# How to update a Brother embroidery machine

Source: https://threadandfeed.com/blog/how-to-update-brother-embroidery-machine
Published: 2026-10-09
Publisher: Thread & Feed

**Short answer:** Find your machine's current software version on its settings screen, then download the update for your exact model from Brother's support site. Copy the update file alone onto an empty USB stick, start the machine in update mode as the instructions for your model describe, load the file and wait without turning the machine off. Restart and check that the version number changed.

Brother releases software updates for many of its computerized embroidery and combo machines. Updates can fix bugs, improve compatibility with design files or apps, and sometimes add features. The process is simple but must be done carefully, because turning the machine off mid-update can cause problems. This guide covers how to find your current version, where to get the right file, the general USB update steps used on many Brother PE, SE and Innov-is machines, and what to do if something goes wrong. Exact button names and steps vary by model, so always follow the instructions published with the download for your machine.

## Do you need to update?

Not every machine has an update, and not every update is urgent. It is worth checking for one if you are having a software-related problem, such as a design file the machine will not read, an app or wireless connection issue, or a known bug described in Brother's update notes. It is also good practice to check once in a while, especially on machines with wireless features.

Updates do not fix mechanical problems. Thread breaks, nesting, skipped stitches and hoop alignment issues are almost always setup, needle or stabilizer problems. Our [Brother embroidery machine problems](https://threadandfeed.com/blog/brother-embroidery-machine-problems) guide covers those.

## Step 1: Find your model and current version

You need two things: the exact model name and the current software version. The model is printed on the machine, usually on the front or on a label at the back or bottom. Some models have a variant letter or suffix, so copy it exactly.

The software version is shown on the machine's settings screen on most computerized models. Open settings and page through until you see a version line, often near the last settings page. Write it down so you can confirm the update worked.

Note: Download updates only from Brother's official support site for your country and model. Files for a different model or region can fail to install or cause errors.

## Step 2: Download the update and prepare a USB stick

Go to Brother's support site, search for your model, and look in the downloads section for a machine software or firmware update. Compare the version listed there with the one on your machine. If they match, you are already up to date.

1. Download the update file for your exact model and read the instructions on the download page.
2. If the download is a compressed file, extract it as the instructions describe.
3. Use a USB stick that the machine can read; an empty, freshly formatted stick avoids confusion.
4. Copy only the update file to the top level of the stick, not inside a folder.
5. Safely eject the stick from your computer.

## Step 3: Install the update on the machine

On many Brother embroidery machines, the update is started by turning the machine on while holding a specific button, which opens an update screen instead of the normal startup. Which button you hold, and the exact screen prompts, vary by model, so keep the instructions from the download page open while you work.

1. Remove the hoop and make sure the embroidery arm has room to move.
2. Turn the machine off and insert the USB stick into the machine's USB port.
3. Start the machine in update mode as described in the instructions for your model.
4. Press the load or start button on the update screen when prompted.
5. Wait for the message that the update is complete. Do not turn the machine off or remove the stick during the update.
6. Turn the machine off, remove the USB stick, and turn it back on normally.
7. Open the settings screen and confirm that the version number matches the new version.

Note: Do not cut power during an update. If you are in an area with unreliable power, wait for a better time to update.

## If the update does not work

If the machine does not see the file, the most common causes are the file being inside a folder, the wrong file for the model, a file still compressed, or a USB stick the machine cannot read. Try a different, smaller USB stick, reformat it, and copy the file again.

If the update stops partway or the machine shows an error, try the update again from the start using the same steps. If the machine does not start normally after an update attempt, contact Brother support or an authorized service center rather than trying other files. They can confirm the right recovery steps for your model.

| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Machine does not show the file | File in a folder or still zipped | Copy the extracted file to the top level of the stick |
| Update screen does not appear | Wrong startup button or sequence | Recheck the instructions for your model |
| Error during update | Wrong file or unreadable stick | Redownload, use another stick, try again |
| Version unchanged | Update did not complete | Repeat the update and wait for the completion message |

## Keeping the machine running well after an update

After updating, test with a simple design on scrap fabric with your usual stabilizer to make sure everything works as expected. If your machine connects to an app, check whether the app also needs updating.

Software updates do not replace regular care. Clean lint from the bobbin area, change needles regularly and follow the oiling instructions in your manual, if any; see [how to clean and oil a sewing machine](https://threadandfeed.com/blog/how-to-clean-and-oil-a-sewing-machine). New to your machine? Our [guide to using a Brother embroidery machine](https://threadandfeed.com/blog/how-to-use-a-brother-embroidery-machine) covers the basics, and [best Brother embroidery machines](https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-brother-embroidery-machines) compares current models.

[Compare Brother embroidery machines](https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-brother-embroidery-machines)

## Frequently asked questions

**Will updating erase my saved designs?** Updates are generally meant to keep designs stored in memory, but it is wise to back up important designs to a USB stick or computer before any update.

**Can I update a Brother embroidery machine wirelessly?** Some newer models with wireless features may offer other update methods. Check the support page for your model. USB updates remain the standard method for many machines.

**How do I know if an update is available?** Compare the version on your machine's settings screen with the latest version on Brother's support page for your model.

**Can an update add new designs or hoop sizes?** Some updates add features, but they cannot change the hardware. The maximum embroidery field depends on the machine; see our [hoop size chart](https://threadandfeed.com/blog/embroidery-machine-hoop-size-chart).

## Machine guides for this topic

- https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-brother-embroidery-machines
- https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-embroidery-machine-for-beginners
- https://threadandfeed.com/best/best-sewing-and-embroidery-machine

## Sources

- [Brother support and downloads](https://support.brother.com/)