the one set on the router.
Any suggestions?
Thank you.
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anon @ 1st Jan 03:21PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I solved my problem.
I basically turned off the WPA to test if I can just get on the wi-fi and I was able to. So after that, just re-enabled and all is well (knock on wood).
I still find it scary that it automatically upgraded the firmware (and after browsing the forum to discover the firmware has been out for a year).
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fgonzalez0 @ 3rd Jan 09:11AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Mine too was upgraded overnight Jan 1st.
I had similar issue and just reset my wireless.
At least now it supports WPA2...
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toronado455 @ 6th Jan 10:17PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I've got the 327W also and just noticed this too! Completely new UI, with Verizon branding and red background.
How can they push a firmware update to you like that automatically without even asking the subscriber's permission??? I understand that it's technically possible, but I'd rather be asked first is all. Jeez.
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Jodokast96 @ 7th Jan 08:20AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by toronado455 :
How can they push a firmware update to you like that automatically without even asking the subscriber's permission???
You actually got me thinking a bit about this question. They give or sell these modems to you, which makes them your property (though only after a year in some cases). What gives them any right at all to update anything that isn't even theirs? Yes it may be their software running, but that still gives them no right, that I can see, to access my hardware and make any changes to it, without my permission.
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ddg4005 @ 7th Jan 09:09AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I had nothing but problems with the Westell modems (random disconnects and reboots) so I bought an Actiontec unit a few years ago it worked great (I replaced it with the sexier GT724WGR model).
It's a pain to do but buying your own modem may alleviate a lot headaches associated with Verizon-branded equipment.
--
A man must have a code -Bunk
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Mugman @ 7th Jan 02:54PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I noticed it too and when I went to "dslrouter" I got the same new fancy verizon interface. The online manual, which I think was there before, has disappeared.
One thing I notice now is that the Westell D90-327W15-06 continuously is accessing the internet, even when I have Locked down my McAfee Firewall. My little Vista network gadget shows a upload and download ever second or so, non stop. So what is being uploaded/downloaded? Remember, even with McAfee Firewall Locked Down it still goes on. Before there was only activity on the INTERNET light when I was accessing the internet or doing an upload or a download.
Methinks it is some stupid Verizon stuff they have added that I don't want running. Anyone else observed the same thing? Any ideas?
Thanks.
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JohnA @ 7th Jan 03:00PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
That's crosstalk between the modem and computer, keeping the connection alive.
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Mugman @ 7th Jan 03:33PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Hmmmmm.... never used to do that before the update to the Westell.
Well, makes me feel a bit better knowing it is not something bad. Thanks.
It also seems like my download speed has been lower since the "stealthy" firmware update. Upload speed is consistently fine.
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oshooda @ 7th Jan 05:59PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I'm seeing way too much activity to be anything I would consider "normal." The light on the modem's LAN side blinks about 4 times in 1/2 second every second (it apparently takes a 1/2 second breather). My configuration is 327W-->router-->pc, and this chatter occurs between the modem and the router regardless of whether the pc is on or off.
Another thing I question is an entry in the log about 1.5 minutes after the modem boots---"External content downloaded"---any ideas about what that indicates?
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BriGuy89 @ 12th Jan 01:49PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I had to downgrade from WPA-PSK to WEP, and enable SSID broadcasting to get my wireless to work after the firmware "upgrade" was forced down my throat on 12/31/08.
BTW, I have an A90 Rev E
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anon @ 13th Jan 10:19AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I just looked through the Terms of Service for the Verizon HSI service (DSL) and this is what I found. Might want to read these going forward if you think updating the software is scary etc. (Majority of companies do it - your security vendors included). Note the line that says "on your computer or equipment".
Entire terms of service are located here:
hxxp://netservices.verizon.net/portal/link/main/policies?epi-content=GENERICWIDECONTENT&viewID=content&action=TOS&epi_menuItemID=0e48d66306ea92a73cfc9708c70c430d&nv=L-i-1&hsl=true&fr=y
Section 7 - SOFTWARE LICENSES AND THIRD PARTY SERVICES.
We may provide you, for a fee or at no charge, software for use in connection with the Service which is owned by Verizon or its third party licensors, providers and suppliers ("Software"). We reserve the right periodically to update, upgrade or change the Software remotely or otherwise and to make related changes to the settings and software on your computer or Equipment, and you agree to permit such changes and access to your computer and Equipment. You may use the Software only in connection with the Service and for no other purpose.
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anon @ 13th Jan 05:31PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Noticed the new firmware this weekend after my modem started crashing every hour or two. Never had this crashing problem before. Also, the modem sends out ARPs every second. Old version didn't do that.
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Bytebender @ 13th Jan 05:47PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
This is one of the main reasons to bridge ISP supplied equipment whenever possible, and never install any ISP supplied software.
--
reboot, reset, reconfigure, then recycle.
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anon @ 15th Jan 06:50AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Were you able to reenable WPA-PSK? That turned out to be the nonconnect fix here.
1. Change to WEP
2. Change to WPA-PSK
The first system it hit here took 5 hours total online with Verizon to fix. The next day a different system was fixed in about ten minutes. I was very surprised to hear the "upgrade" had been going on for weeks.
The next problem is the firewall.
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BriGuy89 @ 15th Jan 10:29AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by Sandy G :
Were you able to reenable WPA-PSK? That turned out to be the nonconnect fix here.
1. Change to WEP
2. Change to WPA-PSK
Not sure what you're saying here -- did you just set it to WEP, and then were able to switch back to WPA-PSK?
I tried that once, and it did not work. But I did not do that switch post Westell reboot -- I'll try that tomorrow.
Took a while, but nonbroadcast SSID now works -- but not after restarting the system after hibernation. Even release/renew via ipconfig doesn't help. Only thing that works in that scenario is to reboot the laptop.
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anon @ 15th Jan 11:12AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I'm trying to remember exactly what we did after switching to WEP. I believe it was just connecting - which worked. Nothing as drastic as restarting hardware.
The system never did get connected without broadcasting the SSID in the beginning, so I didn't bother trying this time.
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Jodokast96 @ 15th Jan 01:40PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
The upgrade has been happening far, far longer than the last couple of weeks.
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magicfrizbee @ 15th Jan 05:17PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Having completely lost wireless connectivity for everything in the house, I too discovering the new firmware when I went to investigate. My solution (after checking the settings in the new menus) was to re-flash back to V03.02.01. Everything started working perfectly again (I did have to "restore from backup" in the menus after the flash).
I'll keep the "change to WEP and back to WPA" in mind if it "upgrades" itself again.
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anon @ 15th Jan 09:31PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Just do what I did:
I disabled the wireless security, applied, and then switched back to WPA.
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crawdoogie @ 19th Jan 11:30AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
yep, my old 327W got auto-updated in March 2008 with less than stellar results. From a message I wrote to VZ about the problem:
"The W327 had worked fine since we started using Verizon DSL (approximately 2 years).Then the other morning we could not access the internet. When I accessed the router's browser interface via 192.168.1.1 the router home page was completely different (the newer RED Verizon browser page) than before as if the router's firmware had been updated. The thing is that I did not update the firmware as our connection was OK at the time. After I logged out I could not log in again and the router would not reset."
So the update bricked it somehow. Probably when I restarted the router (not knowing that it was being updated) before it completed the flash, which would definitely cause it to brick. But that's one good reason why VZ shouldn't be flashing end user's hardware without their knowledge. They should have sent me an e-mail with a link to the update along with the usual install BS.
--
When I die, I want to go peacefully in my sleep like my grandpa, not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car.
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Argh @ 14th Feb 01:38AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
My ethernet and "internet" lights are constantly active with this forced upgrade. Even when I disable my ethernet, the internet light continually blinks. Makes one wonder just what Verizon is up to now! At best, the new GUI has some silly annoyances. For one thing, you can't simply drop PPP and get a new IP quickly, as you must first navigate deeper into the settings and login. Worse still, the router has to do a complete reset every time you change a setting now! If Verizon is gonna push this stuff on us, the least they could do is retain the functionality and ease of use of the original interface. sheesh!
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magic108 @ 14th Feb 03:41AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by Reader :
I just looked through the Terms of Service for the Verizon HSI service (DSL) and this is what I found. Might want to read these going forward if you think updating the software is scary etc. (Majority of companies do it - your security vendors included). Note the line that says "on your computer or equipment".
Entire terms of service are located here:
hxxp://netservices.verizon.net/portal/link/main/policies?epi-content=GENERICWIDECONTENT&viewID=content&action=TOS&epi_menuItemID=0e48d66306ea92a73cfc9708c70c430d&nv=L-i-1&hsl=true&fr=y
Section 7 - SOFTWARE LICENSES AND THIRD PARTY SERVICES.
We may provide you, for a fee or at no charge, software for use in connection with the Service which is owned by Verizon or its third party licensors, providers and suppliers ("Software"). We reserve the right periodically to update, upgrade or change the Software remotely or otherwise and to make related changes to the settings and software on your computer or Equipment, and you agree to permit such changes and access to your computer and Equipment. You may use the Software only in connection with the Service and for no other purpose.
Which is why i dont like there software on my machine. They make it seem like they can go into your machine and do what they want.
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aefstoggaflm @ 14th Feb 02:57PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I tried to notify Verizon about this issue.
See my post over at Verizon "Official" Forums : Discussions : Feedback and Suggestions : Verizon needs to stop updating end user's equipment without the user's knowledge
--
Please use the "yellow (IM) envelope" to contact me and please leave the URL intact.
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magic108 @ 14th Feb 10:26PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
They still shouldn't do it
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AP @ 16th Feb 11:18PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by Argh :
My ethernet and "internet" lights are constantly active with this forced upgrade. Even when I disable my ethernet, the internet light continually blinks. Makes one wonder just what Verizon is up to now! At best, the new GUI has some silly annoyances. For one thing, you can't simply drop PPP and get a new IP quickly, as you must first navigate deeper into the settings and login. Worse still, the router has to do a complete reset every time you change a setting now! If Verizon is gonna push this stuff on us, the least they could do is retain the functionality and ease of use of the original interface. sheesh!
I am also experiencing the continuous arp and pings from the Westell after the forced firmware update.
Others are seeing the same thing:
»forums.verizon.com/vrzn/board/me···.id=1071
Looks like it has to do with the My Network feature of the firmware. I see no option to turn it off. Does anyone know of any possible way to turn it off?
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Argh @ 17th Feb 12:30AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Thanks for that link. I've read that flashing a prior firmware image is pointless, because Verizon detects this and automatically flashes up to the new version again. It seems the best we can hope for is that Verizon sees fit to provide an update whereby we can toggle this behavior.
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Argh @ 17th Feb 02:12AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by Argh :
For one thing, you can't simply drop PPP and get a new IP quickly, as you must first navigate deeper into the settings and login.
Well, I was half right about this. Using FireFox you can't drop the PPP quickly and easily, UNLESS you render the GUI page as IE (such as with the IE Tab add-on). I assume this means if you use IE you'll be able to quickly disconnect/connect as well as view all the images (with FF, in non-IE mode, you only get placement markers for some).
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Jodokast96 @ 17th Feb 05:36AM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Looks like a constant attempt to keep the network updated of machines attached to it. If so, annoying, but mostly harmless.
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magicfrizbee @ 26th Apr 01:54PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Just an FYI - the firmware on my router was upgraded AGAIN Wednesday morning - it's been about three months since the last upgrade. So they're not being TOO persistent...
I stuck with the new version for several days - but there are router reset problems (every 20-30 minutes) during heavy usage with the new firmware that rarely occur with the older firmware (once or twice a month). Also, I don't like the constant "chatter" of blinking lights (auto-discovery?)
Once again, I re-flashed to the previous version (it only takes about a minute). Re-loaded the stored configuration settings and it's good to go.
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hrickpa @ 26th Apr 06:31PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I have a westel 6100f modem configured to a bridge and i am using a linksys WRT54g ver.5(bad wireless) and a WAp54g ver.2 wireless part.
get a linksys WAP54G or any access point then turn off the wireless on the Versalink 327 .
change the password on the Versalink 327
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DC DSL @ 26th Apr 06:49PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
I have my 327 bridged. I connected to it directly the other day when I lost connectivity (was a network issue upstream, nothing involving CPE). It's still the ancient Westell Versalink that's been there since I got it in like 2004.
My question: Does the upgrade occur if you're bridged?
--
There is no giant fur-bearing trout.
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JohnA @ 26th Apr 07:32PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
The upgrades don't occur on older units. They don't have a port available in the firmware to push upgrades, unless you upgrade the modem to a version that adds that capability.
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Jodokast96 @ 26th Apr 09:10PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by JohnA :
The upgrades don't occur on older units. They don't have a port available in the firmware to push upgrades, unless you upgrade the modem to a version that adds that capability.
That's what I thought. Guess what? They got mine.
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DC DSL @ 26th Apr 09:17PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
said by Jodokast96 :
That's what I thought. Guess what? They got mine.
Was yours bridged or not?
--
There is no giant fur-bearing trout.
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Jodokast96 @ 26th Apr 10:16PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
No, so I can't comment on whether that will stop it from happening, though Bytebender did claim in the past that it does.
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oldnslow2 @ 27th Apr 01:11PM:
Re: [modem/router] Versalink 327 firmware automatically updated
Hi,
Don't hang out here any more, but noticed the thread and thought I would put in 2 cents.
My ancient 327W was upgraded, also. It happened during some really nasty storms which included multiple power outages.
For the record, my 327W was haywired to act as modem and wireless access point in conjunction with a non-wireless BEFSR41 Linksys router using instructions found here on the forum. It worked that way for years.
With the loss of internet, I thought the 327W was damaged, but I got it back on, only to be confronted by the updated admin screens. I was never able to get wireless working the way I wanted (WPA), so I went out and got a new wireless router, bridged the Westell properly, and never looked back. My connection has not been this stable since I first got Verizon some years ago. Connection time is now measured in days, not minutes. And my daughter appreciates the stronger wireless signal in her upstairs room.
I guess my advice is to have a plan B ready if Verizon "upgrades" your modem. It cost me $$$ I did not really want to spend, but I am happier now than before.
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