How to Update the HF21 / HFA21 WiFi Dongle Chipset

How to Update the HF21 / HFA21 WiFi Dongle Chipset

This guide explains how to update the HF21 / HFA21 WiFi Dongle chipset used in some GivEnergy systems. Updating the chipset improves WiFi stability with newer routers. The update requires connecting to the dongle’s local hotspot and uploading two firmware files.

Download the Required Files

You can download the firmware files from the GivEnergy Installer Resources page:

Website: https://givenergy.co.uk/installer-resources/

Look for the section titled “HF21 Dongle Chipset Update”. Two files are provided:

  • Chipset Update File (T27 – latest)
  • Bootloader File (version 1.1.4)

Before You Begin

  • You must use a laptop or computer (not a phone).
  • Ensure strong local hotspot connection.
  • If using an external dongle, power it from a USB power supply.
  • If using an internal inverter dongle, turn DIP switches 2 and 3 Off to reduce data load, then turn them back On afterwards.

Step 1 - Connect to the Dongle Hotspot

On your laptop, search for WiFi networks and connect to the dongle hotspot. Its name will look similar to:

  • WE2300G100
  • WJ2300G100

If the hotspot is password-protected and you cannot access it, press the dongle reset button for 10 seconds. After rebooting, the hotspot will have no password.

Step 2 - Log in to the Dongle

Open a web browser and go to:

http://10.10.100.254

Username: admin
Password: admin

Step 3 - Check Your Current Version


Select Device Management. Make a note of the current chipset version. If it is below T27, proceed with the update.

Step 4 - Upload the Firmware Files

Go to:

http://10.10.100.254/EN/uboot.html


Upload the files one at a time in the following order:
  1. T27 Chipset Update File → Apply → Reboot when prompted
  2. Bootloader (1.1.4) → Apply → Reboot


After both uploads and reboots, the page should display:

  • Chipset Version: T27
  • Bootloader: 1.1.4

Step 5 - Confirm the Update

Return to Device Management and verify the firmware version now shows T27. This confirms the update completed successfully.

Step 6 - Secure the Dongle


Under STA Interface Settings
  • Change the local hotspot password (under AP Interface Settings).
  • Change the login password (under Device Management).
  • Use a secure password rather than simple values such as 12345678.

Step 7 - Reconnect the Dongle to Your WiFi Network

Once the chipset is updated and secured, reconnect the dongle to your home WiFi network as normal using the WiFi setup menu.

After the Update

The dongle should now maintain a more stable WiFi connection on modern routers. If issues continue:

  • Ensure router is using 2.4 GHz WiFi
  • Ensure DHCP is enabled
  • Reduce WiFi channel width to 20 MHz
  • Move router closer or reduce obstructions

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