DD-WRT : Linux based Alternative OpenSource Firmware

1.   After we have heard and seen over last few years the rise of Open Source and their imminent threat to Mac and Windows!!!!,now I read about  , a Linux based alternative Open Source firmware suitable for a great variety of WLAN routers and embedded systems.

2.    This open-source firmware was developed for specific router models and is used as a replacement for the factory default firmware. This modification lifts restrictions built-in to the default firmware, providing advanced capabilities to make Internet and Home Network more controllable and versatile.Manufacturers develop routers for non-technical users in mind, making them simple and easy to use, while limiting their effectiveness as a web-access gateway. DD-WRT transforms a personal-class router with limited functionality into a powerful, multi-use, business-class router. With DD-WRT, a router's enterprise potential can be unlocked at a home user's price.

3.    The advantages offered are bought out below :

    - Stability of running a linux-based, non-proprietary firmware.
    - VPN (Virtual Private Network) passthrough capabilities.
    - Software support for the SD-Card hardware modification.
    - Advanced QoS (Quality of Service) controls for bandwidth allocation.
    - NAT (Network Address Translation) support.
    - Cycle router from the Administration settings.
    - Built-in DNS caching
    - Configure the router as a Wi-Fi hotspot using the integrated Chillispot          
    - Radius Authentication for additional wireless security.
    - VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) Support.
    - Create unique SSIDs (service set identifiers) when using multiple routers.

4.   But it is not a win win situation always,while flashing a router with DD-WRT is highly beneficial , the risks that are involved can sometimes outweigh the benefits . Flashing a router with DD-WRT can be risky and when done improperly, it may "brick" the router. For devices mainly used for private purposes, DD-WRT is freely available. Platforms used for commercial purposes require a paid license. Compared to the freely available version, the professional version also allows for configuration of the WLAN parameters, thus opening up the opportunity of creating e.g. reliable and powerful network infrastructures. Special demands can be fulfilled by specifically tailored versions of DD-WRT.