Asus RT-N66U

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[[Image:ASUS RT-N66U.jpg | right | 360px]] [[Image:ASUS RT-N66U.jpg | right | 360px]]
-=Hardware= 
This 'Dark Night' presents significant risk to bricking that requires careful adherence to the installation process. However, there is a built-in and robust Recovery Mode. The NVRAM issue has been resolved in newer CFE versions (and K3X builds). This 'Dark Night' presents significant risk to bricking that requires careful adherence to the installation process. However, there is a built-in and robust Recovery Mode. The NVRAM issue has been resolved in newer CFE versions (and K3X builds).
-==[http://en.techinfodepot.shoutwiki.com/wiki/ASUS_RT-N66U Specifications]==+=Hardware [http://en.techinfodepot.shoutwiki.com/wiki/ASUS_RT-N66U Specifications]=
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" {| border="1" cellspacing="0"
!CPU !CPU
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|- |-
!MIMO config !MIMO config
-|3x3 (both bands) (see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=26 Forum, BrainSlayer])+|3x3 (both bands) (see [https://forum.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&start=26 Ref: forum])
|- |-
!ETH chip !ETH chip
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|} |}
-====Reset button for Recovery====+===Reset button for Recovery===
Pressing the Reset button (labeled like ' > o < ') at powerup will put the N66U into recovery mode. Pressing the Reset button (labeled like ' > o < ') at powerup will put the N66U into recovery mode.
-*Press and hold the reset button while plugging in the power until the power led starts blinking. Access recovery mode at 192.168.1.1.+*Press and hold the reset button then plug in power until the power LED starts blinking. Access recovery mode at 192.168.1.1.
-====WPS button to Clear NVRAM====+===WPS button to Clear NVRAM===
Pressing the WPS button at powerup will reset (clear NVRAM) to default settings. Pressing the WPS button at powerup will reset (clear NVRAM) to default settings.
*Press and hold the WPS button while plugging in the power for about ten seconds. All the LEDs should flash, indicating settings have been reset to default settings. *Press and hold the WPS button while plugging in the power for about ten seconds. All the LEDs should flash, indicating settings have been reset to default settings.
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'''For newer CFE version updates''' and procedures see here: [https://www.snbforums.com/threads/cfe-bootloader-update.8259/ SNB Forums]<br> '''For newer CFE version updates''' and procedures see here: [https://www.snbforums.com/threads/cfe-bootloader-update.8259/ SNB Forums]<br>
-====CFE Version (or Update)====+=====CFE Version (or Update)=====
[[Asus_RT-N66U#DD-WRT_Alternatives|AsusWRT-Merlin]] can be installed to enable telnet and check the CFE version, and still be flashed directly to DD. [[Asus_RT-N66U#DD-WRT_Alternatives|AsusWRT-Merlin]] can be installed to enable telnet and check the CFE version, and still be flashed directly to DD.
*In nvram: nvram get bl_version *In nvram: nvram get bl_version
*CFE partition: strings /dev/mtd0ro | grep bl_ver *CFE partition: strings /dev/mtd0ro | grep bl_ver
-====K3.X Builds====+===K3.X Builds===
*Use RT-N66U.trx ''big'' or ''mega'' builds in the ''Broadcom_K3X'' folder. *Use RT-N66U.trx ''big'' or ''mega'' builds in the ''Broadcom_K3X'' folder.
-*See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware]] for links and read forum build threads.+*See [[Firmware_FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware]] for links and read forum build threads.
-====K2.6 Builds====+===K2.6 Builds===
USB (and thus MMC) also does not work in K2.6 builds. USB devices cause a kernel panic: see [http://svn.dd-wrt.com/ticket/2580 SVN ticket]. Use a K3.x build (see above), which also works around the NVRAM issue. USB (and thus MMC) also does not work in K2.6 builds. USB devices cause a kernel panic: see [http://svn.dd-wrt.com/ticket/2580 SVN ticket]. Use a K3.x build (see above), which also works around the NVRAM issue.
-==== DD-WRT Alternatives ====+=== DD-WRT Alternatives ===
User Merlin implemented a solution in mid-2012 to extend the original 32k NVRAM CFE to ~60k NVRAM in firmware. User Merlin implemented a solution in mid-2012 to extend the original 32k NVRAM CFE to ~60k NVRAM in firmware.
*Homepage: https://asuswrt.lostrealm.ca/ *Homepage: https://asuswrt.lostrealm.ca/
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TomatoUSB [http://tomato.groov.pl/ Shibby] also implemented a 64k NVRAM solution for 32K NVRAM CFE in 2012. TomatoUSB [http://tomato.groov.pl/ Shibby] also implemented a 64k NVRAM solution for 32K NVRAM CFE in 2012.
-====Historical Build Information====+===Historical Build Information===
This is only potentially relevant if using builds from 2015 and earlier. This is only potentially relevant if using builds from 2015 and earlier.
*If already running a custom 64K Build like Fractal or Kong with CFE 1.0.1.3, [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2015/02-04-2015-r26138/broadcom_K3X/dd-wrt.v24-26138_NEWD-2_K3.x_mega-nv64k.bin 26138 mega nv64k] must be used to upgrade. Since K2.6 Builds have an embedded check, you need to use those special nvXXk trailed images. On K3.X this check has been removed and you can simply upgrade from a previous K3.X. *If already running a custom 64K Build like Fractal or Kong with CFE 1.0.1.3, [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2015/02-04-2015-r26138/broadcom_K3X/dd-wrt.v24-26138_NEWD-2_K3.x_mega-nv64k.bin 26138 mega nv64k] must be used to upgrade. Since K2.6 Builds have an embedded check, you need to use those special nvXXk trailed images. On K3.X this check has been removed and you can simply upgrade from a previous K3.X.
-*With K3.X Broadcom builds, the CFE version is less concerning since DD-WRT detects it automatically to extend the 32KB limitatoin.+*With K3.X Broadcom builds, the CFE version is less concerning since DD-WRT detects it automatically to extend the 32KB limitation.
 +*Build 24461 BRICKS the RT-N66U, but recover is possible through the mini CFE web interface.
 + 
=Installation Instructions= =Installation Instructions=
-'''For builds and more information''', read [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware?]].[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Announcement], new build, and model-specific threads.+Read the [[Firmware FAQ]], [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Announcement], new build, and model-specific threads.
===Preparation=== ===Preparation===
-'''<font color="red">IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds</font> if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER'''+'''Use a *_RT-N66U.trx file for initial flash and upgrades, or only half the memory will be available.'''
 +*'''<font color="red">IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds</font> if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER'''
*Older CFE (32K nvram) can use K2.6: see the above '''K2.6''' and '''K3.X''' sections for details *Older CFE (32K nvram) can use K2.6: see the above '''K2.6''' and '''K3.X''' sections for details
'''Note:''' Reset '''BEFORE''' and '''AFTER''' firmware upload. If upgrading ''with DD'', ''before'' is optional. '''Note:''' Reset '''BEFORE''' and '''AFTER''' firmware upload. If upgrading ''with DD'', ''before'' is optional.
-====Upload via Web GUI ====+=====Upload via Web GUI =====
#[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Reset]] via WPS or select Factory Default settings. #[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Reset]] via WPS or select Factory Default settings.
#Upload the DD-WRT trailed build ('''N66U big or mega .trx''') using the stock web GUI. #Upload the DD-WRT trailed build ('''N66U big or mega .trx''') using the stock web GUI.
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#[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Hard reset]] or select Factory Default settings. Wait for the router to reboot!! #[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Hard reset]] or select Factory Default settings. Wait for the router to reboot!!
-====Upload via Recovery Utility====+=====Upload via Recovery Utility=====
#Set your computer to a [[Static_IP|static IP]] (e.g. 192.168.1.12), subnet 255.255.255.0, default gateway 192.168.1.1 #Set your computer to a [[Static_IP|static IP]] (e.g. 192.168.1.12), subnet 255.255.255.0, default gateway 192.168.1.1
#Put router into recovery mode by holding down the reset button while powering up the router, wait until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button. #Put router into recovery mode by holding down the reset button while powering up the router, wait until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button.
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#Wait until the router reboots itself, then access the DD-WRT GUI at 192.168.1.1 to set a password. #Wait until the router reboots itself, then access the DD-WRT GUI at 192.168.1.1 to set a password.
-====Switching from Tomato====+=====Switching from Tomato=====
-#Download the latest K3.x mega build. See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware?]] for links.+
#Navigate to the Tomato firmware update page #Navigate to the Tomato firmware update page
#*''Administration'' -> ''Upgrade'' #*''Administration'' -> ''Upgrade''
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#After reboot, set a new user/password #After reboot, set a new user/password
-::Note: Many settings will carry over from Tomato to DD-WRT, but it's highly advisable to reset to factory defaults after flashing, or you risk undesired behavior and instability.+::Note: Reset to factory defaults after flashing from Tomato to DD-WRT to avoid undesired behavior and instability.
=Upgrade to newer DD-WRT= =Upgrade to newer DD-WRT=
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* DD-WRT GUI: ''Administration'' -> ''Firmware upgrade'' * DD-WRT GUI: ''Administration'' -> ''Firmware upgrade''
* [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Asus_RT-N66U#WPS_button_to_Clear_NVRAM Clear settings (Clear NVRAM)] * [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Asus_RT-N66U#WPS_button_to_Clear_NVRAM Clear settings (Clear NVRAM)]
-* svn24461 BRICKS RT-N66U. Recover possible through mini CFE web interface. 
=Revert to original ASUS firmware= =Revert to original ASUS firmware=
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=Notes= =Notes=
-*[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Announcement]: '''Required reading''' for DD-WRT on Broadcom routers! 
-*[https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ Frequently Asked Questions] 
===Performance=== ===Performance===
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* [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31687-asus-rt-n66u-dark-knight-dual-band-wireless-n900-gigabit-router-reviewed SmallNetBuilder Review] * [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31687-asus-rt-n66u-dark-knight-dual-band-wireless-n900-gigabit-router-reviewed SmallNetBuilder Review]
* [http://service.asus.com/demoui/RT-N66U/EN/index.html Asus Stock UI demo] * [http://service.asus.com/demoui/RT-N66U/EN/index.html Asus Stock UI demo]
 +
[[Category:Asus guides]] [[Category:Asus guides]]

Revision as of 01:47, 10 May 2020

This 'Dark Night' presents significant risk to bricking that requires careful adherence to the installation process. However, there is a built-in and robust Recovery Mode. The NVRAM issue has been resolved in newer CFE versions (and K3X builds).

Contents

Hardware Specifications

CPU Broadcom 4706 @ 600MHz
Flash/RAM 32MB / 256MB
Wireless support 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands
Wireless controller Broadcom BCM4331
MIMO config 3x3 (both bands) (see Ref: forum)
ETH chip Broadcom BCM4706
Switch Broadcom BCM53125
Ports Gigabit LAN (4) and WAN (1)
USB 2x USB 2.0
Other Micro SDHC socket (internal)
Power supply DC Output, 19 V, max. 1.58 A current (=> max 30W)
Serial header 8, n, 1, no flow control, 115200.

Reset button for Recovery

Pressing the Reset button (labeled like ' > o < ') at powerup will put the N66U into recovery mode.

  • Press and hold the reset button then plug in power until the power LED starts blinking. Access recovery mode at 192.168.1.1.

WPS button to Clear NVRAM

Pressing the WPS button at powerup will reset (clear NVRAM) to default settings.

  • Press and hold the WPS button while plugging in the power for about ten seconds. All the LEDs should flash, indicating settings have been reset to default settings.

NVRAM issue

IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER!!!
At launch, the RT-N66U was limited to 32k nvram. However, CFE (bootloader) version 1.0.1.3 added 64k nvram support around April 2013, but was not compatible with DD-WRT firmware at that time. For details, see these forum links to historical nvram and 64K implemention discussions: Fractal comments and "RT-N66 CFE Thread"

This was resolved with DD-WRT K3X builds (kernel 3.x) which extended nvram to 64k, and can be used for any CFE version. It was eventually extended to 256k.
More historical info: http://charleswilkinson.co.uk/2012/12/22/dd-wrt-on-the-asus-rt-n66u-with-64k-cfe/
For newer CFE version updates and procedures see here: SNB Forums

CFE Version (or Update)

AsusWRT-Merlin can be installed to enable telnet and check the CFE version, and still be flashed directly to DD.

  • In nvram: nvram get bl_version
  • CFE partition: strings /dev/mtd0ro | grep bl_ver

K3.X Builds

K2.6 Builds

USB (and thus MMC) also does not work in K2.6 builds. USB devices cause a kernel panic: see SVN ticket. Use a K3.x build (see above), which also works around the NVRAM issue.

DD-WRT Alternatives

User Merlin implemented a solution in mid-2012 to extend the original 32k NVRAM CFE to ~60k NVRAM in firmware.

TomatoUSB Shibby also implemented a 64k NVRAM solution for 32K NVRAM CFE in 2012.

Historical Build Information

This is only potentially relevant if using builds from 2015 and earlier.

  • If already running a custom 64K Build like Fractal or Kong with CFE 1.0.1.3, 26138 mega nv64k must be used to upgrade. Since K2.6 Builds have an embedded check, you need to use those special nvXXk trailed images. On K3.X this check has been removed and you can simply upgrade from a previous K3.X.
  • With K3.X Broadcom builds, the CFE version is less concerning since DD-WRT detects it automatically to extend the 32KB limitation.
  • Build 24461 BRICKS the RT-N66U, but recover is possible through the mini CFE web interface.


Installation Instructions

Read the Firmware FAQ, Peacock Announcement, new build, and model-specific threads.

Preparation

Use a *_RT-N66U.trx file for initial flash and upgrades, or only half the memory will be available.

  • IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER
  • Older CFE (32K nvram) can use K2.6: see the above K2.6 and K3.X sections for details

Note: Reset BEFORE and AFTER firmware upload. If upgrading with DD, before is optional.

Upload via Web GUI
  1. Reset via WPS or select Factory Default settings.
  2. Upload the DD-WRT trailed build (N66U big or mega .trx) using the stock web GUI.
  3. Wait until the router reboots itself, which can take at least 10 minutes. Wait for both ping and GUI response.
  4. Hard reset or select Factory Default settings. Wait for the router to reboot!!
Upload via Recovery Utility
  1. Set your computer to a static IP (e.g. 192.168.1.12), subnet 255.255.255.0, default gateway 192.168.1.1
  2. Put router into recovery mode by holding down the reset button while powering up the router, wait until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button.
  3. Access the Asus CFE recovery mode by issuing 192.168.1.1 in browser field.
  4. Browse to select the DD-WRT trailed build (N66U big or mega .trx) then click Upload.
  5. Wait until the router reboots itself, which can take at least 10 minutes.
  6. If it doesn't reboot after 10 minutes, power off for 10 seconds, then reset via WPS
  7. Reset (via WPS) or reenter recovery mode and select to Restore defaults NVRAM values
  8. Wait until the router reboots itself, then access the DD-WRT GUI at 192.168.1.1 to set a password.
Switching from Tomato
  1. Navigate to the Tomato firmware update page
    • Administration -> Upgrade
  2. Upload the firmware you downloaded in step 1
  3. The router will reset several times and change its IP address to the default one (192.168.1.1).
  4. Navigate to http://192.168.1.1/Factory_Defaults.asp
    • The login credentials have been reset to the default dd-wrt username/password (root/admin)
  5. Set "Restore Factory Defaults" to yes and click "Apply Settings"
  6. After reboot, set a new user/password
Note: Reset to factory defaults after flashing from Tomato to DD-WRT to avoid undesired behavior and instability.

Upgrade to newer DD-WRT

Revert to original ASUS firmware

  • Download firmware from ASUS web site
  • Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM
  • Use the DD-WRT web gui: Administration -> Firmware upgrade
  • Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM

Mods

Internal MicroSD card

The N66U has an unused internal MicroSD card slot, but note that USB (and thus MMC) is not supported on K2.6 builds. However, it is working on K3.x builds. See SVN ticket

  1. Open the case
    • Unscrew the four screws at the bottom
    • Then you want to release the plastic clips that holds the top and bottom parts together.
    • Pry the bottom case outward, which has the male clips.
    • For future access, it is recommended to either snip off the female "U" clips on the top cover, or round off the square edges on the male part of the clip with a nail file.
  2. Install MicroSD card
  3. Enable USB features to utilize the MicroSD card

For easier access, see below.

Case Top Mod

Spacers (~1/4" to 10mm) can be installed to elevate the case top, which allows easier access to the MicroSD card, and also improve cooling. A piece of dark foam and hole punch can be used to retain the top cover LED lighting.

Overclocking

Overclocking works since CFE 1.0.1.3, while underclocking worked prior to that. Overclocking may cause instability, or services (like QoS) to behave unpredictably

  • Recommended to improve cooling or ventilation when overclocking, like the case top mod
  • jwh7 has run @663MHz (CFE 1.0.1.9) without issue for 3 years, with an elevated case top
  • There is one report of QoS degradation at 632Mhz with K3.X big r27360 (06/18/15)

Notes

Performance

Test Description                                RT-N66U
WAN - LAN	                                       732 Mbps
LAN - WAN                                         729 Mbps
Total Simultaneous                            810 Mbps
Maximum Simultaneous Connections   34,925
Firmware Version                                3.1.0.3.90  (stock firmware number)

Sources and testing methods

LAN/WAN issue

There should be no vlan0ports in nvram for the N66U switch: [1] and [2]

Links

Primary forum threads

Additional forum threads