How to Install DD-WRT on a Wireless Router
DD-WRT is firmware for wireless routers that turns an inexpensive wireless router into a router with advanced performance and features. Though simple to install, the procedure must be performed carefully. You'll need to flash your router to do the upgrade, which voids the warranty, and if done incorrectly the flash can cause your router to freeze so that it can't be recovered.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Router
-
1
Check the devices list at DD-WRT.com to make sure your router is supported.
-
2
Review the file version information to determine which version to use. The standard version should be appropriate for most routers.
-
-
3
Download the latest DD-WRT release from DD-WRT.com. Use tested versions only.
-
4
Extract the zipped file. Read all installation instructions. Compare the MD5 hash fingerprint of the downloaded firmware to the published hashes.
-
5
Turn off anti-virus and firewall software. Save information about bad flash recovery to your hard drive in case you lose your Internet connection.
-
6
Write down your current IP settings or take a screenshot of them by hitting "ctrl" and "printscrn" at the same time. Open Word or Wordpad. Click on "File," "Edit" and "Paste" to insert the screenshot in the file. Save the file.
-
7
Reset your router according to the router manufacturer's instructions. This is usually done through the router's web interface or by using the reset button.
Install the Firmware Upgrade
-
8
Disable wireless adapters until the flash is complete. Use a wired connection and an http protocol to run the firmware upgrade.
-
9
Open Internet Explorer. Type in the default router IP address of 192.168.1.1 in the browser address field.
-
10
Click the "Firmware Upgrade" tab. Hit the "Browse" button and find the DD-WRT bin file. Click "Upgrade."
-
11
Allow the upgrade to install. Don't close the browser or turn off the computer or router while the upgrade is running.
-
12
Wait 5 minutes after the confirmation page displays. Click "Continue."
-
13
Follow the manufacturer's directions to reset the router again.
-
1