To understand DD-WRT, we need to look at the firmware first. If you use a home or business router to get online, it almost certainly uses firmware, which is software written to control the hardware of a specific device.
This is usually done by the manufacturer so you can set up and configure your device, such as creating a Wi-Fi network. And most users are happy to leave it there, running the stock firmware – but it has its drawbacks.
Manufacturers don’t always put a lot of effort into designing efficient firmware. In the worst cases, features can be eliminated or updates stopped, forcing you to upgrade to a new router.
DD-WRT: How to get started
Problems like this are on the mind of German developer Sebastian Gottschall – who goes by the handle ‘BrainSlayer’, and helped found the DD-WRT project. Brainslayer and his development team originally chose “DD” to display the license plates for Dresden, where he and the others are based. “WRT” comes from the Linksys WRT54G router, which was popular at the time..The idea was simple: create a flexible and powerful open-source alternative firmware for routers.
Since its launch on January 22, 2005, DD-WRT is now supported by many routers. While it’s not the only Linux-based, open-source router firmware available (competitors include Tomato and OpenWrt) it remains one of the most popular given its wide support, extensive features and easy-to-use web interface.
DD-WRT: Advantages
For those who are compatible router and some technical know-how, switching to DD-WRT firmware offers great advantages. Its main purpose is to revive old routers that are no longer supported by the manufacturer. Being an open-source firmware, it is maintained by the DD-WRT community. So, at least no one person or company can decide unilaterally that your router is obsolete.
DD-WRT also has many options that are usually offered by manufacturers. It includes support for all WAN standards and improved router frequencies for a more stable connection between your devices and provider.
A better control of the Quality of Service (QoS) allows you to favor different types of traffic or traffic to a particular device. For example, if you have a home media server that streams videos, you give it priority over other devices for a smooth stream.
DD-WRT is also fully compatible with IPv6 addresses. While most of the internet still uses IPVv4, at least you have the option of future proofing your device.
DD-WRT also has excellent support for VPN services, unlike many routers that do not do this by default. By connecting your router to a VPN, every device on the network will automatically route its connection through the VPN. DD-WRT supports the most modern security VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard.
Another popular use of DD-WRT routers is to extend existing Wi-Fi networks. The easiest way to do this is to set up the router as a Wi-Fi extender, although the DD-WRT Wiki says that “mesh” networking is also supported. We have our guide covered Wi-Fi extenders vs. mesh routers: which is best for your home or office network?
DD-WRT: Disadvantages
Perhaps the biggest drawback is not technical, but one of increased cost. While DD-WRT is free and open source for private use, if you are a business, you need a commercial license to use it. It comes with add-ons such as bandwidth management tools to help manage traffic within your own network.
According to the DD-WRT Wiki, about 200 router types are currently supported. The website also maintains a database of compatible routers – though this is pinch-of-salt territory, as there are different builds of the same router model. However, if you want to use DD-WRT you will need to invest in a new, compatible router.
While installing (or flashing) new router firmware is not a complicated operation, you need some technical skills. If you have recently purchased your device, check that using third-party firmware does not violate the warranty.
Without knowing how, there is a risk of ‘bricking’ your device, where the firmware installation fails but the router cannot be reset to its previous state. The DD-WRT Wiki has some advice for this, as it’s usually possible to reset your router to factory settings, regardless of what firmware it’s running.
The ‘Flash Router’ at least offers an option for running DD-WRT without doing it yourself (or bringing in an expert). These third party devices, such as Asus RT-AC5300 AC5300 DD-WRT FlashRouter, comes with firmware preinstalled.
DD-WRT: Final thoughts
It’s a clever solution to a real problem – but DD-WRT may not be right for you if you’re not comfortable flashing firmware to a compatible device. Besides, for many users, the router’s stock firmware has most of the features needed.
But there is no question that if you have the skills and a compatible router you should seriously consider benefiting from all that DD-WRT has to offer – especially home users, who can get it for free. .