What is wrong with the default firmware of the router, the question is interesting. Some people believe that everyone should have the freedom to manage software that runs on their devices, if necessary, to make the necessary changes for the better. An alternative firmware for routers will be just one of these solutions. The action reveals the potential of the equipment.
This third-party firmware comes with additional features such as bandwidth allocation, bandwidth quotas, parental controls, Wi-Fi wireless amplification, and password access.
Many consumers don’t think that software actually works on the equipment they buy in the store. Any router that is purchased is a device that distributes the Internet, and the software runs on it. Owners have the opportunity to run software from other sources, if it is designed to work on the device. An alternative firmware for routers allows you to use additional functions. At the same time, a convenient graphical interface for work is available.
Why use technology
First of all, if the user values the guarantee of his router, then the methods described below should not be used. Installing an alternative firmware for routers may void this warranty, so if the router was purchased for a lot of money, then it might be safer to just save the manufacturer’s firmware on the device. Otherwise, if a case arises for contacting the service for free repair or returning the equipment, they may be refused.
The first and main reason why the owner of the equipment may want to install an alternative firmware for the router is that functions are added, which, although possible on purchased consumer-level equipment, are unlikely, as the manufacturer decided not to add them for various reasons. They want the buyer to be able to easily and easily customize the equipment, and also because they sell much more expensive equipment to people who need these features.
Before answering the question of how to update the firmware of the router, you need to understand the advantages of this action:
- QoS (Quality of Service) allows some types of traffic to take precedence over others.
- Wireless connection.
- The ability to turn into a "hot" access point.
- Adding SNMP (monitoring protocol).
- Detailed diagnostic tools.
Which routers support mode
The question of how to update the firmware of the router is highly dependent on the brand and model of specific equipment. By far, the largest manufacturer of consumer wireless routers is Cisco (formerly Linksys). Most of the alternative firmwares are made for these models, since there are simply more of them in the world than any other type. But as they say, chipsets, which are the “brains” of routers, are also used in other models. The bottom line is that the user should check each firmware to find out which models it supports.
Warning: there is also the possibility that you can block the router during a flashing. It is worthwhile to make sure that there is a copy of the original version. It is not necessary to perform the operation on the new router, as this will invalidate the warranty.
Installation Details
Flashing the TP-Link router and other models is not a difficult task. The main thing is to know a specific version of the program and choose the appropriate model for this. The open source router software is also called custom router firmware, or aftermarket firmware, or alternative router firmware. These types of programs may be the best OS alternative for a stock router upgrade.
The firmware of the TP-Link router and other brands not only provides the best available security features, but also makes it possible to change them, since they are based on Linux. This is necessary in order to make the purchased router more advanced or add some additional functions in accordance with the requirements of the office or home.
Main advantages
Benefits of using Asus router firmware and other open source models:
- Deletes errors in stock firmware.
- Removes any government restrictions or backdoors used for espionage.
- You can edit the firmware code.
- Improved user interface.
- Allows you to expand the frequency functionality.
- VPN integration.
- Caching
- Support Telnet / SSH.
- Integration with Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Network stability.
- Advanced wireless modes.
- Vlan.
- Full control over network routing.
You can run these user programs on branded devices such as Linksys, Netgear, TP-Link, D-Link, ZyXEL.
The best software versions
Below we will consider a list of alternative firmware for Asus routers and equipment of other brands. If there is no specific model of the device, then the necessary information about support and work can be clarified on the official website of the software. The list of devices is constantly updated due to the appearance of new versions of equipment. According to the users and experts themselves, most modern models support such software changes.
Openwrt project
Such an alternative firmware for the Asus router is a kind of Linux operating system, which is one of the oldest routers on the market since 2004. It is designed for embedded devices for the network. This is not the only static firmware. It provides access to a file system that is open for recording through package management. As a rule, OpenWRT routers are supported by customer equipment (CPE), but in addition it can be run on home gateways, smartphones and personal computers (x86) to use them as network transmitters.
This free alternative firmware for TP-Link routers, which the user can configure and integrate for any application. The main components of this customizable firewall are Linux, util-linux, musl, and BusyBox.
Initially, OpenWrt only worked on the command line, and later a graphical interface was developed for the convenience of users. However, the router must have at least 8 MB of flash memory to work with the graphical interface, and 4 MB for the command line. This shows that a graphical user interface is optional. If users are familiar with the command line, all actions can be performed through it.
This is a very old but still working open source project, and therefore there are different user interfaces created by different communities. It also offers 3,500 additional software packages that can be installed using the opkg management system. For stable operation, 32 MB of RAM was required, but at least 64 MB is better.
Features of OpenWrt:
- High level of customization.
- IPv4 support.
- IPv6 support includes IPv6 native configuration (SLAAC, stateless DHCPv6, stateful DHCPv6, DHCPv6-PD), IPv6 transition technology (6rd, 6to4, 6in4, ds-lite, lw4o6, map-e), IPv6 configuration downward direction. Discovery of router, DHCPv6 (stateless) and DHCPv6-PD.
- Routing through iproute2, Quagga, BIRD, Babe.
- BATMAN, OLSR, and IEEE 802.11s capabilities of routing protocols.
- Wireless features such as multiplier, wireless access point, wireless bridge.
- Enhanced security.
- Stateful firewall, NAT, and port forwarding.
- Dynamically configured UPnP and NAT-PMP port forwarding protocols through upnpd.
- Load balancing.
- IP tunneling GRE, OpenVPN, pseudowire.
- Domain Name System (DNS) and DHCP through Dnsmasq, MaraDNS.
- Wireless Distribution System (WDS), including WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK / WPA2-PSK mixed mode encryption.
- OpenWrt supports any Linux hardware.
- Saving software packages for using the device.
DD-WRT
This is another popular alternative firmware for D-Link routers of the Linux-based OpenSource version. It was released in 2005 and borrowed the WRT in its name from the popular Linksys WRT54G series of routers because it was specifically designed for them at the time. The unit comes in various sizes and options: Micro (2 MB), Mini (4 MB), Nokaid (4 MB), Standard (4 MB), VOIP (4 MB), VPN (4 MB) and Mega (8 MB).
Megaversion, which requires 8 MB of free space, supports all DD-WRT features, such as:
- ChilliSpot.
- Web management through HTTPS.
- Support for MMC and SD cards.
- NoCat.
- OpenVPN.
- PPTP client.
- Radvd.
- RFlow (traffic information).
- Samba / CIFS Client.
- SIP router Milkfish.
- SNMP
- Secure Shell.
- Wiviz.
In the default state, DD-WRT lacks some features compared to OpenWRT. To solve this problem, it supports third-party builds to improve functionality. In addition, its tabbed user interface is very easy to use and can be used by any user. The owner of such software can even change the default color scheme of the device’s interface - blue and black. The shell also allows you to overclock the router.
In addition to the above functions, the alternative firmware of Zyxel routers provides the following features:
- Access control.
- Bandwidth Monitoring
- Quality of service.
- WPA / WPA2 (personal and corporate).
- Iptables firewall.
- Universal access for games.
- Wake-on-LAN, dynamic DNS.
- AnchorFree VPN.
- Wireless Access Point Configuration.
- Multiple SSIDs.
- Acceleration of frequencies.
- DD-WRT support for OpenVPN, WireGuard.
Tomato router
There are more modern programs for fine-tuning devices. Alternative firmware for the Asus RT-N16 router and earlier versions is perfect for signal amplification. There are many additional settings that expand the potential of the equipment.
Tomato is based on the HyperWRT router project, but unfortunately it stopped receiving updates in 2006, but Tomato keeps pace and continues to receive improvements. This is not completely open source code, but a free custom router firmware with beautiful aesthetically designed themes. You can see the widespread use of Ajax, as well as an SVG-based graphics bandwidth monitor.
It supports a wide range of older Linksys WRT54G series, Buffalo AirStation, Asus routers and Netgear WNR3500L. Linksys WRT54G / GS v5 or later WRT54G / GS models will not work with Tomato firmware. Not all types of devices support modern system settings. Therefore, it is important to check in advance how suitable signal converters are.
An alternative firmware for Zyxel Keenetic routers may contain an extended version, which has more than 200 applications. There are special modes for advanced users. With good community support, this router project is still booming. Just like the DD-WRt, Tomato has several modes to add extra functionality. The latest version of the software mode came out under the name FreshTomato.
Mod in beta version 2018.3, which was published on July 22, 2018, has a wide range of support functions, such as VPN, PPTP, USB support, SD card, VLAN, IPv6, 5 GHz band, overclocking, multilan and much more.
Key features of the program:
- Ajax based GUI.
- Graphics based on SVG.
- Access to the CLI (BusyBox) via Telnet or SSH (using Dropbear).
- DHCP server.
- Manage client bandwidth using QoS classes.
- Bandwidth statistics and graphics.
- DNS Forwarder (using Dnsmasq).
- Netfilter / iptables with customizable settings, IPP2P and l7-filter.
Wireless Modes:
- Access Point (AP): Wireless Client Station (STA).
- Wireless Ethernet Bridge (WET).
- Wireless Distribution System (WDS, also known as wireless bridging).
- Simultaneous access point and WDS (known as wireless repeat).
The program is also considered an alternative firmware for the Asus RT-14N router. There are integrated features specifically designed for this device model.
Gargoyle
The firmware of the Gargoyle router is based on OpenWrt, which is another free Linux software distribution. It is mainly intended for routers based on Broadcom or Atheros chipsets, for example, for the older Linksys WRT54G, Asus, and Netgear series. This is an interface designed for ease of use. Gargoyle has both a command line and a graphical user interface.
Key software features:
- Tor server and Tor client.
- Ad blocker.
- File Sharing, SMB, CIFS.
- VPN server and VPN client.
- Wi-Fi scheduled on on / off
- Bandwidth Monitoring
- Quotas and bandwidth limits.
- Quality of Service (QoS) with active congestion control.
- Block a site by hostname or IP address.
Updating the firmware of the router using this software will speed up the operation of the radio module. Additionally, it is proposed to configure security systems and disable directory services in the OS.
Prerequisites for the upgrade process
Naturally, as in any other project, people who want to upgrade their router will need to collect the necessary resources before starting work. There are several prerequisites, the first of which is a router that supports DD-WRT firmware.
The latter does not support all routers available for purchase from an electronics seller, so it’s worth checking the information. Finally, you need to download the latest bin and DD-WRT installation files. After flashing the router, it will be necessary to check for operability by running tests available on the Internet to check the connection speed. In the event that deviations in the operation of the equipment are found, it is worth resetting its program to the factory settings.
How to flash a router using DD-WRT
The instructions below explain how to install TP-Link and other brands of firmware using DD-WRT. However, these are general steps that may vary slightly between routers. However, since most devices are the most common for home use, the description of the order will be generalized.
Step 1: Reset Router
Key actions:
- The very first thing to do is the so-called reset of parameters and settings. If you look at the back of the router, you will see a small reset button.
- It is tiny to prevent it from being accidentally pressed, so you need a paper clip or pencil.
- To perform a reset, you must first make sure that the router is connected and turned on.
- Next, you must press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds.
- Then, making sure the reset button is still pressed, turn off the power of the router and wait another 30 seconds.
- Finally, while continuing to hold down the reset button, reconnect the power to the router and wait another 30 seconds.
It is extremely important to keep the reset button pressed all the time, otherwise the reset procedure will not be performed.
Step 2: Login to the web interface
Key actions:
- To enter the router’s web interface, you must ensure that Javascript is enabled. As a note, some browsers have difficulty loading the web interfaces of various routers. If the administration page does not load properly, you just need to use a different browser.
- In addition, the user must know the default IP address of the router. To open the configuration interface, enter the IP address in the top line of the browser, followed by http: // (for example, http://192.168.1.1).
- Instead of connecting wirelessly or through another network device (such as a switch), it is highly recommended that you connect the computer directly to the router via an Ethernet cable.
- You should verify that the latter is connected to the LAN port of the router, and not to the WAN port.
- If the IP address of the router is not known, simply enter “Model_XYZ by default - IP address” into a Google search. In models of modern devices, the default username and password are usually “admin” by default.
Again, credentials vary from vendor to vendor, so just enter the Google default credentials query.
Step 3: Download DD-WRT Firmware
Before downloading the DD-WRT firmware, the following important warning should be read:
"In the installation procedure, it is imperative that users do not interrupt the process during the firmware of the router. This may" block "the router, rendering it useless. Interrupting the installation process may make it impossible to download new firmware or reset to factory default settings."
Simply put, you cannot do anything from the following list until the process completes:
- Shutting down the computer.
- Close the web browser.
- Power off the router.
- Disconnect the Ethernet cable.
The process usually completes within two minutes and can be checked as soon as the new DD-WRT login page is accessible from the browser.
It should be borne in mind that each router has its own configuration interface. Nevertheless, the configuration parameters for the firmware of the router are almost always contained in the Administration section.
The following should be done:
- Enter the router configuration interface.
- Click on the “Administrator” tab, sometimes called “Administration”.
- Click “Select File” and browse the directories to find the DD-WRT installation file.
If it’s hard to find the firmware update settings, you need to refer to the router manual, which can be accessed online.
Step 4. Enter the DD-WRT interface
During installation, the indicators on the router usually flash (again, it depends on the model).
Upon completion, a pop-up window should appear indicating the completed processes. Wait about 5 minutes before continuing.
Waiting is a preventative measure that helps prevent inappropriate user intervention situations.
Finally, after waiting for 5 minutes, you can click the Continue button if the invitation to log into the system does not appear. The default IP address should be 192.168.1.1. for most router models, but, again, it may differ from different manufacturers and models.
Conclusion
The most important thing to keep in mind is not to interrupt the update process. After completing the above steps, reprogramming the router on DD-WRT should be an easy task that takes only 15-20 minutes.
Nevertheless, flashing the router is only the beginning. After the upgrade, you can fully reveal the potential of the router and take advantage of it with additional features and capabilities.
The first thing that a person is likely to want to configure is a VPN tunnel between sites. This will protect every device connected to the wireless network using VPN encryption.
And also unlock geo-restricted sites. Moreover, users can configure the DD-WRT router to:
- VPN server.
- File server.
- Network sharing device.
Again, if the steps described above seem too intimidating or complicated, then in fact there are practically no problems. The main thing is not to touch those values and parameters during configuration, about which the user knows nothing at all, so as not to harm the system and equipment.