Nikon D780 Firmware Update Version 1.11 Released (December 2025)

Nikon has released firmware version 1.11 for the D780 DSLR camera, addressing important security enhancements for wireless connectivity features. As a photographer who has handled numerous firmware updates over the years, I understand the hesitation many users feel about updating their camera’s software. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this update, from what’s changed to step-by-step installation instructions.

The latest firmware for the Nikon D780 is version 1.11, released as a security-focused update that strengthens wireless connection protocols. This update specifically modifies default encryption keys and password settings when restoring factory defaults, ensuring your camera’s wireless features remain secure against potential unauthorized access.

This security update represents Nikon’s commitment to maintaining the D780’s reliability in an increasingly connected photography ecosystem. Wireless features have become essential for modern workflows, making these security enhancements crucial for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what changes version 1.11 brings, how to safely prepare your camera for the update, and detailed installation steps that minimize risk. I’ll also cover troubleshooting common issues based on real user experiences from photography forums.

What’s New in Version 1.11?

Firmware version 1.11 for the Nikon D780 is specifically focused on security improvements for wireless connectivity. While it may not add new features or shooting modes, these changes are vital for protecting your camera’s wireless functions.

The primary change in version 1.11 involves the modification of default wireless connection settings. When you restore your camera to factory defaults, the encryption keys and passwords displayed for wireless connections will now use updated, more secure values.

This change addresses potential security vulnerabilities in the previous default settings. While Nikon hasn’t disclosed specific threats, such updates typically respond to discovered weaknesses in wireless encryption protocols that could potentially be exploited.

For photographers who frequently use wireless transfer features, remote control applications, or connect to mobile devices, this update provides peace of mind knowing your connections are better protected. The changes are transparent to users – you’ll notice no difference in how the wireless features work, only that they’re more secure behind the scenes.

It’s worth noting that this update doesn’t alter any of the D780’s core photography features. Auto-focus performance, image quality, buffer depth, and video capabilities remain unchanged. This is purely a security maintenance update, similar to those you receive for your computer’s operating system or smartphone.

Before You Update: Essential Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a successful firmware update. Based on community experiences and best practices, following these steps will minimize the risk of update failures and ensure a smooth process.

First, check your battery level. The D780 requires a fully charged battery or, at minimum, a battery with 80% charge. I’ve seen updates fail when users attempted the process with partially charged batteries, potentially leaving the camera in an unusable state that requires professional service.

Next, prepare a formatted memory card. Use a card that you’ve recently formatted in the camera itself – not in your computer. This ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of file system errors. The card should have at least 50MB of free space, though most modern cards have vastly more capacity.

Back up your custom settings if you’ve invested time in configuring your D780. While firmware updates typically preserve user settings, some community members have reported settings being reset after updates. Navigate to the menu and save your settings to a memory card using the Save/load settings option.

Finally, ensure you have a stable internet connection for downloading the firmware file. The download size is relatively small (around 20-30MB), but a stable connection prevents corrupted downloads that could cause installation failures.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide In 2025

Follow these detailed steps to install firmware version 1.11 on your Nikon D780. This process typically takes 10-15 minutes from download to completion.

1. Download the Firmware: Visit Nikon’s official Download Center and search for D780 firmware version 1.11. Select your operating system (Windows or Mac) and download the file. Avoid third-party sites that may host modified files.
2. Extract the Download: The downloaded file will be compressed. Double-click to extract it, revealing the actual firmware file named “F-D780-V111W.bin” for Windows or “F-D780-V111M.bin” for Mac.
3. Prepare the Memory Card: Insert your formatted memory card into the computer using a card reader. Create a folder on the card’s root directory named “NIKON” if it doesn’t already exist. Inside that folder, create another folder named “D780”. Copy the firmware file into this D780 folder.
4. Insert Card in Camera: Safely eject the memory card from your computer and insert it into the D780’s card slot. Ensure the camera is powered off during insertion.
5. Access Firmware Menu: Power on the camera and press the MENU button. Navigate to the setup menu (wrench icon), then select “Firmware version” from the menu options.
6. Initiate Update: The camera will display the current firmware version and the update version available. Select “Update” and confirm when prompted. The screen will show a progress bar – this is the critical phase where you must not interrupt power.
7. Wait for Completion: The installation process takes approximately 3-5 minutes. The camera will display “Updating firmware…” and may restart automatically. Do not turn off the camera, remove the battery, or touch any buttons during this time.
8. Verify Update: Once complete, the camera will display the new firmware version. Power cycle the camera (turn off and on) to ensure all systems load the new firmware properly.

Verifying Successful Installation In 2025

After the update completes, it’s crucial to verify that the installation was successful and your camera is functioning properly. I recommend following these verification steps before your next shoot.

First, confirm the firmware version by revisiting the firmware menu. The camera should now display version 1.11 as the current version. If it still shows 1.10 or earlier, the update failed and you’ll need to repeat the process.

Test your wireless features to ensure they’re working correctly with the new security settings. Connect to your smartphone via SnapBridge or establish a Wi-Fi connection with your computer. The connection process should work normally, though you may need to re-pair devices due to updated encryption.

Review your camera settings. If any settings were reset during the update, restore them from your backup or reconfigure them manually. Pay special attention to custom button assignments, autofocus settings, and image quality parameters that are critical to your workflow.

Take a few test shots to verify basic camera functionality. Check autofocus performance, exposure metering, and image playback. While firmware updates shouldn’t affect core photography functions, verification ensures everything is working as expected.

Finally, format your memory card in the camera to remove the firmware file. This prevents accidentally attempting the update again and frees up space for your photos.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While firmware updates typically proceed smoothly, issues can arise. Based on community reports and my experience with Nikon cameras, here are solutions to common problems.

If the camera displays “Update failed” or similar error message, first check your battery level. Low battery during installation is the most common cause of failures. Charge the battery fully and restart the update process from the beginning.

For cameras that freeze during the update, patience is key. Some users report the progress bar stopping for extended periods, but the update is still processing. Wait at least 10 minutes before taking action. If the camera remains unresponsive, remove and reinsert the battery (after waiting 30 seconds), then restart the camera to check if the update completed.

If the camera won’t recognize the firmware file, verify the file location and name. The file must be in the correct folder structure (NIKON/D780/) and should not be renamed. Ensure you’re using the correct file for your region and that it wasn’t corrupted during download.

Wireless connection issues after updating typically relate to the new encryption keys. Delete the camera from your paired devices list and re-establish connections. This forces both devices to negotiate new secure connections using the updated protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

Installing firmware version 1.11 on your Nikon D780 is a straightforward process when you follow the proper preparation and installation steps. This security update, while not adding exciting new features, plays a crucial role in protecting your wireless connections and maintaining your camera’s security.

Based on my experience managing firmware updates across multiple camera systems, the key success factors are patience and preparation. Don’t rush the process, ensure your battery is fully charged, and follow each step methodically. The 15 minutes you invest in this update will provide peace of mind knowing your camera’s wireless features are secure.

Remember to download firmware only from Nikon’s official website to avoid potentially malicious files. The official Download Center ensures you’re getting legitimate, tested firmware that won’t harm your camera.

After updating, take some time to familiarize yourself with any changes in wireless functionality. The improved security measures are designed to be transparent, but establishing new connections may require re-pairing your devices. This small inconvenience is a worthwhile trade-off for enhanced security.