Where to find the update settings on your Firestick

Updates on your Firestick happen in the Settings menu, which you reach from the home screen. Press the Home button on your remote, then scroll to the top of the screen where you'll see a gear icon — that's Settings. Open it and look for My Fire TV (or Device on older models), then select About.

Once you're in the About section, you'll see your device information: the model name, serial number, and software version. Below that is a button labeled Check for Updates. This is where you manually trigger a search for new software. Press it, and your Firestick will connect to Amazon's servers to see if a newer version is available for your specific model.

The whole process takes about 30 seconds. If an update is found, your Firestick will ask whether you want to install it now or later. If you're already up to date, the screen will tell you so.

Key Takeaways

  • Updates are found in Settings > My Fire TV > About > Check for Updates on your home screen.
  • Your Firestick normally downloads and installs updates automatically overnight when plugged in and idle.
  • Manually checking for updates takes less than a minute and is useful if you suspect your device is out of date.
  • If an update is available, you can install it when ready or defer it to a later time.
  • Restarting your Firestick after an update completes the installation and clears any temporary glitches.

How automatic updates work on Firestick

By default, your Firestick is set to read and install updates automatically. This happens when your device is plugged in, connected to Wi-Fi, and idle — usually late at night. You don't have to do anything; Amazon handles it in the background. The update typically installs without interrupting your use, though your device may restart briefly.

Automatic updates are the reason most Firestick owners never need to manually check. If you use your device regularly and leave it plugged in, it stays current without any action on your part. However, if your Firestick sits unplugged for weeks or you suspect it's fallen behind, a manual check is the fastest way to confirm.

What to do if an update is available

When you press Check for Updates and a new version is found, your Firestick gives you two options: Install Now or Install Later. If you choose Install Now, the update downloads and installs when ready. Your device may restart once or twice during this process, which usually takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the update size.

If you choose Install Later, the update will install automatically the next time your device is idle and plugged in — typically that night. There's no risk to deferring; the update won't expire or become unavailable. Choose Install Now only if you're not planning to use your Firestick for the next 20 minutes.

Restarting your Firestick after an update

Once an update finishes installing, your Firestick usually restarts on its own. However, if you notice the device feels sluggish, apps are crashing, or the remote isn't responding properly after an update, a manual restart often clears the problem. Go to Settings > My Fire TV > Restart, and your device will shut down and power back up.

A restart takes about 30 seconds and doesn't erase any of your apps, passwords, or settings. It straightforward refreshes the system and can resolve temporary glitches that sometimes follow a software update.

Checking your current software version

You can see what version of Fire TV software your Firestick is running without checking for updates. In Settings > My Fire TV > About, look for the line labeled Software Version or Build Number. This shows the exact release your device is on — for example, "5.2.6.4" or similar.

Knowing your software version is useful if you're troubleshooting a problem and need to tell Amazon support what you're running, or if you want to research whether a known issue affects your specific build. You can also find this information on Amazon's support pages, which list what features and fixes came with each version.

Troubleshooting when updates won't install

If you press Check for Updates and nothing happens, or if an update fails partway through, the most common cause is a weak Wi-Fi connection. Make sure your Firestick is connected to the same network you use for other devices, and that the signal is strong. If the connection drops during an update, the installation may stall.

If the update still won't go through, unplug your Firestick from power for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try checking for updates again. If that doesn't work, restart the device through Settings > My Fire TV > Restart, wait a minute, and try once more. If updates continue to fail, contact Amazon support with your device model and software version — they can investigate whether there's a hardware issue or a problem specific to your account.

Why your Firestick needs updates

Updates add new features, fix bugs that cause apps to crash or freeze, and patch security issues that could affect your account or personal data. Amazon releases updates regularly — sometimes monthly, sometimes less often — depending on what needs fixing or improving. Staying current protects your device and ensures apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and others work smoothly.

Updates are also why older Firestick models eventually stop receiving new software. Amazon typically supports a device for 3 to 5 years after release, then moves on to newer hardware. If your Firestick is very old and Check for Updates says you're already on the latest version, that's normal — your device has straightforward reached the end of its support window.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn off automatic updates on my Firestick?

No, automatic updates cannot be disabled. Amazon requires all Firestick devices to stay current for security and stability. You can defer a manual update if you find one, but the device will install it automatically later when idle.

Will an update erase my apps and settings?

No. Updates only refresh the underlying software. All your installed apps, login information, and preferences remain exactly as they were before and after the update.

How long does a Firestick update usually take?

Most updates take 5 to 15 minutes from start to finish, including any restarts. Larger updates may take longer. During installation, your Firestick may be unresponsive, but this is normal.

What if my Firestick is stuck on an old software version?

Leave it plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight. Automatic updates should install when the device is idle. If it still hasn't updated after a week, try restarting it and checking manually, or contact Amazon support with your device model and current software version.

Do I need to do anything before an update installs?

No. You can leave your Firestick plugged in and let automatic updates happen. If you manually install an update, just make sure you're not planning to watch anything for the next 20 minutes, since the device will restart.