[Yhawk87]

Attempting to upload initial factory-to-dd-wrt.chk file fails, with error "firmware is incorrect."

Using Netgear 6700v3, reset using GUI and attempted again using 30/30/30 method reset.

Any suggestions?

[egc]

Have you found the install guide:
https://forum.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=316399

Try to use a non chromium browser.

[kernel-panic69]

Which specific file are you trying to flash? There are some that may not work, regardless of browser choice. I generally use IE, FF ESR / FF ESR Portable, Pale Moon, or Safari.

[blkt]

Pale Moon, Waterfox ( Classic 56 or 3rd Gen 78 ), Firefox ESR 78 or Release 85 ( 85 is YMMV & meh avoid )

Do not 30/30/30 this R6700v3 or any ARM based router! | https://wikidevi.wi-cat.ru/Netgear_R6700_v3

https://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/R6700v3/R6700v3_UM_EN.pdf

If a known working image does not flash, factory firmware might be locked.

See egc's install guide above.

[Yhawk87]

Thanks all.

Attempted using the file from the 41328 build, which the install guide for the R6700v3 indicated was a stable, reliable build. From here:

ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2019/10-15-2019-r41328/netgear-r6700v3/

Still no luck logging in from Waterfox browser. Still get the "this firmware is incorrect" error upon upload.

I was able to upload the base firmware from Netgear (which the router indicated was the same version as already loaded - v1.0.0.2_1.0.1).

[blkt]

Firmware v1.0.0.2_1.0.1 is for regular R6700, or v1, when I search.

R6700v3 search results from netgear are here, but keep in mind sort by date is broken.

[kernel-panic69]

Okay so is it a v1 or v3? You may be trying to flash v3 to a v1 (or v2). Might want to try flashing 02-17-2021-r45767 if it is not a v3, but indeed it is a v1. The label on the bottom of the router will definitely tell you whether or not it is a v2 or v3

[blkt]

First check bottom label or sticker under the router. I'm wondering if the wrong stock firmware is installed.

[Yhawk87]

You were correct, after looking more closely, it was a R6700v1. I got it used and believe the prior user installed the wrong firmware. I installed the correct stock firmware, then was able to successfully flash the files suggested by kernel-panic69.

Thanks all, problem solved!