TechInfoDepot:DD-WRT/Installation

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Source as of 23:39, 22 December 2009

Installation @ dd-wrt

Installing DD-WRT on a router in most cases is almost as simple as installing a program onto your computer. Installing programs on a router, known as firmware, are achieved by a method called flashing. This article helps you determine which installation process is for you on your supported router, as well as giving router suggestions and information about flashing each one.


Choosing the Correct Firmware - Extremely Important

Is Your Router Supported?

For a list of devices working with DD-WRT, please see wiki page Supported Devices, or Hardware Database (As of fall 2009 the Hardware Database is still in Beta).

If your device is supported, you may find specific information in the Hardware-Specific section for your modem. However, to avoid breaking your modem, please finish reading this entire section on Choosing the Correct Firmware first. You will then want to follow what is written for your particular device -clock.

Before You Download, Upgrade, or Flash

Before you try to take any actions, including loading any firmware to your router....read the English Broadcom Forum Announcement entitled Peacock Thread It contains more information than just for those that having problems. Unfortunately, skipping this step leads many to brick (break) their routers.

Start there... do some research... then ask questions. Don't just load V24-Final or SP1. (read the English Broadcom Forum Announcements referenced above to find out why). The user-friendly dd-wrt download page [[1]] will help you identify the correct "killer" and dd-wrt firmware versions (as applicable) for your device. However, you must use the peacock thread and use the information in the Hardware-Specific section below to accurately identify your hardware and not create a problem that renders your modem useless.

Downloading Your DD-WRT Firmware

  • Some newer routers are not supported by the latest stable release. Check the Supported Devices list for the minimum required DD-WRT version for your device. You may need to use an SVN or experimental build.
  • Use the brand-specific information in the Hardware-Specific section to accurately identify which model you have. Start with the main brand heading (ie, "Linksys"). Use that information - instead of just going by what model you think you have - clock.
  • You will need to save a number of files (firmware, instruction pages for offline work, etc). Starting a folder for this project before downloading anything is advisable - clock.
  • Download the latest stable release from the DD-WRT Downloads page (or secure version).
  • Depending on your specific needs, you may need more than one download - such as a "killer" version, which must be installed prior to the dd-wrt firmware. The search function should bring up both. If instructions are provided for your modem in the Hardware-Specific section below, check that to see what is needed. Again, the peacock thread will give you important information on why choosing the wrong size can completely break your modem - clock).
  • Ensure you are using the correct version of the firmware (again, the search function on the download page above should be accurate if took appropriate action to correctly identify your modem; only download firmware from that page - clock.
    • For a comparison of the builds, see File Versions.
    • Updating through the Web GUI (ie, the modem's online interface) means you need to use the _generic version.
    • Use the _mini version when upgrading from original Linksys firmware. You need the _micro version if your hardware has 2 MB of flash (WRT54G v5 through v8 for instance). Use the "_mini" firmware if your hardware has 4 MB or more of flash (WRT54GL for instance). (Again, use the download page's search function for help here - clock).
  • Read the changelog and all other information files on the download pages. They contain important information!
  • If you downloaded a .zip file, then extract the archive. (If it is a .bin file, leave it alone - clock).
  • Confirm a good download by comparing the MD5 hash fingerprint of the firmware you downloaded with the published checksums. See Hashes & Checksums for further info and instructions.

"Flashing" Your Modem with dd-wrt Firmware

Flashing is the process of replacing the existing firmware on your modem with new firmware. Some like to think of it as installing software. Although this is not entirely accurate, it gives a basic idea of what is going on - clock.

The most important aspect of this section to absorb is the precautions. People kill modems constantly by not following these advisories. Please take the time to learn and absorb them - clock.

Below, three methods of flashing will be covered: using your modem's online interface (#Method 1: Flashing with Web GUI; #Method 2: Flashing with TFTP; and #Method 3: Flashing with Command Line. Your modem may dictate what you use. After reading this overview, please see the Hardware-Specific instructions to clarify what is best for your modem - clock.

If you do not already have a dd-wrt firmware version on your modem, you may have to run a "kill" firmware program on your modem first. You should be able to find this using the search function described (in the previous section) for your specific device. The process of installing that firmware is probably covered in the Hardware-Specific section below under your device. It will be similar to simply repeating the processes outlined below for that specific "kill" file - clock. .

Precautions

Follow all the instructions precisely, or you may run into trouble. Incorrectly flashing can brick your router!

  • For the initial flash from the Linksys firmware, do not use Firefox, use IE to flash the router (even OS X IE works). Once DD-WRT is running, you can use any browser you like to administer or even flash the router.
  • Do NOT use a wireless connection to upload firmware. Use a wired connection. It is recommended that you disable any wireless adapters on your system to ensure that none are used for the transfer.
  • Do NOT flash your firmware over an SSL (HTTPS) connection. Make sure you are using HTTP.
  • Disable your anti-virus-software, as a false-positive virus detection could interrupt the upload.
  • If you need to use TFTP to upload firmware, disable your software firewall first.
  • You will not have internet access through the router during the process of replacing the firmware. We recommend you save this webpage and the Recover from a Bad Flash and FAQ pages to your hard drive (use File->Save As, *NOT* a bookmark). This will allow you to review the information offline in the event that something goes wrong.
  • Do not forget to make note of your current settings, especially if you have static IP addresses. A quick way of doing this is to take screenshots of your current configuration screens.
    • It can be essential to record your current WAN MAC address. Some ISPs do not allow an immediate change of the routing hardware and changing the firmware changes the MAC address.
  • Have a secondary router or internet connection available while experimenting with your router's firmware, to expedite any trouble shooting and remove the risk of becoming stranded.
    • If you have a cable modem which connects to your router with ethernet, you can plug your PC straight into the modem should you have any problems. Your PC will be assigned your external IP with DHCP, and you will be on the net. Remember to use a software firewall.

Method 1: Flashing with Web GUI

The following instructions are very general and apply mostly to Linksys routers. Check for hardware-specific instructions in the Hardware-Specific section.

  1. Reset your modem
    1. Use Hard reset or 30/30/30.
    2. While not as preferable (this may cause problems down the line) you can reset to Factory Defaults instead.
      1. If you do decide to restore defaults, if you do not know the IP address, username, or password of your router, you will need to use the reset button (this does not appear to be referring to a Hard reset or 30/30/30; this appears to be referring to a simple 30-second reset - clock). Be careful when using this method! Apparently if you have OpenWRT already on your router the reset button may not function as it is assumed here and may actually brick your router! Research the functionality of your current firmware to be safe.)
      2. Again, if you decide to restore defaults, if you already have a version of dd-wrt installed, and you know the IP address, username, or password of your router, you can use this method (other modems may require different instructions):
        • Follow the instructions in the next section to log in to the Web GUI.
        • Click the "Administration" tab.
        • Click the "Factory Defaults" sub-tab.
        • Select "Yes".
        • Click the "Save Settings" button.
        • A new page will open, click "continue".)
  2. Log on to the Web GUI (if you have not done so already).
    1. To use the Web interface, you will need to have Javascript enabled with any security restrictions disabled. Some versions of the Linksys firmware Web GUI have trouble with different browsers (some don't work with Firefox, some don't work with Safari). If the Web GUI is giving errors, try switching to a different browser.
    2. Type in the IP address of the router (typically, the default is 192.168.1.1, especially with Linksys) into the address bar of your browser. (If you do not know the router IP address, you can attempt to obtain it).
    3. You will be prompted for username and password. (If your modem already has a DD-WRT versions starting with 2006-Feb-28, the default username is root. Prior versions have a blank username by default. For Linksys firmware, the default username can be left blank or set to anything. For both DD-WRT and Linksys firmware, the default password is admin. Search online for other defaults on other modems).
  3. Upload the Firmware.
    1. WARNING:It is VERY important that you not interrupt the setup while the router is being flashed and rebooted. Do not turn off the computer, close the web browser, or turn off the router during this process! (I usually just take a step back, and turn my head away so I don't breathe on it for these crucial 2 minutes).
    2. This section is written for a dd-wrt web GUI. Your modem's GUI's operations may be different. Please see the previous comment about the possible need for "kill" firmware before your dd-wrt installation. This section may not work for your modem as written. Please see the Hardware-Specific section for information on your specific modem's needs.
      1. First do a hard reset on the unit that DD-WRT is to be loaded onto.
      2. You should be in the Web GUI of the router. Go there now (as discussed above).
      3. Click the "Administration" tab
      4. Click the "Firmware Upgrade" sub-tab.
      5. (Only applicable when DD-WRT is already installed.) Choose the option to Reset to Defaults after flashing.
      6. Click the "Browse" button and select the DD-WRT .bin file you downloaded and confirmed.
      7. Click the "Upgrade" button.
      8. The router will take a few minutes to upload the file and flash the firmware. During this time, the power light will flash.
      9. A new page will open confirming that the upload was successful (Project:DD-WRT/Installation#Possible errors if not). Now wait about 5 minutes before clicking "Continue".
      10. Lastly, do another hard reset on the unit.
      11. If flashed successfully you will now be able to access the DD-WRT web interface at 192.168.1.1 (again, that is default for most Linksys, etc modems; does not apply to all modems. Check your modem's IP before you start this process - clock).
  4. Possible Errors with Uploading Firmware
    1. [Comment added 2007/03/27 by staylor] Or, you won't be at the DD-WRT web interface I have a WRT54g v1.1 (also with WRT54gl v1.1), flashing with DD-WRT v23 sp2. I waited the requisite number of minutes, and my "Wireless-G" badge lit up (a good sign), but when I clicked "Continue" after the upload was successful, I did not get to the DD-WRT web interface. Nor was the device ping-able.
    2. [Comment added 1/04/08 by jwebste1] I can confirm Staylor's comment above for a brand new store bought WRT350N (had to soft reset the router to get the mini install to become accessible on 192.168.1.1. Holding down the reset button for 30 seconds (leaving the power cable connected) re-booted the router, and all was fine thereafter. If the above doesn't result in a successful load of the DD-WRT web interface, try a "ipconfig -renew" in a command prompt window.
    3. [Comment added 12/22/09 by clock] After initially attempting the install of the "kill" file for my modem (as described in my modem's Hardware-Specific section) my browser kept providing an error message. Finally, I thought the router had been bricked. A quick look at the peacock thread showed that pinging the modem and receiving a TTL of 100 meant that, which the modem appeared broken, it was ready for the installation of the dd-wrt .bin file for my modem. Using the tftp.exe discussed at the peacock and at [[2]], I was able to install the dd-wrt firmware without much more fuss.
    4. Again, the best method is to look first at your Hardware-Specific guidelines and refer to those instructions, keeping in mind the Precautions outlined above.
    5. During the firmware upload process, if your router says something similar to, "Upload Failed," you may be using the wrong version of DD-WRT. This may occur through the web GUI if you use a *wrt54g.bin version when you should have selected the generic version instead. It may also be that your router requires the mini version to be flashed before the full version. Be sure to double check to make sure you have the right version (as described in the first section of this page - clock). If you are certain that your router is supported and that you have the correct firmware, you may simply need to use a different web browser (e.g. from Firefox to Internet Explorer).
    6. After clicking Upgrade when upgrading firmware from one DD-WRT version to another, if you are using Firefox there may be a problem with the upload. In this instance the screen fades to white with a countdown timer and is followed by a Connection Reset message shortly after. After this you cannot access the Web GUI again, and a router reboot will result in a flashing power light (WRT54GL is the case in point). You can recover from this and use a different browser (e.g. Internet Explorer) to upload the firmware.
    7. If logging in fails with the default username/password, you can reset the password with a Reset And Reboot.
  5. Reset to Factory Defaults Again
    1. You can use Hard reset or 30/30/30 again. Do this only after you have confirmed that the firmware upgrade is working. At this point you may have temporary problems using Web Interface, so just ping your router.
    2. Many Web Interface problems can be solved by a hard reset and by clearing your browser cache.
    3. See Reset And Reboot.

Method 2: Flashing with TFTP

Although TFTP is a safe method to flash many routers, it is not be seen as the standard procedure for flashing most devices, except if you are specifically told to do so in the specific instructions for flashing your brand or type of device (see Hardware-Specific section below). Normally, the GUI flashing method should be used, as it is adequate for the vast majority of standard situations, but refer to the Hardware-Specific section to be sure.

Tftp is easy: if often requires one quick box uncheck and a quick click - then you are good to go. It is great for instances when web GUI malfunctions or the modem appears to be (but is not) bricked - clock.

If you still wish to flash with TFTP, see the articles TFTP flash, Asus TFTP Flash and Recovering with TFTP.

Method 3: Flashing with Command Line

This is available on routers that already have DD-WRT installed and Telnet/SSH enabled.

It's the *ONLY* recommended mode to upgrade the router wirelessly. (It may not be useful in certain, two-part firmware upgrades that require a "kill" sequence - clock).

telnet or ssh into dd-wrt Download the firmware to the router's /tmp directory with wget or scp

cd /tmp
wget http://www.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/stable/dd-wrt.v2x_generic.bin

Alternatively, you could use the mounted share if you have one, and simply download the file there.

compare the MD5 checksum of the original and the downloaded file

md5sum dd-wrt.v2x_generic.bin

Write the firmware to flash

write dd-wrt.v2x_generic.bin linux

Wait...

Reboot

Restore factory defaults using erase nvram command or reset button

Other Notes

Upgrading to a Newer Version of DD-WRT

If DD-WRT is already installed on your router, you can simply upgrade to a new version via the web interface or TFTP. However, it is highly recommended that you restore the router to defaults using the reset button before and after flash. Never restore old backups from previous versions! Skipping these steps could lead to a bricked device!

Please see wiki article Hard reset for further information on how to restore your device back to DD-WRT default settings.

Configuration Notes

  • You must start to configure router from scratch. Do not try to use config files from older firmware versions.
  • It is strongly advised that you do not disable the "Boot Wait" option under the "Administration" tab. Boot Wait allows you recover if you flash your router improperly.

If something goes wrong

  • If your router fails to reboot (power light doesn't stop flashing, no web interface, etc) you will need to Recover from a Bad Flash. Additional help can be found by doing a forum search.
  • The peacock thread's section on bricked modems ([3]) can help you to identify if you have a real problem or not.

Hardware-specific Information

Accton

  1. Accton MR3202A
  1. Accton MR3201A


  1. Open-Mesh OM1P

Allnet

  1. ALL0277
    • The Allnet ALL0277 (not DSL !!!) is essentially a relabeled Linksys WRT54G v1.0. It was even reported in the forum, that you can install the Linksys firmware on these devices.
    • With some minor exceptions, the procedure to install DD-WRT the first time is pretty much the same as for other WRT54G devices.
    • For flashing this device the first time you need to change the first 4 bytes of the mini_wrt54g image to read W54A (usually this is W54G). You can use a hex editor like XVI32. After the patch, you can upload using the new firmware using the standard ALLNET web interface.
    • If the ethernet interface does not work (it did not for me on v23SP2), try the wireless LAN interface to check whether the upgrade did succeed.
    • After the hard reset of the router, you should be able to proceed as described above.

Asus

A major clean-up of the Asus Install section was needed (and done) in the fall of 2009 - see Asus WL500-- old descriptions for the old but working guides. Valuable information from the old guides should be generalised, summarised and added to the Install list below, in an manner that would keep the Initial Install page looking good.

  1. All Asus WL-500xx series routers
    1. For all Asus WL-500xx series routers there are a number of ways to do the initial flash.
    2. The TFTP method using the two Asus specific clean-up files is the "works every time-almost" way.
    3. Other methods like using the Asus Recovery tool (recommended) or even using the web-GUI (not recommended) have also been reported to work for some, for the initial dd-wrt flash. So your mileage may vary.
    4. Pick the one that is easier and works for you - You have now been notified of the method that is guaranteed to work!
    1. The firmware files for the Asus WL-500xx series initial flash and the main builds are found under Downloads › others › eko › BrainSlayer-V24-preSP2 › 09-08-09-r12874 › broadcom. You will need the mini-asus.trx for the initial flashing - Read on to see when the ...asus.trx file should be used and then how to upgrade the build for your needs.


  1. The TFTP recommended Asus way for all WL-500xx routers
    1. NOTE: This method should only used when you're not a windows user or do not have Administrative privileges in Vista or Windows 7 . The better method is using the provided Asus Firmware recovery Utility that came with the router. You may also obtain it from Asus' website See below this entry for instructions.
    2. Links to the TFTP method of doing the initial flash of the WL-500xx series routers:
      1. Asus TFTP Flash. A very detailed step by step description of using the TFTP way with the extra Asus specific steps of doing the initial flash.
      2. From Linux using ATFTP This description may also work for OS X.
      3. How to Install DD-WRT onto Asus WL-500xx Using Ubuntu Linux. Includes a couple of hints to get TFTP working under Ubuntu 8.10 and 9.04.


  1. Asus Recovery Utility
    1. You can get the utilities here, or you can browse the Asus site to download the latest version. Asus only seem to provide these for Windows.
    2. Under Vista and Win7 this utility must be run as administrator.
    3. In case you have multiple network interfaces and are unable to find you router, disable all but the one that is connected to your router.
    4. You should also turn off your firewall, in order to allow the Asus Recovery Utility to be able to connect and send data from your PC to the Router.
    1. Steps:
      1. Remove the power connector of the WL series router.
      2. While holding the reset button, plug the power connector back in. (WL500gP - button labeled "restore")
      3. When the power LED flashes, release the reset button. The router is now in recovery mode.
      4. You need to manually set the address of your Pc Network LAN card to 192.168.1.10 and subnet mask 255.255.255.0
      5. Use the Asus recovery utility to upload the DD-WRT mini-asus.trx file.
      6. After the upgrade the Utility will ask for a router reboot. Give it about a minute to be on the safe side before removing the power. Once plugged back in, you should be able to access the web interface.
      7. DO NOT use Firefox for upgrading builds! Use Internet Explorer!!!!
      8. Type 192.168.1.1 into your browser and set your username as root and pick a password.
      9. Navigate to Administration->Firmware Upgrade and upload either the recommended build provided on the main page of the site, or another of your choice.
  1. IMPORTANT:
    1. If flashing with a WL500xx (not 520xx) Mega or Big build (Firmware image 5MB or larger) it will take ~ 3-5 minutes AFTER the timer has reached 0 for the firmware to complete. The best thing to do is hit Upgrade and walk away for 10 minutes so you don't inadvertently disturb the upgrade process.
  1. Asus WL500G (Original)
    1. For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series
  1. Asus WL500G Deluxe
  2. For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series
  3. Here is the Asus WL-500g Deluxe specific wiki page with pictures, comments and more
  1. Asus WL500G Premium
    1. For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series
    2. Here is the ASUS WL-500g Premium specific wiki page (in german)
    3. Brick recovery: Try Hard reset, Serial RS-232 connection, and as a very last resort there is the "pin 9 short option" [4]. Unfortunately no known JTAG option on this model.
  1. Asus WL500G Premium V2
    1. For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series
    2. Here is the WL500G Premium v2 specific wiki page with pictures, comments and more
    3. "Old" wiki about Initial flash of WL500gP v2
  1. Asus WL500W
    1. For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series
    2. As this router has a N-type NIC it is recommended to use a new firmware that supports this, this means no v24SP1. The firmware should be newer, like v24-pre-SP2 versions (also called v24_TNG)
  1. IMPORTANT
    1. For those of you who plan to use JFFS2 on this model Asus, consider the following or you run the risk of BRICKING your WL500W:
    2. Brainslayers mega flash size - 7.33MB
    3. Eko's Big Flash size - 5.9MB
    4. Now, the error only occurs when JFFS2 is enabled and the router reboots, so you are safe if you DONT enable JFFS2.
    5. Total available JFFS2 size for BS's build is 640KB which overwhelms the kernel and causes a panic. Even using a storage device with the command mount -o bind /mnt/jffs /jffs will still cause a kernel panic.
    6. Eko's JFFS2 partition size is 1640KB+, allowing much more room.
    7. I tested this on BS's 12996,12874 and 12533 builds and partially bricked my router several times. (A simple power disconnect for 30 secs will allow it to recover)
    8. Eko's build however works flawlessly AND provides the SAME features (except for connection warning) as BS's.
    9. One thing I am still unsure of is why this particular model Asus router is subject to this bug, but in the mean time, I suggest using Eko's Big build until the dev's can work it out..
    10. See download section -> others -> eko -> either BrainSlayer-V24-preSP2 [5] or EKO V24_TNG [6]. Pick date 07-21-09 (or newer) and/or svn number 12533 (or higher).


    1. First of all, the WL500W is Extremely temperamental by nature. Once you have flashed a fresh firmware image, you should always wait 3-5 mins after flashing before making ANY config changes. This is because the CPU is still writing NVRAM variables. Watch the CPU usage, once it falls Below 50%, then start making the changes, and click APPLY settings after every config page. Trying to save everything on a huge firmware, and then executing it all at once can/will cause this router to throw a kernel panic and temporarily brick..


    1. Unplugging it after making config changes is not wise either. Never unplug this router if there is ANY CPU load whatsoever. Configure it, exit out of the Web-inf, and wait for a good safe 5 mins before unplugging it.


  1. "Old" wiki about Initial Flash of the Asus WL-500W
  1. See this for a HowTo make the most of your Asus WL-500W guide.

Asus WL550gE

For initial flash see Asus WL-500xx series

Asus WL520G

  • Simply upload dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin through the web interface of the original Asus firmware. Everything works flawlessly
  • Firmware cannot be uploaded through a wireless connection, must be connected via ethernet.

ASUS WL-520GC

Because this router has only 2MB of flash, you must use a micro-generic build of DD-WRT.

This router supports Micro-plus

Users have experienced successful flashes directly from the web interface on the default factory firmware i.e. the ASUS Flash tool is not required. If this fails, revert to using the tool. (See notes below if you are using ASUS FW newer than 2.0.0.8.)

Other notes

  • Same as Deluxe, but DO NOT flash the clear_nvram or recover files - it will brick your router. Only flash the firmware file itself and then do a reset to factory settings via web GUI.
  • dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic should be used.
  • Using web-based firmware update (rename .bin to .trx)
  • Web interface from Asus firmware 2.0.1.0 and newer doesn't allow to upload DD-WRT firmware, it reports corrupted file. You have to downgrade to 2.0.0.8 Asus firmware in order to flash DD-WRT firmware using the GUI.
  • There also could be unable to downgrade to 2.0.0.8 Asus firmware from newer version through web interface, easily soulution could be rename in order to flash DD-WRT firmware. Easy solution could be to rename a old firmware file (up to 2.0.0.8) for example to "newer" WL520gc_2.0.1.2_EN.trx
  • Uploading via TFTP may not reset the router. Wait for 10-15 minutes and then power it down and up manually.


[Added by zorruno 11 Sep 2008]

  • confirmed with new WL-520GC out of box, using web interface only
  • needed first to downgrade Asus firmware to 2.0.0.8 (here) using the method above by renaming it to WL520gc_2.0.1.1_EN.trx (version 2.0.1.0 was in the router originally)
  • don't worry about looking for a .trx file for the next step, dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin is fine (here). Did not need to rename this file as .trx, it uploaded fine with the .bin suffix.

[artemv, 16 Nov 2008]

  • needed to hard-reset the router after downgrading to 2.0.0.8 (from 2.0.1.1) to be able to load dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic

[[[User:Vermonohue|Vermonohue]] 20:24, 6 November 2009 (CET)]

(Original Asus FW: v2.0.1.1)

I used the following steps:

INSTALLING DD-WRT

  1. Make sure you have another router to connect to the internet! Just in case you need help while your wl-520gc is mid upgrade.
  2. Download FW v2.0.0.8 from Asus web site.
  3. Download dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin (build 13064) from "router database" link on dd-wrt site.
  4. Factory reset router through original FW web interface.
  5. Change your computer's IP address to 192.168.1.1, mask 255.255.255.0. (may have to reboot pc.)
  6. Power cycle router.
  7. Rename new Asus FW from ...2.0.0.8_EN.trx FW to ..fake.2.0.1.2_EN.trx. Keep .trx name. (Or some version higher than the one you have if you have higher than 2.0.1.1 installed.)
  8. Upload fake Asus FW from previous step using Asus FW upload on web interface.
  9. Power cycle, do a restore factory defaults from web interface, Power cycle when it is done.
  10. Use web interface to upload "micro" dd-wrt FW. Leave router on for 5 minutes after uploading!
  11. Power cycle, browse to 192.168.1.1.
  12. Change user, pass, and restore factory defaults from web interface. Leave power on for a few minutes.
  13. Power cycle.

I also managed to brick the router a few times learning how to do this. This is how I recovered:

UNBRICKING

  1. Power off router, push and hold reset button, plug in power, wait for power light to flash slowly, then release the reset. This should put you in the restore mode.
  2. Verify you can ping the router. Try 192.168.1.1 if you don't know what the address is. You may need to use nmap if you are really stuck. You should see ttl=100 on the ping replies. If ttl=64, you may not be bricked!
  3. use tftp to connect to the router, and "put" the fake 2.0.0.8 Asus FW. On OS X Tiger I open a terminal window, change to the directory with the FW, and type the following:
    • tftp 192.168.1.1 (or whatever your router's IP is)
    • tftp> binary
    • tftp> put fake.2.0.1.2.trx (use the name you used in step6 from INSTALLING)
  4. LEAVE ROUTER ON for 5 minutes after tftp reports it is done uploading!!!
  5. Disconnect all cables, power cycle, wait 5 minutes with router on.
  6. Power cycle, restore factory settings from web interface.

I did NOT need to start a tftp server or daemon.

I did NOT use the mini_asus FW pre-load.

I did NOT use the clear_nvram.trx file.

I did NOT use the recover.trx file.

Asus WL520GU

For initial flash use same procedure as Asus WL-500xx series. also see: wl520gu.googlepages.com

Here is the WL-520GU specific wiki page with pictures, comments and more

Asus RT-N12

See Asus RT-N12 Page.

Asus RT-N16

See Asus RT-N16 Page.

Belkin

Belkin F5D7230-4 v2xxx and Lower

As this Belkin router comes in several versions.

If you have a 4 MB model, you can reflash the router with the full version generic firmware from within the routers web interface after dd-wrt is installed.

v1000, and v1111, have 4 MB flash while v1444 has only a 2 MB flash. You have to flash 2 MB routers with the 2 MB micro firmware.

v1232a and all others with Broadcom 4710 chips require VINT builds.

v1444 supports Micro-plus

v2000 has a different switch chip and flash chip than earlier versions so a special build is required. You will temporarily lose the functionality of the switch and will only be able to connect wirelessly after flashing. (see flashing instructions and instructions for enabling the switch ports [7]) v2000 supports Micro-plus

v3000 should work, but attempts to flash it have been unsuccessful with current versions of DD-WRT. Attempting to flash a v3000 could brick your router. (psuftbl has had success with v3000)

v4000 and higher appear to be based on the TI chipset found in the Linksys WRT54GC.

Warning: These instructions will brick v1212 and v1213 Belkin F5D7231-4 routers, apparently without a hope of fixing them short of some rewiring. See the forum posts here [8] for possible help un-bricking one of these units.

  1. Download the latest micro firmware (dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin)
  2. Reset router to factory defaults. Unplug the router.
  3. Connect your computer directly to one of the LAN ports on the router.
  4. The router starts up with IP address 192.168.2.1. Set your computer's IP address manually to the following setting: IP Address: 192.168.2.2, Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0, Default Gateway: leave blank.
  5. Go to Start->Run->"cmd" and press Enter.
  6. Change your directory to the folder containing the firmware image. Ex. cd "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop"
  7. Type tftp -i 192.168.2.1 PUT (file name of firmware image) For example: tftp -i 192.168.2.1 PUT dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin. Do not press enter yet.
  8. Connect the power to the Belkin.
  9. All port LEDs will illuminate.
  10. After a few seconds, all LEDs except the one you are connected to will turn off. Wait exactly one second and hit enter to execute the command. If you get a timeout error just try again. (Also try running tftp right before powering up.) If you continue to have trouble with this step check out the alternative method below.
  11. The LED on the LAN port will flash rapidly for a while after which the power button will flash rapidly for a while. Be patient and wait for the power light to stop flashing. Wait a couple more seconds.
  12. Power cycle the router. (unplug the power, wait a few seconds, plug it back in).
  13. Set your IP address back to automatic (DHCP), or set it to something beginning with 192.168.1.
  14. The router is now accessible at http://192.168.1.1/
  15. The user name is 'root' and the password is 'admin'
  16. Enjoy your DD-WRT router

Alternative for Flashing F5D7230-4

It may be easier to use a GUI TFTP Utility

  1. Follow steps listed in the method above until you finish the part where you set your computer's IP address to 192.168.2.2
  2. Download a GUI tftp tool from here or use tftpd32 (http://tftpd32.jounin.net/)
  3. Start TFTP program and set server to: 192.168.2.1 and for the file part, put the location of your "dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin" file. No password required.
  4. Set retries to 20.
  5. Power up router.
  6. Click upgrade and then hit the reset button on your router. If program doesn't catch the Belkin's TFTP window, just hit reset again. The tftp program will let you know when it is upgrading and succeeds.

TFTP is only active during the first few seconds of boot. If you have problems catching the small TFTP window, try setting your NIC to 10mbps half duplex. This helps the NIC connect quicker. You can also try using a hub or switch between the router and PC.


Second Alternative for Flashing F5D7230-4

If you're having difficulty with either of the above methods (or just don't feel like going through all the hoops required) there is a much simpler method that may work.

  1. Reset the router to factory defaults.
  2. Set your computer's IP address to 192.168.2.2 as described above.
  3. Plug your computer into the router and power the router on.
  4. In a command prompt (what you get by going to Run in the start menu) type out the tftp command line but do not hit enter yet.
  5. Press and release the reset button on the back of the router.
  6. Almost immediately hit enter in the command prompt to run the tftp command you typed out.
  7. If tftp tells you the file was sent successfully wait a few seconds, unplug the router, then plug it back in. If it says the connection timed out or the transfer failed, prepare the tftp command line again (hitting the up arrow key should do it) and repeat the previous two steps.
  8. Connect to 192.168.1.1 to configure (and enjoy) your vastly improved router.

After trying the first two methods a few times (the first method several times in particular) I managed to get my v1444 flashed in one try (!) using this method. As such I am unsure of the exact delay between resetting the router and starting TFTP, but it was definitely less than a second. At the very least this method is much more enjoyable than unplugging and re-plugging your router over and over again.

Linux Instructions for Flashing F5D7230-4

  • Set the IP address of your ethernet interface to be 192.168.2.2, netmask of 255.255.255.0
sudo ifconfig eth0 inet 192.168.2.2 netmask 255.255.255.0
  • Make sure you have "tftp" installed.
  • Start up tftp with the router switched off:
# tftp 192.168.2.1
tftp> verbose
Verbose mode on.
tftp> trace
Packet tracing on.
tftp> rexmt 1
tftp> binary
mode set to octet
tftp> status
Connected to 192.168.2.1.
Mode: octet Verbose: on Tracing: on
Rexmt-interval: 1 seconds, Max-timeout: 25 seconds
tftp> timeout 60
  • Turn on the router after typing the following command:
tftp> put dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin
putting dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin to 192.168.2.1:dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin [octet]
Sent 1746029 bytes in 14.8 seconds [943799 bits/sec]
tftp> 
  • When the lights stop rapidly blinking, reset the router.

OSX Instructions for Flashing F5D7230-4

  • Make sure the router is on and plugged into your Mac's ethernet port
  • Goto System Preferences and click on the Network icon
  • In the selection box next to the word "Show:" select the "Built-in Ethernet" option
  • Change the IPv4 Configuration to manually and set the IP address to 192.168.2.2 the subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 and the router to 192.168.2.1
  • Click "Apply Now" and change the selection box next to "Show:" back to "Network Status"
  • Unplug the power from the router and watch the green dot next to "Built-in Ethernet" turn red
  • Open the terminal application and type the following commands
tftp
tftp> connect 192.168.2.1
tftp> verbose
Verbose mode on.
tftp> binary 
mode set to octet
tftp> status
Connected to 192.168.2.1.
Mode: octet Verbose: on Tracing: off
Rexmt-interval: 5 seconds, Max-timeout: 25 seconds
tftp> timeout 60
  • Type the following but don't hit enter yet. Make sure you can still see the System Preferences window
tftp> put dd-wrt.v24_micro_generic.bin
  • Now plug the router back in. As soon as you see the red dot next to "Built-in Ethernet" turn green, hit enter and the firmware should be flashed once the lights on the router stop blinking.
  • In order to connect to the router you must first go back to the Network Preferences and change the IPv4 configuration back to DHCP and click "Renew DHCP Lease"

Using v2000 Or FD57231-4 As A Wireless Client or Access Point with DD-WRT
(borrowed from http://forum.bsr-clan.de/ftopic8732.html)

The Belkin F5D7230-4 v2000/FD57231-4 (with screws not under label) are still not completely functional with DD-WRT, but it can be used as either a wireless access-point or a wireless client. The reason for this limitation is due to the fact that the current robo-switch is unable to properly configure the vlan with this router's implementation of the BCM5325EKQM switch chip. By bypassing the vlan stuff we can get limited functionality from this router. In order to load DD-WRT micro you must tftp it on to the router. These instructions are for the v24 build of DD-WRT micro not the multi-language version which seems to have stripped out the reboot, ls and other shell commands.
A) Belkin F5D7230-4 v2000 as a wireless client.
1) Connect to the router wirelessly
2) Telnet to the router and sign in or use a serial console cable
3) Enter the commands below:
nvram set lan_ifnames="eth0 vlan0"
nvram set port0vlans=0
nvram set lan_ifname=eth0
nvram set wan_ifname=vlan1
nvram set wan_ifnames=vlan1
nvram commit
reboot
4) After the reboot, unplug the router and plug it back in. When it starts back up your LAN ports should be active. The router's default IP address is 192.168.1.1. Just use the web interface via the LAN port to configure the router as a wireless client.
B) Belkin F5D7230-4 v2000 as a wireless access point
1) Connect to the router wirelessly
2) Telnet to the router and sign in or use a serial console cable
3) Enter the commands below:
nvram set lan_ifnames="vlan0 eth1"
nvram set port0vlans=1
nvram set remote_management=1
nvram set lan_ifname="br0"
nvram set wan_ifname=eth0
nvram set wan_ifnames=eth0
nvram commit
reboot
4) After the reboot, unplug the router and plug it back in. When it starts back up your WAN port should be active. The router's default IP address is 192.168.1.1. Just use the web interface via the WLAN port to configure the router as an access-point.
If you enter in the wrong setting or can not access your router you can always hold down the reset button to restore it to the factory defaults. Remember that we are bypassing all the VLAN stuff so some of the web configurations will not work.

Belkin F5D7230-4 v2000,v2000de + Belkin F5D7231-4 v1102,v1003ee, and v1103uk

This version has a different flash chip than the other versions, and it will enter a reboot loop if a special serial flash build is not used. If you have already flashed the device and it is in a reboot loop, you can still flash the correct build using TFTP.

This version also has a different switch chip so only wireless will work after flashing. Wired can be enabled, but the ports can only be set to either WAN or LAN. If you only have wireless clients or want to use it as an Wireless_Access_Point or Wireless_Bridge; this is not a problem. However, you are not able to use this device as a wired router with wired clients.

Flashing Instructions

Eko has made three new builds for this router. Build 12220 The file names are dd-wrt.v24-12220_Bv2000_NEWD_micro.bin, dd-wrt.v24-12220_Bv2000_NEWD_micro-plus.bin, and dd-wrt.v24-12220_Bv2000_NEWD_micro-plus_ssh.bin If you don't know what micro-plus is you should read this: Micro-plus

A v24 final SF build for this device is currently available here. The file name is dd-wrt.v24-9517_NEWD_SF_micro.bin

Flashing method is the same as other Belkin versions.

Enabling Wired Ports

After flashing, the router will only be accessible through wireless.

  1. Connect to the router over wireless. The default SSID is dd-wrt. You will be able to access the GUI at 192.168.1.1
  2. Telnet to 192.168.1.1 In Windows type telnet 192.168.1.1 in command prompt. The default username is root and password is admin
  3. Type the following commands:
nvram set Belkin_ver=2000
nvram commit
reboot

The default setting is for all the ports to act as LAN ports.

Setting Wired Ports to WAN

It is not possible to set only the WAN port to WAN due to the switch chip in this version. You may set all the ports to WAN after following the above instructions for enabling wired ports. In this mode, you cannot connect any other wired devices other than WAN. If you are going to use the device as an AP or client bridge, this step is not needed.

Connect to the router using wired or wireless and telnet to 192.168.1.1 as explained above.

To use all ethernet ports as WAN, set

nvram set wan_to_lan=yes
nvram commit
reboot

To restore setting to LAN (default)

nvram unset wan_to_lan
nvram commit
reboot

Belkin F5D7230-4 v3000

This version needs to be flashed using build 10068 or later (micro version only). The flashing method is the same as other Belkin routers.

There have been reported problems about this router dropping the connection in Client Mode.

Buffalo

NOTE: Use only v23 SP1 final or later with Buffalo devices. Older releases may cause trouble!

NOTE: For some models you can use the ddadder program

Out-of-the-box: First-time-flashing for 'store-bought' Buffalo models

The web interface on a Buffalo-router cannot be used the very first time to convert the Buffalo router from factory firmware to DD-WRT.

It is very easy though to bypass this on most models (see specific models below for exceptions):

  1. Get a TFTP utility for your OS TFTP_flash. Many operating systems include a GUI tftp tool.
  2. From the DD-WRT website, download dd-wrt.v24_std_generic.bin from the Brainslayer 12874 folder, or the latest SVN release. There is a link to this folder in the peacock announcement at the top of the broadcom router forum.
  3. Plug your ethernet cable (not wireless!) into a LAN port on the Buffalo.
  4. Your IP address auto-assigned is usually 192.168.11.2, but you must manually set it to flash this time only.
  5. Assign the IP of 192.168.11.2 to your network adapter. In most Microsoft Windows this is Start, Control Panel, Network Connections, find the LAN connection and right-click, find TCPIP and click Properties, and set the IP to 192.168.11.2 and the Subnet to 255.255.255.0. Do not change any other settings!
  6. In your TFTP utility of choice, put in 192.168.11.1 for the Server, select the .bin firmware image you downloaded. No password is required for TFTP.
  7. Unplug the Buffalo. Get ready to start the TFTP upload.
  8. Plug in the Buffalo. The diag light with all the other lights may come on very quickly and go out. A few seconds later when the diag light blinks, immediately start the upload.

The diag light flashes for awhile, the router restarts, and you are done! Don't forget now to change your LAN TCP/IP back to DHCP (Automatic).


Misc. Notes: The TFTP procedure above is necessary for first time flashing from the factory Buffalo firmware to DD-WRT firmware. Many companies let you upload firmware directly from the user interface. Buffalo, unfortunately, encrypts their firmware, meaning their routers will accept only their encrypted firmware from the web interface.

The first time you flash, the TFTP method can be used to bypass the 'encrypted' firmware requirement. After dd-wrt is installed, the router firmware can be upgraded through the Web interface normally.

All the Broadcom routers normally enter a special mode in the first few seconds after power is applied that allows a TFTP transfer to directly program the flash ROM with new firmware. So what you do is get everything ready to go. 1. power up the router, and then 2. send the router the new firmware, quickly.

Dicksons has suggested this method:

the non-gymnastic technique for doing a tftp flash on a buffalo is to:

  1. download your firmware (std and anything smaller works, newd if you're using an Eko build)
  2. set your computer into the buff's native default subnet (192.168.11.7 will do)
  3. get the the tftp client ready (tftp.exe)
  4. browse into the native buffalo interface and find the "reboot" button
  5. click the button
  6. press the "start" button on the tftp client.

this method (Dicksons)

  • works the first time every time
  • can be done with only one hand (not three or four as with the "power-up/watch for blinking/try to time your clicking/repeat until lucky" technique)

an even smarter variation is to also put a second address onto your computer's interface that sits in the DD-WRT's default subnet -- that way you don't have to jiggle your dhcp settings after the flash.

if you have a fresh buff just out of shrink-wrap, you can skip the pre-flash 30-30-30 , but if for some reason you've configured the buff and have been using it with stock firmware prior to flashing, then a pre-flash 30-30-30 would be a good idea.

of course, a post-flash 30-30-30 is always good, and will keep the peacock cultists from harassing you on every post...

WHR-G54S, WHR-HP-G54, WZR-HP-G54 Specifics

  • Once you flash to DD-WRT on the Buffalo WHR-G54S/WHR-HP-G54/WZR-RS-G54, you may want to flash back to the Buffalo firmware. The Buffalo Factory Revert files can be uploaded from the dd-wrt GUI to restore the factory firmware. The WHR-HP-G54 image is the German version. Once it is installed you can download the English version from Buffalo's site and install it.
  • A hidden LED behind the front panel may blink on older models. It slightly lights up the bridge icon. This LED is not used in the Buffalo firmware, but in DD-WRT it will flash on for 2 seconds, then off for 2 seconds.

Also, see WHR-HP-G54

WHR-G125 Specifics

It is now possible to revert this unit to factory firmware. Please see here for here for revert files.

Support for this model is in v24 and later. Do not use earlier versions (like any v23)!

WZR-RS-G54 Specifics

Substitute 192.168.12.1 as the router IP, and 192.168.12.2 as your computer IP in this guide.

WBR-G54 WLA-G54 WBR2-G54 WBR2-G54S specifics

See Flash Your Buffalo WBR-G54, WLA-G54, ... also includes WBR2-G54, WBR2-G54S

Flashing WHR-G300N

See WHR-G300N

Flashing WHR-HP-AG108

See WHR-HP-AG108

More detailed flashing instructions under Windows

Vista Users: Go into Control Panel, Programs, turn Windows Features on of off, check "TFTP Client".

The computer you are using, and the router you are resetting, must be close to each other: so it is possible to have one hand on the enter key of the computer, and the other holding the power plug of the router, and able to put it in the wall or power outlet.

  1. It's good to now reset to factory defaults by holding the reset button while plugging in the router. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Unplug the router. This makes sure the router is in its 'factory fresh' state.
  2. Unplug the router. Usually, preparing by leaving the connection to the router, and unplugging the router from the wall or power cord, is the easiest way.
  3. A non-XPSP2, third-party firewall, may interfere with tftp's ability to talk to the router. It may be useful to disable any third-party firewalls now.
  4. Either:
    1. Your computer should be connected directly to one of the LAN ports on the router. (You can use a regular cable or crossover).
    2. Or if you have a larger network, the computer is connected to a switch, and then to the router LAN port. The router's power cord still needs to be within reach while you are at the computer.
      Reference Image
  5. For Windows XP, the following reference image should help. After selecting "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)," click on the Properties button to open the next screen. Enter the info as shown, an IP address of 192.168.11.2, a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, and click 'OK'. Leave Default Gateway blank.
  6. Make a copy of the firmware file, call it 'ddwrt.bin', and put it in your user folder. For instance, "C:\Documents and Settings\yourusername".
  7. Open a command window, by using Start->Run->"cmd". Enter 'ping 192.168.11.1 -t -w 10'.
    1. The router is pinged continuously from the computer, letting you know when to send the firmware.
  8. Open up a second command window, and leave the first where you can see the ping results.
  9. Without pressing Enter, type tftp -i 192.168.11.1 PUT ddwrt.bin Do not press enter yet. Keep this second command window in the foreground, so all you have to press is the Enter key to send the firmware.
  10. With the power cable to the router in one hand, and the other hand on the Enter key, plug the router in while watching the first command window. When ping replies from 192.168.11.1 begin, press the Enter key.
    1. Some people have found that they have better luck if you plug in the power cable for the router first, then wait a few seconds until you see the red "DIAG" light come on the front of the router. As soon as you see that, you'll want to press Enter to immediately start the TFTP transfer.
    2. http://wiki.openwrt.org/OpenWrtDocs/Hardware/Buffalo/WHR-G54S
  11. All port LEDs will illuminate.
  12. The LED on the LAN port will flash rapidly for about 6 seconds. The TFTP command will complete with a success printout, like Transfer successful: 3502080 bytes in 5 seconds, 700416 bytes/s. Leave the router ALONE at this point!
  13. The router will reboot and then boot DD-WRT.
  14. At this point, the router is ready to use. There is no need to reboot it (unplug/plug).
  15. You can reconfigure your network interface on your computer to use DHCP. The computer pulls an IP address and network information from the router. Access the router via http://192.168.1.1
    1. (For the WB2-G54 and some WHR-G54S models, the router may still be accessible at 192.168.11.1).
  16. The user name is 'root' and the password is 'admin'.

Unplugging router can cause media detect network cards to show no media, ie "Network cable disconnected." When you start the tftp and plug the router in, the NIC doesn't detect media until after the tftp flash window has passed, so 60 seconds later tftp times out and the router boots normally. If so, don't unplug the router. Get your tftp ready, hold down the Init (Reset) button on the router, with the Init held down and the Diag blinking, start tftp and immediately release the Init button. You'll never get the 'Cable Disconnected' errors, and it should flash right up.

If you experience timeouts with TFTP

***If you are still having trouble with timeouts, etc., you may want to try using the TFTP client from Linksys. Be sure to set it to retry at least three (3) times. Five (5) would be a safe number to start with. Connect power while holding the reset button till the red diag button begins to blink, release the reset button and hit the Upgrade button on the Linksys TFTP Utility. For WHR-HP-G54 I had to flash through a switch with Windows or suffer timeouts trying.***

Setting your NIC to 10mbps half duplex helps it connect faster so you don't miss the TFTP window. You can also try putting a hub or switch between the router and PC. ( Bolded by GeeTek)

I tried several time on Windows XP. The result is always a timeout. Disabling Media Sense feature of Windows XP, I finally succeeded. How to disable Media Sense feature of Windows. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/239924

A script-method-flash-method in Windows

  1. Save the script below to a file named "install.cmd" (without quotes), and put the firmware file in the same folder.
  2. Run it.
  3. Follow the directions.

@echo off

echo ============================================================================
echo Type or paste the firmware filename below and then press Enter.
echo.
set /p dd-wrt_fn=Firmware Filename: 
echo.
if not exist %dd-wrt_fn% goto FNF_ERROR

echo ============================================================================

echo This batch file will upload %dd-wrt_fn% in the current
echo directory to 192.168.11.1 during the router's bootup.
echo.
echo * Set your ethernet card's settings to:
echo      IP:      192.168.11.2
echo      Mask:    255.255.255.0
echo      Gateway: 192.168.11.1.
echo * Unplug the router's power cable.
echo.

echo Press Ctrl+C to abort or any other key to continue . . .
pause > nul

echo.
echo * Re-plug the router's power cable.
echo.

echo ============================================================================

echo Waiting for the router; Press Ctrl+C to abort . . .
echo.

:PING
ping -n 1 -w 50 192.168.11.1 > nul
if errorlevel 1 goto PING

echo tftp -i 192.168.11.1 put %dd-wrt_fn%
tftp -i 192.168.11.1 put %dd-wrt_fn%
if errorlevel 1 goto PING

echo.

echo ============================================================================

echo * WAIT for about 2 minutes while the firmware is being flashed.
echo * Reset your ethernet card's settings back to DHCP.
echo * The default router address will be at 192.168.1.1.
echo.

pause
goto END

:FNF_ERROR
echo ============================================================================

echo ERROR: Make sure this batch file and the firmware are in the same directory!
echo.
pause

:END




Linux, OS X or other OS: TFTP flashing

  1. Obviously, be sure to observe the aforementioned procedures:
    • Disable your wireless adapter so that the tftp connection is not through a wireless connection.
    • Connect directly to the router using a wired connection (i.e. ethernet cable). Make sure you are connected to one of the four LAN ports and not the WAN port.
    • Download a copy of these instructions so that they are available to you during the procedure.
    • Most importantly, review all of these procedures before attempting them.
  2. OS X specific instructions:
    • Open up system preferences and select the network preference pane
    • Under the TCP/IP tab select from the drop down menu next to Configure IPv4 manually
    • Type in 192.168.11.2 for the IP address
    • Type in 255.255.255.0 for the Subnet mask
    • Type in 192.168.11.1 for the router
    • Click Apply Now
  3. Change to the directory that you downloaded the dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin file into. At least in Mac OS X, tftp fails to resolve either absolute or relative paths. It is simply better to cd to the directory that contains the dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin file before launching the tftp app so no path resolution has to happen.
  4. Execute the tftp command and change the mode to binary by typing binary and hitting return/enter.
  5. Execute the trace command so you get feedback.
  6. Execute the rexmt 1 command so tftp will retry to send the file if you don't get the timing perfect.
  7. type in the connect 192.168.11.1 command but don't execute it yet.
  8. copy the following command (ctrl-c or cmd-c): put dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin.. You don't want to hit return yet, because you're going to do this when the timing is right.
  9. Now that you are ready, here we go:
    1. Plug in the router
    2. When the router is plugged back into power, all of the LEDs on the ethernet ports will turn on.
    3. Once the LEDs turn off on all ports except the connected port, hit enter on the connect command, then immediatly paste (crtl+v or cmd-v) the PUT command into the terminal and hit enter.
    4. The terminal will return with the number of bytes sent and the time that the transfer took in seconds.


Here is a recap of all the commands:

$ cd /path/to/dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin/directory
$ tftp
tftp> binary
tftp> trace
tftp> rexmt 1
tftp> connect 192.168.11.1
tftp> put dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin

tftp command tip alternatively to using the tftp shell, you can connect and upload the firmware with the tftp command from the shell prompt. You must specify -m binary to specify the binary transfer mode else the flash will fail. Simple type the following command in the command prompt, and wait to hit 'enter' until you would have above (very shortly after reconnecting the routers power)

tftp 192.168.11.1 -m binary -c put dd-wrt.v24_std_generic.bin

OS X timing tip: Open the network preference pane and select "Network Status" under the "show" pull-down menu. When the router is unplugged the dot next to "Built-in Ethernet" will be red. Now plug in the router and watch for the "Built-in Ethernet" dot to turn green. As soon as it does, execute the connect and put commands.

Linux: Alternatives and Troubleshooting flash procedures

  • Within tftp, you may be able to execute multiple commands using the '&&' operator.
  • You may be able to use the following one line command:
tftp 192.168.11.1 -m binary -c put dd-wrt.v23_generic.bin 
  • Be sure to remember to use 192.168.12.1 for the WZR-RS-G54 router.
  • Make sure you are in the directory containing the DD-WRT binary before entering tftp.
  • If tftp fails, try atftp (available in portage for Gentoo and repositories for Debian, Ubuntu, and probably others.) With atftp, the "binary" and "rexmt 1" commands are unnecessary.
  • If the above does not work, try issuing the "put" command before powering the router. The command will retry and begin as soon as the connection is established. Finding the right timing is everything.
  • Try also holding the router's INIT button, starting the "put" command, then releasing the button.

More Troubleshooting tips

  • If you experience problems a network switch connected between the Buffalo and your PC may help.
  • If you experience problems, you may need to erase NVRAM by starting a telnet session and entering one (or both?) of the following options:
  • Option 1 :
mtd erase nvram
cd /tmp
wget http://openwrt.inf.fh-brs.de/~nbd/nvram-clean.sh
chmod a+x /tmp/nvram-clean.sh
/tmp/nvram-clean.sh
nvram commit
  • Search for posts in the forum containing "WHR-G54S" and the problem you are having.

De-bricking (unresponsive)

  • Forums, search for "WHR-G54S bricked". There are enough debricking threads, you don't need to start your own.

D-Link

DIR-300

See DIR300 page.

DIR-330

See DIR-330 page.

DIR-400

См. DIR-400 страницу

DIR-600

See DIR-600 page

Gateworks Avila Network Processor GW2348

Please note: The details in these instructions apply specifically to the GW2348-4 board.

If you are using a GW2348-2 or GW2347 there are subtle but important differences in the flashing commands you must use. See the

file FLASHING.TXT for details.

See Gateworks Avila Network Processor GW2348 page.

LaFonera (en)

See LaFonera Software Flashing Page.

Linksys

Identifying Hardware Versions

Linksys Serial numbers

Linksys WAP54G

WARNING - DD-WRT was not originally intended to be loaded on a WAP unit. It was found that it will run but it is a tricky unit to load and have function correctly. Below are a compilation of methods/instructions to assist you with creating a DD-WRT loaded WAP unit.

Hard reset does not work on this device so it is not possible to clear the NVRAM using the reset button. This can be problematic if you need to reset the device in order to access it. If this happens you can reinstall the linksys firmware using the tftp method and then reset it.

LOAD AT YOUR OWN RISK.

See Linksys WAP54G page.

Linksys WRH54G

See Linksys WRH54G page.

Linksys WRT54G, WRT54GL, WRT54GS, or WRT54GGX

DD-WRT supports all WRT54G models except for the v7.

See Linksys WRT54G/GL/GS/GX page.

Linksys WRT54G-TM and WRT54G-RG

These routers are identical in terms of hardware, but differ in terms of firmware, so you MUST USE THE CORRECT files. The WRT54G-TM was a t-mobile router put out by Linksys, and the WRT54G-RG was a Rogers router put out by rogers in Canada.


To Flash the WRT54G-TM

See Linksys WRT54G-TM page.


To Flash the WRT54G-RG'

See Linksys WRT54G-RG page.

Linksys WRT54G2 v1.0

See Linksys WRT54G2 page.

Linksys WRT54G2 v1.3 and WRT54GS2 v1.0

See Linksys WRTL54G2 v1.3 & WRT54GS2 v1.0 page.

Linksys WRTSL54GS

See Linksys WRTSL54GS page.

Linksys WTR54GS

See WTR54GS page.

Linksys WRT150N and WRT160N

See Linksys WRT150N & WRT160N page.

Linksys WRT300N v1 and v.1.1

See Linksys WRT300N page.

Linksys WRT310N v1.0

See Linksys WRT310N v1.0 page.

Linksys WRT320N

See Linksys WRT320N v1.0 page.

Linksys WRT350N

See Linksys WRT350N page.

Linksys WRT600N v1 and 1.1

See Linksys WRT600N page.

Linksys WRT610N v1 WIP

See Linksys WRT610N page.

Microsoft

Microsoft MN700

  • See MN-700 Page - summary of steps include:
    • Similar to Asus Deluxe.
    • First perform MN-700 hack to enable Linux-based firmware to be installed.
    • Install DD-WRT firmware using Asus Recovery Utility in recovery mode
    • Clear filter_services variables if necessary (SP2 and earlier)

v23 SP2 and earlier work but require filter_service NVRAM variables to be cleared and reset button does not work.
Full support in SVN 3949+ (you can get SVN 3953 here)

Mikrotik Routerboard RB/532

Mikrotik Routerboard RB/532 is supported starting with DD-WRT v23 SP1. See Mikrotik Routerboard RB/532.

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi R100 Gateway

The Mitsubishi R100 is a relabeled Asus WL500G that is only available in Australia. As such, you can use the Asus tools on the Mitsubishi product. The R100s are usually found at lower prices compared to the Asus product. They also come with a three year warranty. Obviously, flashing with a third-party firmware voids this warranty.

Motorola WR850G

See Flash Your Motorola WR850G

Netgear

Netgear WGR614v8/L/WW

Initial flash of DD-WRT firmware is done though Netgear update GUI using a device specific .chk file

If the firmware you are loading is before svn11600 then you will need to update the firmware using this file first before upgrading to a newer build. After the initial .chk flash (after svn11600) any generic .bin file can be used to upgrade firmware to the router using the DD-WRT Firmware update tab.

These are the notes provided by Eko.

Files listed are located here

Notes:

Flashing Netgear WGR614v8, WGR614L, WGR614WW

For first flash (running original Netgear's firmware) or for tftp please use dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_mini_wgr614v8-L.chk file.


For upgrade when already running DD-WRT (IMPORTANT!):

- if your DD-WRT build is less then 11600 please use dd-wrt.v24-11604_WGR614v8-L_mini.bin file. Then you can upgrade to any build listed below.

- if your DD-WRT build number is greater then 11600, you can upgrade directly using any build listed below. Keep in mind that as newer builds come out (higher svn numbers than 11600) they are also compatible.

Compatible builds:

  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_mini.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_mini_hotspot.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_std.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_std-nokaid.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_std-nokaid_nohotspot_nostor.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_voip.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_openvpn_jffs_small.bin
  • dd-wrt.v24-11604_NEWD_openvpn.bin


Additional wiki information about the WGR614v8 can be found here. Some of this data is outdated but it could still provide to be useful.

Netgear WNR834Bv1

This model (the V1) does NOT have a JTAG header, only serial, so caution must be exercised when working on this unit.

Not much is said about this device other than flash it with a modified header. All information I found was that there was not modified header build for this unit except that which was created by SveaSoft with theire Talisman 1.3.1 package.

So... after much investigation it was found that the firmware needs to be updated in the form of an .img file. Original Netgear firmware was a .img file and would only accept TFTP input or web GUI input of a .img file.

[NOTE] - further investigation proved that the .img file is actually a .zip file. You can rename the .img to .zip and extract the contained WNR834B.bin file. Using a hex editor this .bin file contains both the CFE and FW for the unit....so by removing the first byte through the last byte before the HDR0 in the file will leave just the FW of the .bin file... this is a .bin file and CAN be flashed directly to the unit using TFTP.

Also found was that any .bin file can be flashed using TFTP to the unit unless the nvram has been erased using the CFE's "nvram erase" command then it will need flashing with the original .img file again. Once the Netgear FW .img is flashed navigate to the upgrade FW tab and use the 1158_mini build of .img provided below.


I found that Simri created a .img build for this unit and it works very well. The first loading of DD-WRT firmware must be an .img file and can be loaded from the Netgear firmware update tab.

11580_mini build of .img

Hard reset
Load firmware (192.168.1.1 with admin/password for un/pw)
wait 5 minutes
power cycle router
hard reset again
configure.

Subsequent DD-WRT firmware updates can be done from the DD-WRT firmware update page and you can load any .bin file except for the mega build. (I suggest you don't downgrade lower than the 11580 build that you used for the initial flash)

Here is the original Netgear firmware as well for those that want to revert back.

Additional information about this unit can be found here

USE THESE INSTRUCTIONS AT YOUR OWN RISK. DD-WRT WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE IF YOU BRICK THE ROUTER

[NOTE] - if you have DD-WRT on the unit and have the wrong MAC address. You can use another method of obtaining the correct MAC address permanently.

Extract the cfe.bin by using the HTTP backup method (save this file to your disk drive) Edit the cfe.bin file using a hex editor...locate and modify both the et0macaddr and et1macaddr to be the MAC address with that which is found on the sticker of your unit (yes...both et0 and et1 will be that address)....Make sure you do not ADD any bytes to the file (only overwrite current bytes)....if you do add to the file...you will have an unrecoverable brick....guaranteed...remember you only have serial communication and the CFE must work for serial to work.

Then using WinSCP (SSH must be enabled in DD-WRT) copy the newly edited CFE to the unit's /tmp directory. Now you can use a telnet session to mtd the new CFE over the old one....remember...you must have the exact same CFE with only the MAC address's changed for this to work...if you don't you will have an unrecoverable brick...guaranteed.

the commands for overwriting the CFE is

mtd unlock cfe
mtd write /tmp/cfe.bin cfe

When it finishes reboot the router. The correct MAC addresses should now show up on the Status tab.


Thanks to Sparky and Simri for sharing their knowledge of these Netgear units on the forum. redhawk

Netgear WNR834Bv2

(See Important Notes below before attempting to flash)

Warning.png

Do not use bin/chk files from the router database older than svn12188. Currently, they are bricking routers. Once this problem is sorted out, this message will be removed.
Sparkie Updated by redhawk0

The Netgear WNR834Bv2 is now fully supported as of 3rd July 2008. Thanks to Eko, Brainslayer, etc. for their superb work in getting this router supported.

These (slightly modified) instructions were first posted by sparkie here. Read that complete thread for the hairy details on getting this device fully supported, if you are so interested or suffer from insomnia.

Step 1: Download the mini version of DD-WRT version 24, build 12548, new driver in the dot CHK format here.

Step 2: Flash the firmware to your router using Netgear's factory firmware standard web interface. Note that to successfully flash this device, you may need to use IE or Firefox 3 or higher. sparkie has reported in the thread linked above that Firefox 2 will not work with the Netgear factory web upgrade page to flash this device.

Step 3: If the mini build is insufficient for your needs, you may download your preferred flash BIN file from here. Then flash up the new .BIN file using the DD-WRT web interface from the Administration tab, then the Firmware Upgrades tab.

Important Notes (Please read these in full before attempting to flash):

  • DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FLASH ANY BUILDS EARLIER THAN 9856 DATED 3RD JULY 2008, or you risk bricking your router. Some of the v24 release candidate 7s worked with minor bugs. But the first final v24 bricked the router for some users as a result of a problem with JFFS.
  • TFTP flashing only works when the router detects a bad flash and puts itself in diagnostic mode. This can be seen by a flashing green power light, and also a ping trace will show response immediately after powerup with TTL=100. Proper flashes will stop replying to pings after about 15 seconds, then will reply with TTL=64. Diag mode will stay at TTL=100. Diag mode can be forced by opening the router and shorting pins 16 and 17 on the MX flash chip during powerup. Some suggest you try the pin short first, other suggest JTAG. Both have their pros and cons.
  • TTL=100 3~6 times means your router is bricked. No amount of uploading an image via tftp at the proper time will work. It will require a pin short, or jtag to fix. It is futile to try and achieve perfect timing to upload an image in this mode.
  • NEWD = New Drivers; VINT = Vintage Drivers. Use only NEWD firmwares with this router. VINT builds are for much older routers.
  • DO NOT INSTALL the generic broadcom dd-wrt.v24_std_generic.bin file (2.4 SP1). It will likely brick your router.
  • If your router is stuck in 'tftp only' mode (characterized by a constant TTL=100 ping response), you can rescue it by TFTPing the original Netgear firmware less the header file located here, which will flash your router back to Netgear's stock 1.0.22 North America firmware. This file is called wnr834bv2_1_0_22_na.bin
  • For routers will a more recent flash, you will need the 2.1.13 version of the flashes 2.1.13_NA / 2.1.13_WW
  • Your router has only 4 MB of Flash RAM. Do not attempt to flash the MEGA version of DD-WRT to this device.

DOUBLE SUPER DUPER Extremely Important Note:

According to Eko, the NVRAM of this router has an additional partition on it which contains your router's serial number, MAC address, and board code. DD-WRT builds prior to 9856 would overwrite this section of NVRAM, if the user enabled JFFS. Builds 9856 and higher include support for turning JFFS on with this model router. In the event that you accidentally erase this part of the NVRAM, you can only recover your router by flashing it via JTAG.


This also implies that if you want to use the OpenVPN version, you'll want one with an openvpn_jffs_small suffix like THIS one (current as of 15/5/2009).

WNR834Bv2 JTAG Pinout:

J12 Pin 1 connected to JP1 pin 1 via 100 ohm resistor. 

J12 Pin 3 --100r--> TDI (Pin 2 of parallel port) 
J12 Pin 5 --100r--> to TD0 (Pin 13 of parallel port) 
J12 Pin 7 --100r--> to TMS (Pin 4 of parallel port) 
J12 Pin 9 --100r--> to TCK (Pin 3 of parallel port) 
J12 Pin 10 -------> to GND (Pin 20&25 of parallel port)  

  • Functional NVRAM backup is here.
  • Functional CFE backup is here.
  • Functional Custom backup is here. (REQUIRES MODIFICATION OF MAC ADDRESS)
  • Tornado's JTAG v2.1.4 is here.


RECOVERY PROCESS VIA JTAG

One of the best threads that has been found for debricking the WNR834Bv2.


The fastest way to recover a bricked WNR834Bv2 is to wipe the kernel portion of the flash, and reflash the custom section.

  • 1. Download one of the binpacks WNR834Bv2 World Wide. WNR834Bv2 North America, and the custom.bin
  • 2. JTAG the router
  • 3. Erase the kernel portion of the flash
  • 4. Reflash the 'custom' section of the flash (hex edit the custom.bin and put your own MAC address in at offset 40~45!)
  • 4a. flash parameters: -flash:custom /window:1fc00000 /start:1ffe0000 /length:10000
  • 5. Power cycle the router and the router will respond with a constant ttl=100 ping response
  • 6. TFTP a dot CHK file appropriate to your router (NA or WW)
  • 6a. You will know that the transfer was completed and the flash process is working when router power light blinks amber on and off once per second. After a few minutes, the router will begin to respond with a ttl=64 ping and will be functional again.

RECOVERY PROCESS VIA PIN SHORT

  • Pin Locations.
  • Short pins 16 & 17
  • Power up router
  • Open two command prompt/console windows
  • Start a ping of the router, it should respond with TTL=100
  • Initiate TFTP upload of a .chk file (DD-WRT or one of the stock Netgear ones)
  • Immediately remove the short
  • You will know that the transfer was completed and the flash process is working when router power light blinks amber on and off once per second. After a few minutes, the router will begin to respond with a ttl=64 ping and will be functional again. (Yes, it actually does take 2~3 minutes)

FAULTY POWER SUPPLY

Many of the factory refurb WNR834B v1 and v2 routers sold in 2008 through frys.com, geeks.com, tigerdirect.com, and woot.com were shipped with a marginal or defective power supply manufactured by DVE. These units are smaller than traditional power supplies, and can be identified by the following information:

P/N: 332-10006-01

MODEL: DSA-12R-12 AUS 120120

The routers will operate perfectly with only 9VDC @ 800mA, but older-style surplus Netgear power supplies that output 12VDC @ 1A are available from AllElectronics.com as DCTX-1216

Netgear WNDR3300

Initial flash of dd-wrt firmware can be done though Netgear factory firmware GUI using a device specific .chk file

Just get this .chk file (as of 2009, May First) and use Netgear GUI to upload to your router. All done.


Few things I noticed so far.

- You can try but std never worked for me so far.

- If you brick it (green power light keeps blinking), unbricking is easy. Just use tftp to upload above .chk or factory firmware. (tftp info here)


These are the notes provided by Eko.

Files listed are located here

Notes:

Flashing Netgear WNDR3300

For first flash (running original Netgear's firmware) or for tftp please use dd-wrt.v24-12030_NEWD_mini_wndr3300.chk file.

If you need additional info WNDR3300 is discussed here.

Siemens SE505

DD-WRT v23 (starting from 27/10/05 version) does now officially support the Siemens Gigaset SE505 router. That means you can use the very latest features like WPA2 on this unit too. Due the limited RAM of this unit, you cannot use all features at the same time, but from the base it is much better than the original firmware for this router.

Flash Your Siemens SE505

Related Links

Ubiquiti Litestation 2 (LS2/LS5/PS2/PS5/NS2/NS5/LSX)

Upgrading Ubiquiti LS2 to DD-WRT v24 (the same procedure works for other Ubiquiti products as well, just the files and filenames are different)


Requirements:

   * Direct ethernet cable connection between PC and LiteStation
   * Network settings of PC: 192.168.1.254/255.255.255.0
   * TFTP client on PC
   * LiteStation firmware file (e.g. LS2.dd-wrt.bin for LiteStation2)

Flashing procedure:

   1. Please ensure that the latest firmware revision of Ubiquiti is already installed using the web upgrade utility (e.g.V 2.1.9)
      If not, please reflash it using the Ubiquiti LS2 web interface. This is important to ensure that the latest RedBoot bootloader
      is installed.
   2. power off the device and power it on again while holding the reset button for about ~10 seconds
   3. flash LS2.dd-wrt.bin using tftp to 192.168.1.20 in binary mode

Windows : tftp -i 192.168.1.20 put LS2.dd-wrt.bin Linux/Unix/MacOS X: tftp 192.168.1.20

                           tftp> bin
                           tftp> put LS5.dd-wrt.bin
                           tftp> exit
   4. after successfully flashing the unit will be accessible with web on 192.168.1.1