How do I update XMRig to the latest version?

To update XMRig, download the latest stable release from the official XMRig website or its official GitHub repository, then replace your old program files while keeping your settings. Stop mining first, back up your configuration, and check that the new version connects and mines correctly before deleting your backup.

Check your current version and installation

XMRig is a standalone mining program that runs on your computer, not inside your web browser. If you use a browser-mining service, these steps will not update that service.

You can find your current version near the top of XMRig’s startup output. You can also run xmrig --version in a terminal, the text window used to enter commands. On Windows, use .\xmrig.exe --version from PowerShell in your XMRig folder.

Before downloading anything, check how you originally installed it:

• Downloaded archive: Follow the manual replacement steps below.
• Package manager: Use the same package manager to update it. Its available version may lag behind the official release.
• Built from source: Download the new release’s source code and rebuild it using the current build instructions.

Check the official release page for the newest stable version. Avoid relying on a version number in an old tutorial.

Back up your settings and stop mining

Copy your existing XMRig folder somewhere safe. At minimum, save:

• config.json, the settings file commonly used by XMRig.
• Any .bat, .cmd, .ps1, or .sh startup scripts.
• Any custom service settings that launch XMRig automatically.

Your configuration may contain your wallet address, mining pool details, and CPU settings. A mining pool combines miners’ work and shares rewards. You will want those details preserved.

Stop XMRig normally. If it runs in a terminal, press Ctrl+C. If it runs as a background service, stop that service and make sure it will not immediately restart during the update.

Download and install the official release

Open the official XMRig website or the xmrig/xmrig repository on GitHub and find its releases. Choose the stable release package that matches your operating system and processor type.

Read the release notes for changes to settings, supported systems, or required software.

Mining software attracts fake downloads. Avoid sponsored download ads, unofficial “boosted” builds, and anyone asking for your wallet’s recovery phrase—the secret words that control your funds. XMRig does not need that phrase.

If the release provides a SHA-256 checksum, compare it with your downloaded file. A checksum is a digital fingerprint that helps you check whether a file matches the published download.

For a manual update:

1. Extract the new archive into a new folder.
2. Copy your saved configuration and startup scripts into it.
3. Keep the new release’s accompanying files together.
4. Update any shortcut or service path that points to the old folder.

Do not blindly disable antivirus protection. Mining programs can trigger warnings, but verify the download source before considering a narrow exception.

Restart and verify the update

Launch the new copy and check its startup output. Confirm that:

• The version number matches the release you downloaded.
• Your wallet address and pool are still correct.
• There are no configuration errors.
• The pool reports accepted shares—submitted pieces of mining work.

Let it run briefly and watch temperatures and stability. If problems appear, stop it and restore your previous folder while you investigate.

The bottom line

Keep your settings, install only an official release, and test before removing your backup. Updating XMRig can bring fixes and improvements, but it does not guarantee higher mining earnings.