If your device is currently running a 2021 firmware version (B07 to B15):
(Settings > Device Settings > Update Management), the 2021 era saw a rise in "power users" seeking manual firmware flashes to bypass provider restrictions or fix bugs. However, flashing incorrect regional firmware (e.g., switching from a European to a Chinese version) frequently resulted in "No Service" errors due to mismatched QCN configuration files. ZTE MC801A - The EE Community
Often, firmware released around mid-2021 would start with version numbers like BD_EELISAMC801AV1.0.0Bxx .
Aggressive 5G power-saving mode or weak anchor 4G band. zte mc801a firmware 2021
The ZTE MC801A firmware in 2021 was , primarily due to rushed 5G NSA integration, poor thermal management, and several security gaps. While build B06 offered marginal improvements, the device did not reach an acceptable stability level until mid-2022 firmware updates (post B10 ). For any user still operating a 2021-era firmware on an MC801A, an upgrade is strongly advised.
ZTE MC801A routers with 2021 firmware are often valued for stability and, in carrier-specific versions, for enabling advanced settings, such as using external antenna ports or implementing bridge mode via workarounds. The device, which utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon X55 chipset, supports 32 devices and has a 10-meter Wi-Fi range, though firmware-specific hacks are sometimes required to unlock its full potential. For more details, watch the guide on YouTube YouTube .
The ZTE MC801A is one of the most popular 5G wireless routers on the market. It delivers high-speed internet by converting 5G cellular signals into dual-band Wi-Fi 6. However, the hardware is only as good as the software running it. If your device is currently running a 2021
While specific version numbers often varied depending on your ISP (Internet Service Provider)—such as Three UK, A1, or generic Unlocked versions—the evolution of the software followed a similar path.
If your device is running a version from this era, you gain access to several critical networking features: 1. Manual Band Locking
Look for the string (e.g., BD_ZTE_MC801AV1.0.0B07 ). Optimizing Your MC801A (Regardless of Firmware) Aggressive 5G power-saving mode or weak anchor 4G band
The 2021 updates laid the foundation for how the Snapdragon X55 modem handles modern 5G standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) networks. If you are using a second-hand unit that hasn't been updated since 2020, you are missing out on:
Before diving into the software, it's crucial to understand the hardware. The ZTE MC801A is a 5G indoor router designed to receive a 5G cellular signal and convert it into a Wi-Fi network for your home or office. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X55 5G modem (SDX55M), the leading chipset of its generation. This powerful modem enables theoretical 5G download speeds of up to 3.8 Gbit/s. The device was also one of the early adopters of Wi-Fi 6 technology, a significant leap forward from older Wi-Fi 5 standards.
In 2021, ZTE released several firmware updates for the MC801A device. These updates aimed to improve the device's performance, stability, and security. Some of the notable updates include:
For standard, unbranded, or manufacturer-supplied devices, you can update directly through the router's web interface: Log in to the Web Admin page. Go to > Device Settings > Update Management .