How to Update a Garmin Forerunner Watch

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

The Garmin Forerunner is a series of sport watches produced by Garmin. Most models use the Global Positioning System (GPS), and are targeted at road runners and triathletes. Keeping your watch up to date ensures the watch tracks your progress and personal goals as accurately and seamlessly as possible.

This guide will take you through common ways to keep your Garmin Forerunner up to date.

Garmin Forerunner.

2. Update from Watch

  1. Press the Run button.
Garmin Forerunner with run button selected.


  1. Press Menu (down arrow button).
Garmin Forerunner with down arrow button selected.


  1. Use the Down arrow button (1) until you reach Settings, then press the Run button (2).
Garmin Forerunner with Settings selected on screen.


  1. Use the Down arrow button (1) until you reach System, then press the Run button (2).
Garmin Forerunner with System selected on screen.


  1. Use the Down arrow button (1) until you reach Software Update, then press the Run button (2).
Garmin Forerunner with Software Update selected on screen.


  1. If your device has an update available, it will prompt you to install, press the Run button.
Garmin Forerunner with Install Now selected on screen.


  1. Your device will begin installing the update and will restart when complete.
Garmin Forerunner with update install progress on screen.

3. What's next?

4. Update via Garmin Express Software

  1. Download and install the Garmin Express software for your PC or Mac from the Garmin website.
Garmin Express download on Garmin website. Screenshot.
  1.  
  2. Launch the Garmin Express software.
  3. Click the Get Started button.
  4. Connect your device to your computer with the provided USB cable when prompted.
Garmin Express software installation with prompt to plug in device, ANT stick or memory card. Screenshot.


  1. When Garmin Express has detected the device you've plugged in, it will identify it for you. Click Add Device.
Garmin Express software installation with detected Garmin device and Add Device button highlighted. Screenshot.


  1. From here, you will be prompted to Sign In or Create an Account for Garmin Connect. Sign in with an existing account if you have one, or complete the necessary steps to create an account.
Garmin Express software installation screen with Create an Account and Sign in buttons. Screenshot.


  1. Once logged in, your device may or may not have a couple of initial setup steps to complete if this is the first time you have used the Garmin Express software.
  2. Once initial setup is complete, you will be presented with a status screen for your device. If an update is available, you will be prompted to install it.
Garmin Express software status screen. Screenshot.

5. What's next?