Firmware is software that gives low-level control of specific hardware of a device. BIOS, a firmware, consists of fundamental functions of a device and provides services to higher-level software. Choosing the perfect firmware for your device may be quite daunting. There are thousands of choices and recommendations available on the net. This just confuses you more regarding the perfect choice of firmware. Installing firmware comes with its own sets of complicated terms and acronyms. The sheer amount of tough terms and abbreviations will deter you from installing a new one. Routers usually come with firmware that is configured for a GUI format. Sometimes the initially installed firmware may not be enough and you can customize it according to your liking. In this article, we have narrowed down your choices to DD-WRT vs OpenWRT and listed the pros and cons.
We hope that this article on DD-WRT vs OpenWRT will help you choose the perfect router firmware.
DD-WRT vs OpenWRT (DD-WRT)
Let us start with DD-WRT. It is Linux-based and is one of the most famous firmware in the market. It is an open-source firmware. They support a lot of routers. Some routers even come with pre-installed DD-WRT. DD-WRT is a complete toolkit and contains a lot of features. You also get a lot of control as there are many options available. DD-WRT supports the most number of routers in the market, therefore, finding support for it becomes easier.
Now, you can take a look at the list of pros and cons we have created for you.
| PROS |
| Easiest custom router firmware to install and configure. |
| Excellent stability. |
| Very effective and powerful firewall- ensures high security. |
| You can configure VPNs easily. |
| Access control features that are more advanced than ordinary stock firmware. |
| Has a comprehensive QoS pre-packed. |
| Consists of Wake-on LAN- enables your device to wake up from remote locations. |
| CONS |
| The User Interface is a bit difficult and users find it challenging to navigate. |
| Router support is less comparatively. |
| Has a smaller community. |
DD-WRT vs OpenWRT (Open-WRT)
OpenWRT merges Open QWrt and LEDE. It is the oldest open-source router firmware. Open-WRT is a popular choice among free software users. It does not consist of non-free binary blobs. This firmware is also Linux-based. Open-WRT is not supported by many routers as they require non-free drivers to run. The hardware table has no functional Wi-Fi and contains some entries with partial support.
Open-WRT offers a lot more control to its users than DD-WRT. But, there is a drawback, you need to have prior knowledge to use it properly.
Now, Let’s look at the list of pros and cons of using Open-WRT, which we have created for you.
| PROS | CONS |
| Open-WRT supports a wide variety of routers. | It is not beginner-friendly. |
| It is the best choice for advanced users as they can take advantage of all the features available. | It has a difficult user interface. |
| It is the most stable custom firmware available with regular updates. | Cannot be navigated easily. |
| It also provides many customizable features and includes a command-line interface. | Configuration takes a lot of time due to a lot of features packed with it. |
| Open-WRT supports QoS and uncommon VPN features. | Users face a lot of trouble while using the versatile features of DD-WRT |
Other Alternatives
DD-WRT and Open-WRT are the best options available in the market. However, we have compiled a list of alternatives available if for any reason you want to go for something else.
Gargoyle– It offers a GUI and a command-line interface. Open-WRT is the base for Gargoyle. It supports mainly older routers that are Atheros- and Broadcom-based chipsets. It also has QoS, ad blocker, in-built VPN, etc.
Common Wireless- This creates a mesh network and uses existing routers. This is also Open-WRT-based and gives the same benefits such as mesh networking built-in.
HyperWrT- This firmware is designed for routers such as Linksys WRT and WRT54GS. It gives a power boost.
Sabai OS- This is based on a firmware named Tomato. It is pre-flashed with Sabai’s VPN routers and has all the major features, for example, QoS, DMZ, bridging, etc.
Also read: What Is Airtel Wifi Pack And How Customers Can Use In Airtel Wifi Zones
Conclusion
As we have already mentioned, DD-WRT and Open-WRT are the best choices if you are thinking of installing new firmware. The list of pros and cons will help you decide which firmware you want to go for. Whichever firmware you decide to choose, do make sure that it is compatible with your router. Before, you install new firmware, note the firmware you use in case you need to restore this firmware.
