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.

WiFi at home : Take precautions

1. Accessing WiFi at home is no more limited to tech geeks as the simple configuration has made it accessible to even a layman who hardly has any know how of how it works and what are the dangers floating around if he goes with the default settings.The two year back case of a hacker emailing from an open WiFi account in Mumbai reflects the deep dangers associated with such mishaps.Following are a set of desirable config changes any WiFi account holder at home and office whould take care of while configuring.....

Step 1: Change the default password

Step: 2: Change the default IP address

Step 3: Disable the DHCP service

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) enables remote computers connected to the router to obtain an IP address and join the network without needing to know the IP and router address information. This is a simple and effective way of keeping intruders away. As far as possible, set up the computers on your network with static IP addresses. If you still want to use DHCP to make your own configuration easier, restrict the number of DHCP IP users to the number of computers on your network. For example, if you have five laptops running on the network, limit the DHCP IP addresses to 5 from the default 50.

Step 4: Restrict the network mode

Step 5: Change the default SSID

Step 6: Opt for WPA2 or PSK security over WEP

Step 7: Enable the MAC Filter

Step 8: Use the router’s firewall

Step 9: Use Internet Access Policies

Step 10: Disable remote administration

Step 11: Switch off the router when not in use

Step 12: Disconnect the Internet when not needed

Step 13: Position your router carefully

Step 14: Update the router firmware

Step 15: Scan for signal leaks from time to time

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