Yes, Firesticks need regular updates to stay find and work properly
Your Firestick receives software updates from Amazon that fix security problems, add new features, and keep apps running smoothly. These updates happen automatically in the background when your device is plugged in and connected to WiFi, usually overnight. You do not have to do anything to make them happen — Amazon pushes them to your device on its own schedule.
The reason updates matter: older software can have security gaps that let hackers access your account or personal information. Apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and others also stop working properly on outdated systems because the apps themselves update faster than old Firestick software can keep up. Skipping updates is not an option if you want your device to remain safe and functional.
Key Takeaways
- Firesticks update automatically overnight when plugged in and connected to WiFi, so you typically do not need to manually trigger an update.
- Updates fix security vulnerabilities and keep streaming apps compatible, making them essential rather than optional.
- You can check for pending updates in Settings > Device > About, then select Check for Updates if you want to see what is waiting.
- If an update fails or your device freezes during an update, unplugging the Firestick for 30 seconds and plugging it back in usually restarts the process.
- Firesticks typically receive updates every few weeks to a few months depending on what needs fixing or improving.
How automatic updates work on your Firestick
Amazon schedules updates to install when your Firestick is idle — usually between midnight and 6 a.m. — so they do not interrupt your viewing. Your device must be plugged into power and connected to your WiFi network for this to happen. If your Firestick is unplugged at night or your WiFi is off, the update will wait until the next window when both conditions are met.
You will not see a notification or prompt asking you to approve the update. The device straightforward restarts on its own, installs the software, and comes back online. The whole process typically takes 5 to 15 minutes. When you turn on your Firestick the next day, it will be running the new version without you having done anything.
Checking what version your Firestick is running
If you want to see whether your device has the latest software, go to Settings on your Firestick home screen. Select Device, then About. You will see the current software version displayed on the screen.
From that same About screen, you can select Check for Updates to see if a new version is waiting. If one is available, you can choose to install it right away instead of waiting for the automatic overnight window. This is useful if you notice an app is not working and you suspect an update might fix it. The manual install takes the same 5 to 15 minutes as an automatic one.
What happens if an update fails or gets interrupted
If your Firestick loses power during an update or the WiFi drops, the update process will pause. When power and WiFi return, the device will resume the update automatically. You do not need to restart anything manually — just leave it plugged in and connected.
If an update seems stuck or your Firestick freezes during the process, unplug the device from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This forces a restart and usually allows the update to complete on the next attempt. Avoid unplugging during an update unless the device has been frozen for more than 10 minutes with no progress.
How often Firesticks receive updates
Amazon releases updates on a variable schedule — sometimes every few weeks, sometimes every few months. The timing depends on what needs to be fixed or added. Security patches come out more frequently than feature updates. You do not need to track the schedule yourself; your device will pull down whatever is current when it checks in.
Older Firestick models (more than 4 or 5 years old) may eventually stop receiving updates as Amazon shifts support to newer hardware. However, even older devices continue to work with most apps for years after the last update. If your Firestick is still streaming content without problems, an older software version is not an when ready concern — but security patches are always worth having when available.
Why you should not disable automatic updates
Some devices let you turn off automatic updates, but Firesticks do not offer this option in the settings menu. This is intentional: Amazon wants all devices to stay current for security reasons. If your Firestick is restarting at odd times, it is almost certainly installing an update, not a malfunction.
If the automatic update timing bothers you — for example, if it restarts during a time you typically use the device — the only real solution is to unplug the Firestick during those hours. However, this just delays the update until the next may be able to access window. The update will happen eventually, and it is better to let it proceed on schedule than to keep postponing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Firestick while an update is installing?
No. When an update is in progress, your Firestick will be unavailable — the screen will show an update message and the device will not respond to the remote. Updates typically take 5 to 15 minutes. Once the device restarts and comes back online, you can use it normally.
What if my Firestick keeps restarting and I think it is stuck in an update loop?
Unplug the device for a full minute, then plug it back in. Let it sit for several minutes without touching it — it may be installing an update and needs time to complete. If restarts continue after 20 minutes, try unplugging again and leaving it unplugged for 5 minutes before powering back on. Contact Amazon support if the problem persists after a second restart attempt.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare for an update?
No. Make sure your Firestick is plugged in and your WiFi is working, then let the automatic update happen. You do not need to close apps, clear storage, or change any settings. The device handles everything on its own.
Will an update delete my apps or account information?
No. Updates only change the underlying software. Your apps, login information, watch history, and saved preferences all remain exactly as they were. You will not lose anything when an update installs.
What if I want to update my Firestick right now instead of waiting for the automatic update?
Go to Settings > Device > About and select Check for Updates. If an update is available, you will see an option to install it when ready. The process takes the same amount of time as an automatic update, and your device will restart when it is done.