TFTP Recovery

Not sure which firmware to choose?
Read this first: How to Choose Firmware for TFTP Recovery

TFTP is the simple local transfer method many router recovery guides use. TFTP recovery usually requires a temporary static IP on the computer, such as `192.168.1.254`, and the correct firmware file ready before the router enters recovery mode.

On a Mac, you can prepare the macOS TFTP Server recovery environment first, then confirm the network adapter, TFTP folder, and firmware file are ready.

TFTP recovery is relatively simple, but must be strictly followed in sequence:

1. Set computer IP to 192.168.1.x (e.g. 192.168.1.254)
2. Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
3. Ensure computer is directly connected to router LAN port
4. Close firewall

1. Run TFTP server software
2. Place firmware file in TFTP directory
3. Confirm the TFTP Server is bound to the wired Ethernet IP, not Wi-Fi or VPN
4. Power off the router
5. Hold the Reset button
6. Power on the router
7. Wait for indicator lights to start blinking (~5-10 seconds)
8. Release the Reset button
9. TFTP automatically transfers firmware

Recovery is not guaranteed. It depends on the router model, the firmware file, and whether the device successfully enters recovery mode. Checking the computer-side TFTP Server environment first removes several common failure points.

Connection failed

1. Check if firewall blocks TFTP
2. Confirm ethernet cable is connected to LAN port (not WAN)
3. Verify computer IP settings are correct

Transfer timeout

1. Replace ethernet cable with a high-quality one
2. Try setting computer IP to 192.168.1.254
3. Disable other network adapters on computer

Firmware flash failed

1. Confirm firmware filename is correct (usually .itb .bin or .chk)
2. Confirm firmware is suitable for this model
3. Re-download firmware, file may be corrupted

1. TFTP Tools
2. TTL Serial Unbrick
3. Web Recovery
4. NMRP Recovery

If you have confirmed that this model uses TFTP recovery, run a recovery check on your Mac before powering the router into recovery mode.