Updating firmware when I can't get an internet connection through the router

Question

I am trying to update the firmware for WRT54G V8, but some of the instructions indicate I need to have the router connected and be connected to the internet.  I cannot get an internet connection through the router.  Can I upgrade firmware without being connected to the internet through the router.  (I have had this router for about a year and a half with no problems until now.)

Answer 1

Yes, you can upgrade the firmware without an Internet connection.
To upgrade the firmware, first download the new firmware into a computer that you can wire to your router.
Next, power down your entire network.
Then wire the computer to a LAN port on the router.
Disconnect all other wires from the router.
Power up the router and allow it to fully boot (1-2 minutes).
Power up your computer.
Login to the router, and do the firmware upgrade  (it will likely take several minutes).
Power down your entire network.
Next you need to reset the router to factory defaults.
To reset your router to factory defaults, use the following procedure:
1) Power down all computers, the router, and the modem, and unplug them from the wall.
2) Disconnect all wires from the router.
3) Power up the router and allow it to fully boot (1-2 minutes).
4) Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds, then release it, then let the router reset and reboot (2-3 minutes).
5) Power down the router.
6) Connect one computer by wire to port 1 on the router (NOT to the internet port).
7) Power up the router and allow it to fully boot (1-2 minutes).
8) Power up the computer (if the computer has a wireless card, make sure it is off).
9) Try to ping the router. To do this, click the "Start" button > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt. A black DOS box will appear. Enter the following: "ping 192.168.1.1" (no quotes), and hit the Enter key. You will see 3 or 4 lines that start either with "Reply from ... " or "Request timed out." If you see "Reply from ...", your computer has found your router.
10) Open your browser and point it to 192.168.1.1. This will take you to your router's login page. Leave the user name blank, and in the password field, enter "admin" (with no quotes). This will take you to your router setup page. Note the version number of your firmware (usually listed near upper right corner of screen). Exit your browser.
If you get this far without problems, try the setup disk (or setup the router manually, if you prefer), and see if you can get your router setup and working.
If you cannot get "Reply from ..." in step 9 above, your router is likely dead. Report back with this problem
If you get a reply in step 9, but cannot complete step 10, then either your router is dead or the firmware is corrupt. Report back with this problem.
If you need additional help, please state your ISP, the make and model of your modem, your router's firmware version, and the results of steps 9 and 10. Also, if you get any error messages, copy them exactly and report back.
Please let me know how things turn out for you.