Should i install dd wrt

It will be similar to simply repeating the overall installation process below, but using the specific "kill" file. Follow all the instructions precisely, or you may run into trouble. Incorrectly flashing can brick your router! Three methods of flashing are covered below: using the router's online interface Method 1 , via TFTP Method 2 , and with the Command Line Interface Method 3 - use this if wirelessly connected. These instructions are very generic.

TFTP is generally a safe method to flash many routers. However, it is not preferred method for flashing most devices. In the Hardware-specific section you may be advised to use this method if it is the preferred or only method for your brand or type of device.

Normally, the GUI flashing method should be used, as it is adequate for the vast majority of standard situations, but refer to the Hardware-specific section to be sure. Tftp is easy: if often requires one quick box uncheck and a quick click - then you are good to go.

It is great for instances when web GUI malfunctions or the router appears to be but is not bricked. Before diving in, there are a few things to know. Aside from this, we suggest downloading the manual and firmware for your router before getting started in case something goes wrong. DD-WRT firmware is designed to replace the stock firmware that comes installed on your router out of the box. It improves VPN support over almost any out-of-the-box firmware and removes a number of old vulnerabilities that many routers still have, such as WPS network security.

It also adds a huge amount of general networking options and tools that stock firmware almost never has. DD-WRT offers so many options, in fact, that it can actually be a bit overwhelming for some people.

As we mentioned, DD-WRT can be difficult to use and is largely geared toward knowledgeable power-users, but there are plenty of advantages that make the extra effort worth it. If you want to set up a VPN on your router , then a firmware upgrade is pretty much a necessity in many cases also check out our guide to the best VPN for routers. However, DD-WRT is a powerful tool for those who have the know-how to use it or the patience to learn. Flashing your router is the term used for the process of loading a new firmware onto it.

Step 1: Once your router is reset, plug it back into its power supply and connect to it from the computer you used to download the firmware earlier. You can connect either directly with an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi. Alternatively, check out our list of default usernames and passwords for routers. Step 3: Find the Firmware Upgrade section on your router — which is typically found under Administration or something similar — and click the Browse or Choose File button.

Select the firmware you downloaded earlier, then tell the firmware to upgrade. Again, only do this if you confirmed that this is the proper procedure while researching. Step 4: Patience is essential at this point. The firmware will upload to your router, which will then restart. Do not unplug it or turn it off until all the lights come on, which may take a while. Unplugging things too early could brick your router, so wait.

After your router reboots, you can begin configuring. If your connection relies on an Ethernet cable, browse to If you use Wi-Fi instead, bring up your wireless adapter and search for the network dd-wrt.

Make sure that you do not unplug your router and you have a backup power supply in case your location is plagued by power outages. The last thing you want is a bricked router. Part 2. After the DD-WRT firmware has been successfully installed on your router, reconnect your router through a wired or wireless medium. This address will be the same as when you first entered it. Change the username. DD-WRT may request you to input a username and password, which by default is username:root password: admin.

Changing to a new username and password is highly recommended. Part 3. Find the Wireless Channel you want to select and click on save. Even though the DD-WRT firmware can boost the wireless signal of your router by making your router transmit the signals more powerfully than its default capabilities, be sure not to overexert the router, as you will end up burning its components.

Click on the Advanced Wireless Settings option. You will be able to view a Tx Power setting.