Firmware Update and Recovery of the GHL Network Module
Which method should I use?
The network module in your GHL device can be updated or recovered in three different ways, depending on the current state of your device. Use the table below to select the correct method:
| Current Status of Device | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Fully Functional Device is reachable via GHL Connect app or web browser. |
Method 1: GHL Connect (Standard) Use the convenient File Transfer Wizard. |
| Partially Reachable GHL Connect does not load, but the device IP address is still reachable (Ping successful). |
Method 2: Emergency Web Interface Use the built-in minimal update page via browser. |
| Offline / Bricked No network connection possible. |
Method 3: Recovery via USB connection Use the Online Update Tool via USB cable. |
Method 1: Update via GHL Connect (Standard)
Best for: Routine updates of working devices.
This is the most convenient way to update the Firmware, the Filesystem, or the Webserver Index file (index.html.gz). It uses a built-in wizard to guide you through the process.
This is the most convenient way to update the Firmware, the Filesystem, or the Webserver Index file (index.html.gz). It uses a built-in wizard to guide you through the process.
Prerequisites:
- The device must be connected to your local network.
- You must be able to access the device via GHL Connect (App or Webbrowser).
- You have downloaded the necessary update files (see section below “Download the correct files”).
Instructions:
- Open GHL Connect and connect to your device.
- Navigate to the Network settings page.
- Locate the section File Transfer / Update.
- Click on the button to start the transfer wizard.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to upload the desired file (Firmware, Filesystem, or Index file).
Method 2: Emergency Update via Web Interface (IP Address)
Best for: Devices that are connected to WiFi but won’t load GHL Connect.
If the main web interface is damaged or inaccessible, but the device still has an IP address, you can use the “Tiny Emergency Update Page” built into the module.
If the main web interface is damaged or inaccessible, but the device still has an IP address, you can use the “Tiny Emergency Update Page” built into the module.
Step 1: Download the correct files
You must download the correct files for your specific device before starting. Please identify your device group below and save both the Firmware and Filesystem files to your computer.
| Device Group | Supported Products | Download Links |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (ESP32) |
|
⬇ firmware.bin (ESP32) |
| Group B (ESP8266) |
|
⬇ firmware.bin (ESP8266) |
Step 2: Perform the Update
- Open a web browser (Firefox or Chrome recommended).
- Type the IP address of your device followed by
/updateinto the address bar.
Example: If your device IP is 192.168.1.150, type: 192.168.1.150/update - You will see a minimal white page with upload fields.
- To update Firmware: Click “Choose File” next to Firmware, select the
firmware.binyou downloaded above, and click Update. - Wait for the device to reboot (takes about 30-60 seconds).
- To update Filesystem: Reload the update page, click “Choose File” next to Filesystem, select the
filesystem.binyou downloaded above, and click Update. - Wait for the device to reboot again.
Method 3: Recovery via USB (Online Update Tool)
Best for: Offline devices, failed updates, or changing the module type.
This tool uses WebSerial technology in Chrome-based browsers to communicate directly with your device via USB, offering the most reliable recovery option.
This tool uses WebSerial technology in Chrome-based browsers to communicate directly with your device via USB, offering the most reliable recovery option.
Prerequisites:
- Chrome-based browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera).
- USB cable connected between PC/Mac and GHL Device.
Instructions:
- Connect your GHL device to your computer using the USB cable.
- Open a Chrome-based browser (Chrome, Edge, Opera) and navigate to the online tool: https://api.myghl.com/wifi-update/
- The page will provide step-by-step instructions. Follow the prompts to select the USB port and start the recovery process.
- The tool will automatically handle the download and installation of the latest Firmware and Filesystem.
- When the process is complete, disconnect the USB cable and reboot your GHL device. The module will be reset to factory network settings.
Note: If you want to perform a full factory reset (erasing all Wi-Fi settings, email configuration, etc.), the Online Tool offers a “Format” or “Erase” option at the start of the process.
Important Status Information
You can check the current status of your network module in GHL Control Center (GCC) under “Communication”:
- Module Firmware: Displays the installed version (if communicating).
- Ready / File system OK: Indicates if the module OS is running correctly.
- Connected as Client: Indicates a successful connection to your home router.
