What the appliance detected
Detected condition
The washer is downloading or installing software; dn is an update-status message rather than a normal repair fault code.
What may contribute
Possible causes
- A SmartThings software update started automatically or manually on a supported Wi-Fi washer.
- A Samsung update dongle is installing software on a supported model.
- If dn remains far longer than the documented update process or the washer does not recover, the update may have failed and Samsung support may be needed.
Start conservatively
Safe preliminary checks
Work in order and stop whenever a step is not supported by the documentation for your model.
Confirm an update was expected
- Record the full model number and whether an update was started in SmartThings or with an official Samsung update dongle.
- If dn appeared unexpectedly, check the exact model support page or SmartThings before assuming the washer has a hardware fault.
Do not interrupt the update
- Leave the washer connected to power and do not operate the controls while Samsung indicates that software is being installed.
- Keep a mobile hotspot or Wi-Fi connection available if the documented update method depends on it.
Allow the documented process to finish
- Samsung says the washer may be unresponsive while updating and should return to normal operation after the software installation completes.
- For a dongle update, follow the official indicator-light and removal sequence exactly rather than disconnecting it early.
Escalate a failed or stuck update
- If the update reports failure, follow Samsung's exact retry instructions for that update method once.
- If the washer will not recover, repeatedly fails the update, or remains unusable, contact Samsung support rather than experimenting with power interruptions or service menus.
Actions not recommended
- Do not unplug the washer, switch off its breaker, or remove an update dongle while an update is actively installing.
- Do not open panels, enter undocumented service modes, or use unofficial firmware to clear dn.
- Do not treat dn alone as proof that a control board or another component has failed.
When to stop and request service
- The documented update fails repeatedly or the washer remains unusable after Samsung's supported retry procedure.
- The washer does not return to normal operation after the official update process has clearly completed.
- A separate electrical, leak, smoke, burning-odor, or mechanical hazard is present.
Documented source
Official information reviewed
Our summary is based on manufacturer support material and stays within the limits of that material.
Samsung Support
How to update the software on your Samsung washing machine
Source reviewed by Appliance Help HQ: September 23, 2026.
Appliance Help HQ is an independent informational site and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Samsung.
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