No. SIM locking is handled by a separate security partition (NV data). Updating stock firmware will not unlock a carrier-locked router. You need an unlock code from the ISP or a third-party service.

Many users ignore firmware updates until something breaks. Here’s why that’s a mistake:

Firmware also ties into the product lifecycle. Devices that stop receiving updates become security liabilities and often get retired prematurely, contributing to electronic waste. Extending a router’s useful life through continued firmware updates—or by enabling community firmware—reduces replacement frequency and environmental impact. Designing modular, updatable firmware with transparent end‑of‑life policies would improve sustainability across the industry.

Cause: Failed flash or power interruption. Fix: Perform the Emergency Recovery (Method 2 above). If that fails, you need a serial TTL UART cable to reflash the bootloader – an advanced operation requiring soldering and a logic analyzer. Consider professional repair or replacement.