But now, thanks to DD-WRT, it’s easier than ever to extend your home networks range with a few simple tweaks and a spare router. DD-WRT is a Linux based alternative OpenSource firmware for wireless routers and access points. Originally designed for the Linksys WRT54G series, it now runs on a wide variety of models. DD-WRT is one of a handful of third-party firmware projects, which are designed to replace manufactures’ original firmware with custom firmware offering additional features or functionality. In short, DD-WRT embeds Linux in your router and allows you to unlock your router’s potential to broadcast a stronger signal, manage network traffic, remotely access all your home computers, and a whole lot more. Also, the setup is easy and completely free. To supercharge your router, all you need is a supported router (click here to see if your model is supported) and the DD-WRT firmware. This database will tell you your router is one of four things:
Supported, which means you can install DD-WRT. This is signified by a green “yes.” A work in progress, meaning you can’t install DD-WRT right now but people are working on making it work. This is signified by a yellow “wip.” Possible in theory, but no one is working on it, meaning you can’t install DD-WRT. This is signified by a red “no.” Impossible to install, because of hardware limitations, meaning you can’t install DD-WRT. This is signified by a grey “not possible.”
Just select the latest stable build related to your gear and follow the prompts. Given below are the steps involved in installing DD-WRT (Note: Depending on your router, installation of DD-WRT varies but the general instructions tend to stay the same.). Here’s how it usually works: Again, depending on the router you select, these instructions will differ. If you need to do anything special, then DD-WRT will include specific instructions for your router. Therefore, ensure that you read them. With DD-WRT successfully installed, reconnect to your network over Ethernet or Wi-Fi (with a new network SSID of dd-wrt) and visit your admin page. In most cases, it will still live at the same address as its predecessor. For example, if you went to https://192.168.1.1 to upload the DD-WRT firmware, go there again. DD-WRT may request a username and password, which by default is root/admin (if that is the case then you should change this). Newer versions will ask you to select your own. After logging in, you will see the DD-WRT admin page. You are ready to get started now! You may need to allow half an hour or more for the DD-WRT firmware to install and configure, so be patient. Once DD-WRT is up and running you should be able to boost your wireless signal. Source: Lifehacker
