IQ Panel 5 Family Now Uses WIFI Only for Firmware Updates

Qolsys has released IQ Panel 5 firmware version 5.0.2 with performance improvements, bug fixes, and upgrades to PGM rules on the entire IQ Panel 5 family. Unlike IQ4 systems, the IQ5 lineup no longer supports local firmware updates through the panel access point and now relies solely on WIFI.

Firmware Updates on IQ4 vs IQ5 Panels

The IQ4 family of panels allows firmware updates to be installed locally using the panel’s built-in access point feature, commonly called Panel AP. This method allowed a user or installer to download the firmware file to a phone or tablet, connect directly to the panel and transfer the file, then install the update.

While this feature was convenient in certain situations, it was seldom used in real-world installations. Most IQ panel firmware updates are performed using WIFI and the panel’s built-in network update tools. Because of this, Qolsys removed local firmware installation support from the IQ Panel 5 family.

This change affects the following systems:

• IQ Panel 5
• IQ5 Hub
• IQ5 NS

These panels can still receive firmware updates directly from Qolsys or Alarm.com using an internet connection, but downloadable firmware files are no longer provided for local installation. However, you can bookmark our IQ5 Family Firmware Update Page for information about future updates.

How to Update IQ Panel 5 Firmware

Before starting the update process, make sure the panel is connected to WIFI and is powered by AC with a charged backup battery. The panel must be on version 5.0.1 before installing 5.0.2. To find the current version, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer Code (default:1111) > About > Tap Software. Verify your panel is on software 5.0.1.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen and touch “Settings.”
2. Tap “Advanced Settings.”
3. Enter the Installer Code. The default is 1111.
4. Tap “Upgrade Software.”
5. Touch “Patch Tag.”
6. Enter the patch tag: iqpanel5.0.2
7. Touch “OK.”
8. Touch “Upgrade Using Network.”
9. Allow the panel to download and install the update.
10. When prompted, touch “OK” to reboot the panel.

The software install and reboot process can take several minutes. Do not interact with the touchscreen while the update is being installed.

Using “Upgrade Using Network” Without a Patch Tag

You can also update the panel without entering a patch tag. In many cases, simply selecting “Upgrade Using Network” will allow the panel to contact Qolsys servers and automatically search for available firmware.

However, when a firmware release is very new, Qolsys may initially restrict the automatic update path while the rollout is being staged. During that time, the firmware may only be available by entering the correct patch tag manually.

Once the rollout becomes fully public, the patch tag is usually no longer necessary.

Update Via Alarm.com

For those who are less into Do It Yourself, and more into Do It Together, you can request that your alarm dealer push the firmware update for you using Alarm.com. The Alarm.com server can tell if there are one or more firmware updates available for your panel based on its current version. The server will advise which updates should be installed, and will recommend the proper order, if multiple updates are available.

What’s New in Firmware Version 5.0.2?

Firmware version 5.0.2 includes several fixes and improvements for the IQ Panel 5 family.

• Fixed an issue where the siren could continue sounding during a Panel Test.
• Improved IQ Installer App pairing performance with IQ5 systems.
• Resolved an issue where the panel could reboot while writing health memory data.
• Updated touchscreen sensitivity calibration.
• Added updated supervision support for new PGP Heat Detectors, including the PGP9979 and PGP8979.
• Fixed certain PGM rule behaviors when using compatible W2W and IOG modules.

As with previous Qolsys firmware releases, version 5.0.2 focuses heavily on stability improvements and better long-term reliability for both installers and end users.

If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you need help updating your IQ Panel 5, IQ5 Hub, or IQ5 NS firmware, our support team is happy to assist. You can email us at support@alarmgrid.com or call us at 888-818-8283. Our support hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET. Please have your panel connected to WIFI before beginning the update process.