Mc801a Firmware 2021 [patched] — Zte

In 2021, ZTE MC801A firmware updates focused on stability, with versions like B09 providing stable performance and B12 addressing connectivity, albeit with potential DNS issues. During this period, the device transitioned to a legacy status, resulting in a reduced frequency of security patches. For official updates, regional carrier firmware, and support guides, visit the ZTE Support Center EE Community ZTE MC801A - The EE Community

2. How to Update Firmware (Official Methods)

Common 2021 Firmware Versions & Changelog Highlights

Below is a timeline of the major firmware iterations seen in 2021. Note that version numbers may vary slightly depending on your specific hardware revision (e.g., MC801A vs MC801A-1B).

| Version Code | Approx. Release | Key Changes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | B09 | Early 2021 | Initial wide release. Fixed major DNS leakage issues. Prone to random reboots under heavy load. | | B11 | Mid 2021 | Highly Recommended. Optimized CPU load. Better handling of 5G handover. Improved Web UI response time. | | B13 | Late 2021 | Interim build. Improved IPv6 stability for UK networks (Three/EE). | | B15 | End 2021 | Major stability patch. Better heat management. Restricted band locking on some carrier variants. |

2. Key Features Delivered by 2021 Firmware

Despite issues, the 2021 firmware introduced several core functionalities: zte mc801a firmware 2021

• 5G NSA support with carrier aggregation (n78, n1, n28, n3 bands depending on region)
• Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax, 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
• Four Gigabit Ethernet ports (LAN/WAN configurable)
• SMA antenna ports (two external 5G antenna connectors)
• Web UI & ZTE Link app management
• SMS over 4G/5G functionality
• Bridge mode (partially functional)

5. User & Community Feedback (2021)

• Three UK community forums: Over 40+ pages of complaints regarding daily reboots on B01 firmware.
• Optus (Australia): Users reported inability to lock 5G bands; router would fall back to 4G despite strong 5G signal.
• Power users: Disabled Wi-Fi, used external AP, and added USB fans to maintain stability.
• Preferred firmware: B06 was considered the most stable of 2021, though still flawed.

How to Check Your Current Firmware

To see what version you are running, follow these steps:

1. Connect to your MC801A via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
2. Open a web browser and go to 192.168.0.1.
3. Log in (the default password is usually on the sticker on the bottom of the device).
4. Navigate to Settings > Device Information.

You will see fields for Device Firmware Version and Baseband Version.

• Look for version numbers ending in B11, B12, or higher. If you see B03 or B06, your device is running pre-2021 software and is due for an update.

Comparing 2021 Firmware to 2022/2023 Versions

To give context, here is how the 2021 software holds up today: In 2021, ZTE MC801A firmware updates focused on

• Stability: 2021 firmware is very stable. Later 2022 firmware introduced aggressive power-saving modes that caused wake-up lag.
• Features: 2021 firmware is the last "power user" friendly version before carriers locked down band selection and cell locking.
• Speed: 2021 builds optimise for NSA (Non-Standalone) 5G, which is still the dominant form of 5G globally. You are not missing much speed difference from 2023 builds.

Method 2: Manual Update (For Advanced Users)

If your carrier no longer pushes 2021 updates (they may be on 2022 or 2023 builds), you might find a update.zip file on unofficial forums (use at your own risk).

1. Download the correct firmware for your exact hardware variant (e.g., MC801A_3UK vs MC801A_Global).
2. Extract the ZIP to a USB drive (FAT32 format).
3. Plug the USB into the MC801A.
4. Navigate to Local Update in the firmware menu and select the file.

Should You Manually Flash 2021 Firmware?

A Word of Caution:

If your device was provided by a specific carrier (like Three UK), it is "locked" to their firmware branch. You cannot easily flash generic ZTE firmware onto a carrier-branded device without risking "bricking" it or losing VoLTE functionality. 5G NSA support with carrier aggregation (n78, n1,

However, if you own an unlocked, generic version of the MC801A, you can manually update via the web interface.

1. Download the firmware update file (usually a .bin file) from a trusted source (ZTE support pages or your ISP's portal).
2. Go to Settings > System > Firmware Update.
3. Select "Local Update" and upload the file.

Note: It is always recommended to let the device update automatically via the OTA method whenever possible.