Installation

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-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.+{{Languages|Installation}}
 +Installing DD-WRT on a router in most cases is almost as simple as installing a program onto your computer. However, doing it incorrectly can leave you with a router that you have to throw away. 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.
-=Supported Devices= 
-* Allnet 
-** All0277 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=All0277&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-* Askey 
-** RT210W, see flashing notes for Siemens SE505 v1 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=RT210W&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-* Asus 
-** Asus WL-500G deluxe [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Asus+WL-500G+deluxe&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-** Asus WL-500G premium [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Asus+WL-500G+premium&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-** Asus WL-300G [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Asus+WL-300G&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-* Belkin 
-** F5D7130/7330 (2mb flash) [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=F5D7130+OR+F5D7330&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-** F5D7230-4 v1000, v1010, v1111 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=F5D7230-4&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-** F5D7230-4 v1444 (2mb flash) [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=F5D7230-4&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)] 
-* Buffalo+=Choosing the Correct Firmware - '''Extremely Important'''=
-** WHR-G54S [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WHR-G54S&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+==Is Your Router Supported?==
-** WHR-HP-G54 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WHR-HP-G54&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+Please check the [https://dd-wrt.com/support/router-database/ '''router database'''] first.
-** WHR-HP-G54S [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WHR-HP-G54S&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WZR-RS-G54 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WZR-RS-G54&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WVR-G54-NF [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WVR-G54-NF&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WBR-G54 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WBR-G54&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WBR2-G54 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WBR2-G54&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WBR2-G54s [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WBR2-G54s&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WLA-G54 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WLA-G54&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-* Linksys ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrt54g#Hardware_revisions List of WRT54G versions and their hardware capabilities])+
-** WRT54G v1.0, v1.1, v2.0, v2.2, v3.0, v3.1, v4.0, v5.0 (2mb flash), v5.1 (2mb flash), v6.0 (2mb flash) [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WRT54G&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WRT54GL v1.0, v1.1 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WRT54GL&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WRT54GS v1.0, v1.1, v2.0, v2.1, v3.0, v4.0, v5.0 (2mb flash), v5.1 (2mb flash), 6.0 (2mb flash)[http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WRT54GS&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** WRTSL54GS v1.0 (as of 2006-0630 nightly builds)+
-* Microsoft+
-** MN-700 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=MN700&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-* Motorola+
-** WR850G [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=WR850G&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-* Ravo+
-** W54-RT, see flashing notes for Siemens SE505 v1 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=W54-RT&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-* Siemens+
-** Gigaset SE505 [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Gigaset+SE505&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-** Gigaset SX550i [http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Gigaset+SX550i&btnG=Search+Froogle (product search)]+
-Almost all the above wireless routers have at least 4MB of flash memory. All the WRT54GS models prior to the v4.0 have 8MB of flash. Many other routers (including v5.0 of the WRT54G and WRT54GS) have only 2MB of flash memory. The "full" and "mini" versions of DD-WRT requires 4MB to install; the "micro" version requires 2MB.+If your router is not listed there, check the following wiki pages:
-Various other brands and models have been mentioned as supported by BrainSlayer and others in the fora. However, it's not clear (to me) if any of the readily available images will boot on those models, or if you have to ask Brainslayer for them directly, or if you have to grab the sources and build versions yourself. It would be great if someone who did know this would edit this further.+For a list of devices working with DD-WRT, please see '''[[Supported Devices]]'''.
-==Recommended Devices==+For a list of devices '''not''' working with DD-WRT please see '''[[Known incompatible devices]]'''.
-Cheapest 100% Compatible Wireless Router:+
-Buffalo WHR G54s+
-Best 100% Compatible Wireless Router (With really high OC'ing too!):+If your device is supported, you may find specific information in the [[Hardware-specific]] page for your router. However, '''to avoid [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brick_%28electronics%29 Bricking] your router''', please finish reading this entire page first. You will then want to follow what is written for your particular device.
-Asus WL 500G Deluxe+
-Best Price/Performance 100% Compatible Wireless Router:+==Which router should I buy?==
-Buffalo WHR G54s+For a list of recommended devices for installing DD-WRT, please see '''[[Firmware FAQ#Which router should I buy?|Which router should I buy?]]'''
-Fastest DD-WRT Compatible Wireless Router:+==Before You Download, Upgrade, or Flash==
-WRTSL54GS or Asus WL500G Premium. both are shipped with 266 mhz+Before you try to take any actions, including loading any firmware to your router....read the English Broadcom Forum Announcement entitled [https://secure.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Thread] It contains more information than just for those who are having problems. '''BROADCOM ONLY INFO MOSTLY.''' Unfortunately, skipping this step leads many to brick (break) their routers.
-OR, Buffalo WZR-RS-G54. 266Mhz CPU, 8MB flash and 64MB RAM. Please note that if you intend to use your router as a DUAL/MULTI Wan router, do additional research before you purchase the router.+
-For Example, the WZR-RS-G54 does not support DUAL Wan due to the type of Switch installed in the router+
-[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=73 Forum Link #1]<br>+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 [http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/support/other-downloads?path=betas dd-wrt download page] will help you identify the correct "killer" and dd-wrt firmware versions (as applicable) for your device as needed. However, you must use the peacock thread and use the information in the [[Hardware-specific]] page to '''accurately''' identify your hardware and not create a problem that renders your router useless.
-[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=13954 Forum Link #2]<br>+
-[http://forum.bsr-clan.de/ftopic6241.html Forum Link #3]+
-=Flashing=+After you have read THIS page, and gotten some background on the peacock page, the [[Hardware-specific]] page may be the most useful page for you in terms of identifying your router, figuring out what files you need to download (including instructions), and figuring out the correct installation procedures.
-==Precautions for Flashing==+
-Follow all instruction precisely, or you will run into trouble if you don't!+
-*''' Incorrect flashing procedure can [[Glossary#Brick|brick]] your router!'''+==Identifying Your DD-WRT Firmware==
-*''' You CANNOT flash/backup your firmware over a "https" connection!'''+* Use the '''brand-specific information in the [[Hardware-specific]]''' page 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 - [[User:Clock|clock]].
-* Firmware flashes and upgrade should be done over a '''wired''' Ethernet connection.+* As the peacock thread mentions, using the incorrect file is one of the worst things you can do. Fortunately, dd-wrt has simplified this immensely with their search format. Once you have identified your router accurately, you may be able to go straight to [https://secure.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv3/dd-wrt/downloads.html DD-WRT Downloads page] and find the files you need. Again, check the [[Hardware-specific]] page for links to detailed instructions that may indicate how many files you need, etc (- [[User:Clock|clock]]).
-** Flashing via wireless is inherently unstable and can result in a [[Glossary#Brick|bricked]] router.''+* 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.
-* Disable your anti-virus-software, as a false-positive virus detection could interrupt the upload.+** For a '''comparison of the builds''', see [[Version Features]].
-* Disable any wireless adapters on your system to ensure that the upload goes through the wired connection!+** '''Updating through the Web GUI''' (ie, the routers's online interface) means you need to use the ''_generic'' version.
-* You will not have/need internet access from steps 2 through 5.+** 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). The maximum filesizes in Bytes are listed [https://secure.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 here under '''Maximum firmware size''']. (Again, use the download page's search function for help here - [[User:Clock|clock]]).
-* We recommend you save this webpage and the webpages on how to [[Recover from a Bad Flash]] to your hard drive (File - Save Page As, '''*NOT* a bookmark'''). This will allow you to review the information offline in the event that something goes wrong.+* Read the [[Changelog]], the [http://svn.dd-wrt.com/timeline timeline] and all other information files on the download pages. They contain important information!
-===Flashing with TFTP===+==Downloading Your DD-WRT Firmware==
-''Note for users not using the original Linksys firmware: you cannot use tftp! Change your firmware to the official Linksys firmware, and then continue below.''+See: [[Firmware_FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware]]
-Flashing with TFTP must not be seen as the standard procedure for flashing: only use it when you are specifically told to do so (for example in the specific instructions for flashing your brand or type of device).+=Precautions=
 +If still running OEM firmware version on an old router (usually with 2MB flash), a "kill" firmware program file may be required first. The process of installing that firmware is probably covered in the [[Hardware-specific]] page under your device. It will be similar to simply repeating the overall installation process below, but using the specific "kill" file.
-Normally, the GUI flashing method should be used: it should be perfectly adequate for any standard situation. See that section for more information.+Follow all the instructions precisely, or you may run into trouble. '''Incorrectly flashing can [[Glossary#Brick|brick]] your router!'''
-===Flashing with Web GUI===+'''NOTE:''' See [[Web_interface#Username_and_Password|Web Interface - Username and Password]] for information about valid password characters.
-[Comment: I can't tell whether this is for the DD-WRT GUI or the Linksys GUI! I need to know in order to revise the inaccuracies either way --[[User:Jgoldberg|Jgoldberg]] 03:29, 1 May 2006 (CEST)]+
-Comment: For some of us with WRTG54G v5, it is impossible to use the GUI method (or any other flash method described in this doc and its references), since going to <nowiki>http://192.168.1.1</nowiki> we get [http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e250/dvdwrght/config_screen.jpg no usable web interface]. --[[User:Matyi|Matyi]] 05:49, 4 Sep 2006 (CEST)+=='''Do Prior Research'''==
 +Read the [[Firmware_FAQ|Firmware FAQ]].
-'''1) Download firmware'''+#Failing to prepare and do your background research can cause considerable frustration, wasted time, and render your router useless (bricked). In other words, you may have to literally throw it away and/or spend a lot of time recovering it. With some research, you'll save hours of time and frustration.
-* Download the latest stable release [http://www.dd-wrt.com/]+#It is recommended that you first read your specific device wiki, if available. For Broadcom devices read the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486] Peacock announcement] as a pre-ARM reference.
-* Read the changelog and all other information files on the download pages. They contain important information!+#Be careful about implementation (actually flashing) on this wiki as compared to what is recommended as a guide for your router under [[Hardware-specific]]. However, reviewing this wiki will be important for overall understanding.
-* Ensure you are using the correct version of the firmware release (updating through the Web GUI means you need to use the ''_generic'' version, as mentioned briefly in the hwsupport.txt file).+
-** '''Note:''' Use the ''_mini'' version when upgrading from original Linksys firmware!+
-* If you downloaded a .zip file, then extract the archive.+
-* Confirm good download by comparing the MD5 hash fingerprint of the firmware you downloaded with published [[Hashes]].+
-'''2a) Reset to [[Factory Defaults]] through the Web GUI'''<br>+=='''General'''==
-''If you forgot the password or IP of your router, proceed to step 2b.''+#Do not skip resets before or after firmware updates unless you know what you're doing.
-* Log into the Web GUI of the router. Type in the address of the router (default 192.168.1.1) into the address bar of your browser.+#Do NOT flash your firmware over an SSL (HTTPS) connection. Make sure you are using HTTP.
-* You will be prompted for username and password. Username is not required (for versions >= 2006-Feb-28, username is ''root''). Enter password (default password is ''admin'') and you should be at the [[Web Interface]] of your router.+=='''Prepare to Go Offline'''==
-* Click the "Administration" tab.+#You will not have internet access through the router during the process of replacing the firmware. You are going to do almost everything offline with a LAN connection to your router (how to [[Settings#Disable Wireless|Disable your wireless]]). Given the many types of problems you can encounter that can prohibit you from getting help, the process of reactivating and deactivating your [[Security|security settings]] if you actually can get back online, and the likelihood for browser crashes if you try to just keep the pages up, '''you will need to download everything you need before you start'''. This will allow you to review the information offline in the event that something goes wrong.
-* Click the "Factory Defaults" sub-tab.+#Windows Vista users may need to [[Settings#Disable Compound TCP|Disable Compound TCP]].
-* Select "Yes".+#Note or screenshot the current settings for future reference, especially if you have static IP addresses.
-* Click the "Save Settings" button.+## It can be essential to record your current WAN MAC address. Some ISPs do not allow an immediate change of the routing hardware without a phone call. Check the GUI and router label for the WAN MAC.
-* A new page will open, click "continue".+# 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.
 +#Recommended: PDF or save the following for offline reference e.g. ''File''->''Save As'' to html ('''NOT a bookmark''')
 +#*The installation page for your specific router as found though the [[Hardware-specific]] page.
 +#*The [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486] Peacock announcement.
 +#*This [[Installation]] wiki.
 +#*[[Recover_from_a_Bad_Flash|Recover from a Bad Flash]].
 +#*FAQs [http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ]
 +#*Tftp Flash instruction [http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Tftp_flash] if applicable. It describes how you may have to enable Tftp, which is very quick and easy (just one check box). You may need to be prepared to use Tftp even if you do not plan to use it.
 +#*The Wikipedia instructions for [[Settings# Disable Compound TCP|Compound TCP]], if applicable (Vista, etc), available at: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compound_TCP].
 +#In addition, you will probably also need:
 +#*The Tftp.exe file, if applicable (execute it from the Tftp [http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Tftp_flash] link above, and just leave it open).
 +#*First ("killer") flash file, if applicable.
 +#*Second (DD-WRT) flash file. (In some cases, this may be the only file you need.)
-'''2b) Reset to [[Factory Defaults]] Using the Reset Button'''<br>+=='''Going Offline/Before Implementation'''==
-* Press and hold the reset button on the back of the router for 30 seconds. This will clear your NVRAM, the configuration and reset the username/password pair to ''root''/''admin''.+#Do NOT use a wireless connection to GUI upload firmware. Use a wired (LAN) connection.
 +#Disable any wireless adapters (see the [[Settings#Disable Wireless|right way to do it]]) on your system to ensure that none are used for the transfer.
 +#Recommended: AFTER you are offline, disable your anti-virus software, as as a false positive detection could interrupt the upload. Disable all firewalls and security (see [[Security|Disable Security]]. Restore security measures before going back online.
-* 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.+=Flashing Your Router with DD-WRT Firmware=
 +Three methods of flashing are covered below: using the router's online interface (Method 1), via TFTP ([[#Method 2: Flashing with TFTP|Method 2]]), and with the Command Line Interface ([[#Method 3: Flashing with Command Line|Method 3]] - '''use this if wirelessly connected'''). The router model and/or location may dictate what you use.
-'''3) Send in the Firmware!'''+==Method 1: Flashing with Web GUI ==
-<div style='color:red;text-align:center;font-weight:bold'>It is VERY important that you do not interrupt the setup while the router is being flashed/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.</div>+These instructions are very generic. Search the wiki, [[Supported Devices]], and [https://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas DD-WRT download page] for your specific device.
-* Use Internet Explorer as the Linksys firmware has many incompatibilities with Mozilla Firefox, in particular in the firmware upgrade section (although this is *REALLY* hard to do if you are a Linux user, and can't convince Microsoft to make a version of internet exploder for you).+
-* Again, you should be in the Web GUI of the router. Go there now.+
-* Click the "Administration" tab+
-* Click the "Firmware Upgrade" sub-tab.+
-* Click the "No reset" radio button (''works for me, but please double check if "Firmware Defaults" would be better!'').+
-* Click the "Browse" button and select the DD-WRT .bin file you extracted in step 1.+
-* Click the "Upgrade" button.+
-* The router will take a few minutes to upload the file, flash the firmware, and then reset.+
-* A new page will open, '''<font color=red>wait about 5 minutes</font>''' before clicking "Continue".+
-* If flashed successfully you will now be at the DD-WRT web interface.+
-'''4) Reset to factory defaults AGAIN'''+#'''Reset your router'''
-* Repeat step 2a or 2b above. '''Note:''' Step 2b (the manual way of clearing the NVRAM) is recommended to make sure the radio gets the correct parameters.+##This is probably not needed, but if the memory or nvram is almost full, a firmware update can brick it. Thus it is recommended at least until are familiar with the particular device.
-'''For V23 SP2''': If certain features don't work please do a hard reset. Hard Reset: By plugging in the router and holding down the reset button for 30 seconds all at the same time. Do not use config files from older firmware versions. You must start from the beginning.+##See [[Reset And Reboot]] and note the default IP address. If not listed on the router label see [wikidevi.com Wikidevi]
 +##Perform a GUI reset (''Administration''->''[[Factory Defaults]]'' in DD-WRT) or use an alternate method:
 +##*[[Hard reset or 30/30/30|Hard reset]]. <font color=darkred>WARNING: some devices should not use 30/30/30, including all ARM devices.</font>
 +##*Reset button: with the router running normally, hold the reset button until the lights flash (or up to 30 sec). Be careful when using this method! Research the functionality of your current firmware to be safe.)
 +#'''Log in to the Web GUI'''
 +##Javascript is required for the Web interface. Try a different browser if having issues.
 +##Access the GUI via the router IP address. The default for DD-WRT and many devices is [192.168.1.1], or see [wikidevi.com Wikidevi]. If the IP address is unknown, see [[Obtaining Router IP]]. If still having issues, [[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30#Erasing_NVRAM|erase the nvram]].
 +## You will be prompted for username and password. (If your router 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 routers).
 +#'''Upload the Firmware'''
 +##'''NOTE:''' Multiple flashes may be needed if flashing from OEM firmware. See the [[Firmware_FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|FAQ download file details]].
 +## '''WARNING:<span style="color:#FF0000">DO 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!'''</span>
 +##This section is written for the DD-WRT GUI. An OEM firmware interface will be different. See [[#Precautions|Precautions]].
 +### Click the "Administration"->"Firmware Upgrade" tab.
 +###Optional: select the option to Reset to Defaults after flashing (NOTE: this can cause flashing issues)
 +###Click the "Browse" button and select the DD-WRT .bin file you downloaded and confirmed.
 +###Click the "Upgrade" button and wait for a redirect page confirming successful upload.
 +###Now '''<font color=red>wait at least 5 minutes</font>''' before clicking "Continue". This varies with the hardware.
 +### If flashed successfully you will now be able to access the DD-WRT web interface at [192.168.1.1].
 +#'''Reset Again'''
 +##Do this '''only''' after you have confirmed that the firmware upgrade is working.
 +##'''This is required if flashing from OEM firmware!''' See the above section again.
 +##For DD-WRT upgrades, this should only be needed if making large build jumps, changing kernel version (e.g. 2.4 to 2.6 or 2.6 to 3.10), or if having issues. For the latter, reset, retest, and then search the forum before making a new post.
 +#'''Possible Errors with Uploading Firmware'''
 +##If the DD-WRT web interface is not accessible after 10 minutes, try clearing the browser cache, renewing the IP address ("ipconfig -renew" in a Windows command prompt window), another reset, or power cycle.
 +##Ping the router: a TTL=64 response indicates normal operation, while TTL=100 usually indicates a TFTP server awaiting firmware upload. TFTP usually only is available in the first couple seconds at power-up, and may time out if the file upload is larger than OEM versions. See [[Tftp_flash]], and note only OEM firmware may work for TFTP, possible trailed builds.
 +##Search the forum, wiki, [[Supported Devices]], and [https://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas DD-WRT download page] for your specific device.
 +##The firmware upload process may respond with "Upload Failed" if using the wrong file type, kernel, or size of DD-WRT (or may just brick). E.g. This may occur through the web GUI if you use a *wrt54g.bin version when you should have selected the generic version. It may also be that your router requires the mini version to be flashed ''before'' the full version. Ensure you have the right version, as described in the first section.
 +##See [[Recover from a Bad Flash]] or try a different internet browser to upload the firmware.
 +##If logging in fails with the default username/password, reset again.
-'''5) Enjoy'''+==Method 2: Flashing with TFTP==
-* It is strongly advised that you enable the "Boot Wait" option under the "Administration" tab. This will help you recover in the future should you flash your router improperly. If you use v23 or higher the "Boot Wait" option is enabled by default.+TFTP is generally a safe method to flash many routers. However, it is not preferred method for flashing most devices. In the [[Hardware-specific]] section you may be advised to use this method if it is the preferred or only method for your brand or type of device. 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.
-'''6) Something go wrong?+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 router appears to be (but is not) bricked.
-* 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 [http://forum.bsr-clan.de/search.php forum search].+
-===Flashing with Command Line===+If you still wish to flash with TFTP, see the articles [[TFTP flash]], [[Asus TFTP Flash]] and [[Recover from a Bad Flash#Recovering with TFTP|Recovering with TFTP]].
-1) [http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Telnet/SSH_and_the_Command_Line telnet or ssh] into WRT+
-2) download dd-wrt.v2*_'''generic'''.bin with [http://www.cbi.pku.edu.cn/Doc/CS/wget/man.wget.html wget] or [http://winscp.net/ scp] to /tmp+==Method 3: Flashing with Command Line==
 +This is only available on routers that already have DD-WRT installed and Telnet/SSH enabled. It is the *ONLY* recommended method to upgrade the router ''wirelessly'' because the file is transferred from the DD-WRT servers to the router and the checksum is verified to ensure that the file is not corrupt. Other flashing methods transfer the file from your PC to the router (which would go over the wireless which is not as reliable) and do nothing to verify that the file is not corrupted.
 +'''NOTE: Builds after 47381 do not have ftp support compiled in to busybox wget; use curl intead.'''
-3) ''(optional, but advised)'' [http://www.research.att.com/~gsf/man/man1/md5sum.html compare MD5 checksum] of the original and the downloaded file+First [[Telnet/SSH and the Command Line|Telnet or ssh]] into DD-WRT.
-4) write+'''1a.''' Download the firmware to the router's /tmp directory with wget (http or ftp), curl (http or ftp), scp, or a mounted share.
 +<pre>cd /tmp
 +wget http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware}</pre>
 +Or:
 +<pre>curl http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} -o {firmware}</pre>
 +*The ''{platform}'' refers to architecture or router model and version. See [[#Downloading_Your_DD-WRT_Firmware]] for details.
-<pre>write /tmp/dd-wrt.v2*_generic.bin linux</pre>+Note: To download from login/password protected sites (like BS' ftp for testers), use the following syntax:
 +<pre>wget ftp://{login}:{password}@{download location}/{firmware}</pre>
 +Or:
 +<pre>curl -u {login}:{password} ftp://{download location}/{firmware} -o {firmware}</pre>
-5) wait...+'''1b.''' ''Optional:'' [[Hashes|Compare the MD5 checksum]] ['''obsolete'''] of the original and the downloaded file.<br>
 +*For modern builds, one can also download the file to another directory (or device) and check the md5sum for both downloads:
 + md5sum {firmware}
-6) reboot+'''2.''' Now ''write'' the firmware to flash ('''do NOT''' use ''mtd write''):
 + write {firmware} linux &
 +*The ampersand backgrounds the ''write'' command to protect against connection loss, as the shell would otherwise abort it.
-7) '''(optional, but advised)''' via web interface, restore factory defaults+Note: some routers can have more than one firmware partition: e.g. ''linux'' and ''linux2''
 +*For an example on how to check and switch boot partitions, see [[Linksys_EA6900#Boot_Partitions|here]].
-8) '''For V23 SP2''': If certain features don't work please do a hard reset. Hard Reset: By plugging in the router and holding down the reset button for 30 seconds all at the same time. Do not use config files from older firmware versions. You must start from the beginning.+'''3.''' ''Optional:'' Reset nvram (if having issues or for large version changes) via ''erase nvram'' '''or''' ''nvram erase''
 +The latter is for builds after 18 Apr 2018 (35770 and later). See [[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30#Erasing_NVRAM|Erasing NVRAM]] for details.
-==Flashing the WRT54Gv4/WRT54GL==+'''4.''' When completed without error, finally:
-Only DD-WRT versions 23 or higher will support the WRT54Gv4. Neither device supports flashing the ''std'' or ''voip'' versions of DD-WRT from the original Linksys firmware (Linksys limited the maximum firmware size to 3 MBytes). Therefore, only the MINI version of DD-WRT can be flashed initially. Once DD-WRT ''mini'' is installed, you can upgrade to ''std'' or ''voip'' versions. When using the Web GUI, use the *_generic.bin types when upgrading. If the Web GUI is unavailable, use tftp in combination with the special *_wrt54g.bin files. Remember to reset to factory defaults before '''and''' after every flashing.+
- +
-[[WRT54G v4 Installation Tutorial]]+
- +
-''[Comment added 26/06/06 by Elvey]]''+
-Firefox works fine when flashing and using this router. I've flashed and set up 2 WRT54GL's, with Firefox, and had no problems. I've no idea what incompatibilities others are talking about (mentioned below).+
- +
-''[Comment added 10/08/06 by blkadder]]''+
- +
-I'd like to second the trouble-free Firefox experience. I used Firefox 1.5.0.4 on a SUSE 10.1 machine with no problem.+
- +
-''[Comment added 04/09/06 by Orv]]''+
- +
-I ran into no problems while flashing dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin onto my WRT54GL v. 1.1. I used Firefox 1.5.0.6 under Windows XP with no problems.+
- +
-''[Comment added 24/06/06 by msc_buff]]''+
-I ran into serious port forward problems with my GL v1.1. I reread the flash procedure here and used the '30 second reset' with the button instead of the WebGUI and it fixed my problem. Not sure what the difference between a soft reset and a hard reset is but I will stick with what worked for me.+
- +
-''[Comment added 22/09/06 by ITBeast]]''+
-I successfully flashed a WRT54GL Ver 1.1 loaded w/stock Linksys firmware with DD-WRT standard version (V23sp2)using the Installation Tutorial above. The only slight difference from my experience than the tutorial was I did not see any success or fail message, It came up with a "continue" button and when clicked got a blank screen in the IE browser. Rebooted the PC to clear the old IP out of PC's DNS and upon completed reboot was able to login to the new DD-WRT screen. The only other devation was I bypassed the "Mini" version and went straight to the "Standard" (by accident) with No problems.+
- +
-''[Comment added 23/09/06 by Ullapra]''+
-After flashing my WRT54GL to v23 SP2 I was unable to access the web administration page at first. It turned out that the httpd process was crashing every time I tried to access it. I found this workaround in the forums and it fixed the issue:+
- nvram set language=english +
- nvram commit +
reboot reboot
-After the reboot my httpd was back and running. I suspect that the initial error was caused because I hadn't explicitly reset to factory defaults (I assumed that the just-out-of-the-box router would already be at default). The original thread is [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=24929&sid=e8c29379c0fe8f5a305cbd9aa0deee10 HTTP device admin not responding] 
-''[Comment added 10/10/06 by DKMort]''+==Other Notes==
-Successful after some worries of having bricked the router. I first tried to upgrade straight out of the box to the alchemy std firmware (I wasn't thinking straight on the distro. I'm just getting into this, and want to try both before I decide which one I'm gonna use). Anyway, I didn't do any factory reset on it before hand. It said upgrade failed. After looking at this wiki, I realized that I probably needed to first use the mini or micro firmware, then go to the std. So I downloaded dd-wrt v23 SP2 mini & flashed. Again, no firmware update beforehand (I hadn't read the wiki carefully enough). After flashing, it said successful, but when I tried to access the web gui, I just got a blank white page. At this point I thought I bricked my router. After looking at this wiki more carefully, I saw all of the recommendations to reset the firmware on the device. So I did a factory-reset with the button on the back. Ta-da! That fixed it, and I was able to get into the web gui (which I might add, looks pretty nice). From there I followed the tutorial concerning the proper upgrade procedure to take it from the mini to the standard firmware (including all factory resets both from the gui & using the button on the unit). Everything worked fine. However after finally flashing it with the generic standard firmware, then a factory reset from the web gui, then a reset using the back button, it did exhibit a strange behavior. The power LED just blinked & blinked for like 10 minutes. Finally I just pressed the reset button again, and it stopped blinking, and I was able to get into it. I don't know whether this is by design. Anyway, it makes me a little bit nervous to do these resets, but so far, so good. Now to actually use this thing!+=== 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_flash|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!
-==Flashing the WRT54GSv4==+===If you can't wget the firmware===
-The WRT54GSv4 does not support flashing the std or voip version of DD-WRT from the original Linksys firmware, because they limited the maximum firmware size to 3 MByte (as noted below). '''Use only the mini version of DD-WRT for the WRT54GSv4 on the initial flash load. Failure to due so may cause the upgrade to abort.''' Afterwards you can upgrade to the std or voip versions of the firmware through the web-interface of DD-WRT. Interestingly after flashing 4 WRTGSv4 routers with the "v4mini" flash rom, I had to use the file for WRT54GS '''without''' v4 for upgrading to std / voip, else the update would abort with "Upgrade are failed". Remember to reset to factory defaults before and after every flashing. *NOTE* At least this true of the most current (27.10.05-dd-wrt.v23.beta2) rom.+'''NOTE:'''On routers without OpenSSL (e.g. 4MB models), the https link won't work: use HTTP or FTP.
-''[Comment added 11/01/06 by bigbloke of cownet.org]''+If you don't ordinarily use DNSmasq for local DNS (perhaps because you run another DNS server), then the CLI commands may not be able to resolve addresses, so wget may fail. This can be hard to troubleshoot since the busybox commands don't return errors. Possible workarounds:
-Today I purchased a 'GS V4 not having read this note previously. It flashed V23 standard perfectly first time from the specific file (dd-wrt.v23_wrt54gsv4.bin) therefore there may be some additional factors influencing this) - I hope this is useful feedback+
-''[Comment added 12/01/06 by Mart]''+* Enable DNSmasq just while getting the file
-I just purchased a GS V4 too. After reading bigbloke's note, i decided to try skip the warning and directly flash V23 VPN from the (dd-wrt.v23_vpn_generic.bin) file without any problems too. I simply followed the "right way to flash" instructions step by step. Looks like the warning mentioned above does not apply with this version.+
- +
-''[Comment added 18/01/06 by Macks]''+
-I can second the above, just flashed a GSv4 from Linksys original and used dd-wrt.v23_vpn_wrt54gsv4.bin without problems, directly without going via the mini.+
- +
-''[Comment added 22/01/06 by JD]''+
-I can confirm the statement from Macks. Two days ago I bought also a 'GS v4' and I flashed it with the v23 standard without problems (directly without going via the mini)+
- +
-''[Comment added 19/02/06 by markusk]''+
-and i did it that way as well and after that got the weirdest behaviour of a router i've ever seen, mainly giving something like unstable wan-connection by going with high traffic over the router (be it via bittorrent, icq-filetransfers and similar).. unfortunately reflashing with mini and then a "big" one didn't help at all..+
- +
-''[Comment added 28/02/06 by mfb]''+
-Like Macks I flashed my 'GS v4' with v23 vpn direct, without mini first - working fine, no problems.+
- +
-''[Comment added 05/03/06 by PhoneBoy]''+
-On my WRT54GSv3, I found that the device wouldn't take ANY firmware unless I reset it using the button rather than just factory reset from the web interface. Word of warning.+
- +
-''[Comment added 10/03/06 by JoE]''+
-At the time of this writing, the current version of '''Mozilla Firefox will cause your installation to fail''' when trying to upgrade firmware (dd-wrt.v23_mini_wrt54g.bin, dd-wrt.v23_generic.bin, dd-wrt.v23_wrt54g.bin) using the web interface. I used the current version of Internet Explorer with no problems. Additionally, if your '''power button keeps flashing''' and/or you '''cannot reach/ping 192.168.1.1''' after a reset, unplug and plug in the power cord real quick. Wait a few seconds and then everything is hunky dory.+
- +
-''[Comment added 09/04/06 by zonk]''+
-I also can confirm the above statements of flashing two fresh bought WRT54GS v4 routers using the vpn version (v23) instead of the mini version. I used Firefox 1.5 and Opera 7.5 without any failed message. Both routers run stable.+
- +
-''[Comment added 04/06/06 by [http://www.motiwala.com Yusuf Motiwala]]''+
-I too can confirm that it can be upgraded directly to standard version. Even after reading this, I experimented upgrading my WRT54GSv4 directly with v23 SP1 standard image without any problem. May be stated limitation is firmware version dependent. At the time of upgrade, my linksys stock firmware version was 1.5.2.+
- +
-''[Comment added 05/07/06 by Kizane]''+
-'''DD-WRT v23 IE7 Beta 2 Error!''' I noticed some weird error while managing a WRT54GSv4 with DD-WRT V23 via IE7b2. For some reason, it cuts off the top of the area where all the settings are. I opened the control panel with Firefox 1.5.0.4, and it has no errors. [http://www.likwid-kaneo.com/storage/random_pictures/other_hosting/ddwrt_ie7b.jpg IE7b2 Screenshot]+
- +
-''[Comment added 05/07/06 by Kizane]''+
-'''Solution to above comment.''' Note that I upgraded to DD-WRT v23 SP1 Final (via Firefox 1.5.0.4 with zero problems!) and the problem has vanished!+
- +
- +
-''[Comment added 07/08/06 by Wayland]''+
-I found it best to start with factory settings before flashing WRT54GL for the first time+
- +
-==Flashing the WRT54G(S) Version 5==+
-[[Flash Your Version 5 WRT54G]]+
- +
-==Flashing the Buffalo WHR-G54S, WHR-HP-G54 and WZR-RS-G54==+
- +
-Use only v23 SP1 final or later. Older releases may cause trouble!+
- +
-# For thoroughness, reset to [[Factory Defaults|factory defaults]] by holding the reset button while plugging in the router. Hold for '''at least''' 30 seconds. Unplug the router.+
-# Connect your computer directly to one of the LAN ports on the router. (You can use a regular cable or crossover).+
-# Because the Buffalo starts up with 192.168.11.1(or 192.168.12.1 for WZR-RS-G54), your computer's IP needs to be in the 192.168.11.0/24 subnet (e.g. 192.168.11.2, mask 255.255.255.0 or 192.168.12.2, mask 255.255.255.0 for WZR-RS-G54). You will have to set a static IP. '''A static IP is critical for the tftp procedure to work; a dynamic IP won't work even if the dynamic IP is currently set in the proper subnet.''' For Windows XP, the following screen shots should help. After selecting "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)," click on the Properties button to open the next screen. Then enter the info as shown and click 'OK'. Leave Default Gateway '''blank'''.[[Image:LAN_Properties_-_XP.jpg]]+
-# Open a command window. Go to Start->Run->"cmd". +
-# Change your directory to the folder containing the firmware image. (Ex. <code>cd "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop"</code> (if you saved the .bin file to the Desktop)+
-# Type <code>tftp -i 192.168.11.1 PUT (file name of firmware image)</code> like: <code>tftp -i 192.168.11.1 PUT dd-wrt.v23_generic.bin</code>. (For WZR-RS-G54 use 192.168.12.1 as the router IP.) '''Do not press enter yet.'''+
-# Grab the power cable to the router (should be unplugged), now, hit Enter to start the TFTP transfer and immediately connect the power to the Buffalo.+
-# All port LEDs will illuminate.+
-# The LED on the LAN port will flash rapidly for about 6 seconds. The command will complete with a success printout, like <code>Transfer successful: 3502080 bytes in 5 seconds, 700416 bytes/s</code>+
-# The router will reboot and then boot DD-WRT, '''wait until the bridge/diagnostic light turns off.'''+
-# At this point, the router is ready to use. There is no need to reboot it (unplug/plug), although this is a safe precaution.+
-# The router will be now be accessible on 192.168.1.1 netmask 255.255.255.0. You will need to change your IP to this range to access it for configuration. ''(For the WB2-G54, the router is still accessible at 192.168.11.1).''+
-# The username is 'root' and the password is 'admin'.+
- +
-'''TFTP instructions for Linux or OS X'''+
-# 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).+
-#* Download a copy of these instructions so that they are available to you during the procedure.+
-#* If working with the WZR-RS-G54 router, then be sure to replace all instances of 192.168.11.1 with 192.168.12.1+
-#* Most importantly, review all of these procedures before attempting them.+
-# 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.''+
-# Execute the tftp command and change the mode to binary.+
-# Type out but '''don't''' execute the connect 192.168.11.1 command.+
-# Then, using a text editor, or this web page, copy (crtl+c) the following PUT command so that it can be quickly pasted into the terminal window once you connect to the Buffalo Router: <code>PUT dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin.</code>. ''The cut and paste routine is important so that the procedure is completed before the connection times out.''+
-# Now that you are ready, here we go: +
-## Unplug the power cord and then plug it back in to reboot the router.+
-## When the router is plugged back into power, all of the LEDs on the ethernet ports will turn on.+
-## Once the LEDs turn off on all ports except the connected port, hit enter on the connect command, then immediatly paste (crtl+v) the PUT command into the terminal and hit enter.+
-## The terminal will return with the number of bytes sent and the time that the transfer took in seconds.+
- +
- +
-You may be able to execute multiple commands using && operator. Also, be sure to remember to use 192.168.12.1 for the WZR-RS-G54 router and to change to the directory that you downloaded the 'dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin' file into before proceeding the this firmware update. Finally, here is a recap of all the commands: +
<pre> <pre>
-$ cd /path/to/dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin/directory+nvram set dns_dnsmasq=1
-$ tftp+stopservice dnsmasq
-tftp> binary+startservice dnsmasq
-tftp> connect 192.168.11.1+nvram set dns_dnsmasq=0
-tftp> put dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin+
</pre> </pre>
-'''An alternative tftp command for Linux (use either this one or the sequence above, but not both):'''+* Use nslookup on another host to get the IP address of ftp.dd-wrt.com, then download from <pre>ftp://<ip>/<path></pre>
 +** Note: HTTP won't work (the download1 vhost needs the "Host" header to give you the file, and the stripped-down DD-WRT wget doesn't have the --header option).
 + 
 +* You can optionally use the following workaround as well:
<pre> <pre>
-tftp 192.168.11.1 -m binary -c put dd-wrt.v23_generic.bin +cd /tmp
 +echo "nameserver {ip of your local nameserver / gateway router}" > /tmp/resolv.conf
 +wget http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware}</pre>
 +OR
 +<pre>
 +curl http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} -o {firmware}
</pre> </pre>
-Note: OS X's built-in tftp comman does not support this one command shot+OR
- +
- +
-# Type in the last line (don't hit enter yet!), power on the router, wait for the LED's to turn off, ''then'' hit <ENTER>.+
-* The 'status' command is a bit misleading in this sense. The router should actually be powered off at this point.+
- +
-'''Limitations/Notes'''+
-* Once you flash to DD-WRT on the Buffalo WHR-G54S/WHR-HP-G54/WZR-RS-G54 and you, for whatever reason, want to flash back to the Buffalo firmware, look in the downloads section of dd-wrt.com in the "buffalo factory revert" folder for unencrypted firmware that will load from the DD-WRT gui. The WHR-HP-G54 image is the German version. Download the English version from Buffalo's site. Flash the German version and use that to flash the English version.+
-* A hidden LED behind the front panel will blink. 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.+
-* In firmware v23 SP1, the router will restart with IP 192.168.1.1/255.255.255.0+
-* It is not necessary to use the two-step flash process as with some WRT54Gs. The Buffalo will accept the entire generic image in one shot.+
-* For subsequent upgrades/downgrades of DD-WRT, use the web interface of DD-WRT. See [[#Steps to Flash Through Web GUI|Steps to Flash Through Web GUI]].+
- +
-'''Additional to WHR-HP-G54 - Changing boardflags'''+
-* Telnet to router. Telnet is a network command environment. Open a telnet session in windows by typing <code>telnet 192.168.1.1</code> in a command window.+
-* The username is 'root', password 'admin'+
-* Enter the following commands+
-<pre>nvram show | grep boardflags +
-boardflags=0x1758+
- +
-~ #+
-</pre>+
-*if you have 0x1758, change it to 0x2758 +
-*Use this code:+
- +
<pre> <pre>
-nvram set boardflags=0x2758 +curl --ipv4 http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} --output {firmware}
-nvram commit +
-reboot +
</pre> </pre>
-* This setting appears to turn on a feature on the HP receive side, dramatically increasing receive capability.+===Configuration Notes===
-* This feature is not saved with the GUI Backup, so must be redone after every instance of going to default.+* You must start to configure router from scratch. Do not try to use config files from older firmware versions.
- +
-'''Troubleshooting'''+
-* If you experience problems a switch 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 :+
-<pre>mtd erase nvram</pre>+
-* Option 2 : (taken from [http://wiki.openwrt.org/Faq#head-71cacf8460752af3f5771d2fae54923ded5beb9c OpenWrt FAQ])+
-<pre>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+
-</pre>+
-* Search for posts in the forum containing "WHR-G54S" and the problem you are having.+
-** If you have bricked the router, go to the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/ forums]. search for "WHR-G54S bricked". There are enough debricking threads, you don't need to start your own.+
- +
-==Flashing Other Buffalo Devices==+
-[[Flash Your Buffalo WBR-G54, WLA-G54, ...]]+
-also includes ''' WBR2-G54, WBR2-G54S'''+
- +
-==Flashing the Belkin F5D7230-4 v3xxx and Lower== +
-As this belkin router comes in several versions, this firmware build will only work for belkin router models up to v4000. Version 4000 and higher appear to be based on the TI chipset found in the WRT54GC. v1000, and v1111, have 4mb flash roms while v1444 has only a 2mb flash. You must tftp flash the router with the 2mb micro firmware. If you have a 4mb model, you can reflash the router with the full version generic firmware from within the routers web interface once you've followed this procedure. Unless you need the extra features, it is best to stick with the micro firmware since it is known to work better with this router.<br>+
-<br>+
-# Download the latest micro firmware (dd-wrt.v23_micro_generic as of this writing)+
-# Reset router to factory defaults. Unplug the router.+
-# Connect your computer directly to one of the LAN ports on the router.+
-# The router starts up with IP address 192.168.2.1. Set your computers IP address manually to the following setting: IP Address: 192.168.2.2, Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0, Default Gateway: leave blank. For more help with this step, study the instructions for the Buffalo router located above.+
-# Go to Start->Run->"cmd" and press Enter.+
-# Change your directory to the folder containing the firmware image. Ex. <code>cd "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop"</code>+
-# Type <code>tftp -i 192.168.2.1 PUT (file name of firmware image)</code> For example: <code>tftp -i 192.168.2.1 PUT dd-wrt.v23_micro_generic.bin</code>. '''Do not press enter yet.''' +
-# Connect the power to the Belkin.+
-# All port LEDs will illuminate.+
-# 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.+
-# 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.+
-# Power cycle the router. (unplug the power, wait a few seconds, plug it back in).+
-# Set your IP address back to automatic (DHCP), or set it to something begining with 192.168.1.+
-# The router is now accessible at http://192.168.1.1/+
-# The username is 'root' and the password is 'admin'+
-# Enjoy your dd-wrt router+
- +
-'''Alternative for Flashing F5D7230-4'''+
- +
-If you don't enjoy spending hours, powering your Belkin router up and down. You can can try this procedure that worked for my v1444:+
- +
-# Follow steps listed in the method above until you finish the part where you set your computer's IP to 192.168.2.2+
-# Goto www.linksys.com and goto their download page. (You may want to do this first before you reset to the factory defaults in case resetting screws up your internet connection.)+
-# Download the firmware for BEFW11S4 - EtherFast Wireless AP + Cable/DSL Router w/4-Port Switch.+
-# Extract the tftp.exe program from the zip file.+
-# Start tftp program and set server to: 192.168.2.1 and for the file part, put the location of your "dd-wrt.v23_micro_generic.bin" file. +
-# Set retries to 20.+
-# Powerup router.+
-# 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.+
- +
-This method caught the Belkin narrow tftp window on retry #11 vs. my 0 catches after 40 some tries using the power up and down method. Not sure if this will work on other version of the F5D7230-4. From what I have seen with my router, a successful installation will change the LEDs on the Belkin. WLAN LED does not work. Power LED will work and connected WAN LED will blink green. Good luck.+
- +
- +
-After more than 50 unsuccessful attempts to flash my v1444 router I finally flashed my router using the alternative method described above, but only after using a hub or switch to connect the computer and the Belkin unit. All of my attempts with a direct connection between the router and the computer resulted in a timeout, but by using a hub or switch I had success on the first try. When trying to flash with a direct connection from the computer to the Belkin, it will never work. The connection fails when the router is unpluged or reset. By the time the connection is re-established, the Belkin is too far along in the boot process to accept the upgrade. So if you are having difficulty, like I did for so long, try the above method with a hub or switch connecting one of the lan ports of the router to the computer.+
- +
-Seth7 ---------+
- +
-I have a V2000 that would take the dd-wrt -- but have no wan/lan .. wireless was ok ..+
-after trying sujestions from the board.. iv decided that forcing it to client mode ...and not having a way to change settings after the client mode was set.. was pointless....+
-I flashed it back to the original firmware and is working fine as a AP +
- +
--------------+
-I have a v3000 and tried the Linksys TFTP method described above. It appeared to work first time but the power led would flash intermittently and I could not get to the router config page. I could still ping the router so I tried the same TFTP program to revert to the original Belkin firmware. Again it appeared to work first time but now the power light flashed continually and the router is, I suspect, totally trashed.+
- +
-==Flashing the Asus WL500G Deluxe==+
-* Remove the power connector of the WL500G.+
-* While holding the reset button, plug the power connector back in.+
-* When the power led flashes, release the reset button. The router now is in recovery mode.+
-* Wait for your pc to get an ip address (if dhcp is configured)+
-* Use the ASUS recovery utility to upload the DD-WRT ''trx'' file.+
- +
-You can get the utilities [http://dlsvr03.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/WL-500g-03/Eng_1380.zip here], or you can browse the Asus site to download the latest version.<br>+
-<br>+
-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.<br>+
-<br>+
-After the upgrade the router reboots and you should be able to access the web interface<br>+
-<br>+
-SSD: For my new WL-500g Deluxe, the recovery utility would appear to successfully upload the firmware (v23), but then I could not get it to boot... even after waiting several minutes and power cycling. The unit would also be unresponsive to ping requests. I could always successfully reload the original Asus firmware. TFTP methods were unsuccessful altogether, as TFTP never seemed to establish contact with the router. Finally, I was able to boot DD-WRT by first flashing with OpenWRT (White Russian rc4), then using OpenWRT's firmware upload page to flash with DD-WRT.<br>+
-<br>+
-MopIC: I had very similar problem like SSD. Unfortunately, flashing in OpenWRT RC4 or any other software through Asus Restoration tool didn't help at all.<br>+
-My router is Asus WL-500G PCB R2.40.<br>+
-It acted as if it was constantly rebooting.<br>+
-The solution came from wl500.info website.<br>+
-http://wl700g.info/showthread.php?t=1606<br>+
-<br>+
-I had to do the following:<br>+
-1. Set my ip address on PC's interface to 192.168.1.10 (dhcp on asus didn't work)<br>+
-2. Unplug power cord from wl-500g.<br>+
-3. Press and hold restore button and then insert power cord back into router.<br>+
- When the PWR light starts flashing, release Restore button.<br>+
- Now your wl-500g is in restore mode.<br>+
-4. Run Asus Firmware Restoration (can be found on asus website or included cd)<br>+
-5. Choose wl500g-clear-nvram.trx file and upload it to the router. Wait 2-3 minutes after.<br>+
-6. Unplug power and again enter Restore mode (steps 2 and 3)<br>+
-7. Choose wl500g-recover.trx file and also upload it to your router. Wait 2-3 minutes<br>+
-8. Unplug power and again enter Restore mode (steps 2 and 3)<br>+
-9. Choose the firmware you wish to flash and upload. Wait 2-3 minutes. Reboot<br>+
- I used DD-WRT v23 SP2 2006-1307 for Asus<br>+
-10. Now it should be ok - enter http://192.168.1.1 and check if it is ok :-)<br>+
-Hope it helps... for me it was couple hours to fix it...<br>+
- +
- +
-LFR : Upgrade was done out of the box with .trx file & worked straight, no need for recovery mode<br>+
-MrO : Does this also work on the WL-500g Premium?+
-TTSherpa : Yes it does. No problen going back an forth the original FW & dd-wrt<br>+
-DJ : While upgrading from SP1 to SP2, web GUI didn't work with .trx file. Renaming it to .bin worked.+
- +
- +
- +
-** posted by Evan Carrol sept 28, done with with WL-500gP **+
-I just wanted to drop in my advice, I did this whole thing WITHOUT the asus proprietary utils. I used linux TFTP.+
-I had to use the aformentioned utils at http://wl700g.info/showthread.php?t=1606, +
-the only different thing I did was use TFTP. I went in the same order as the above but only gave my router+
-10 seconds between reboots.+
- +
-start.+
-1) flash - tftp wl500g-clear-nvram.trx+
-2) 10 seconds unplug,+
-3) flash - tftp wl500g-recover.trx+
-4) 10 seconds unplug,+
-5) flash- tftp dd-wrt.v23_asus.trx+
-6) 10 seconds unplug+
-done.+
- +
-==Flashing the Asus WL500G Premium==+
- +
-* Same as Deluxe.+
-* Recover from bad flash via Asus Firmware Restoration.+
-** Brick recovery can involve shorting pins. Easy enough if one's hands don't shake, but you void the warranty.+
-dd-wrtv23 SP2 ok so far ...+
- +
-==Flashing the MN-700==+
- +
-* 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.<br />+
-Full support in SVN 3949+ (you can get SVN 3953 [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=4770 here])+
- +
-==Flashing the Siemens SE505==+
- +
-BrainSlayer said: "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" +
- +
- +
-For flashing the Siemens Gigaset SE505, you have to use the dd-wrt.v23_mini_generic.bin+
-with boot tftp on 192.168.2.1+
-since the Siemens default settings do not fit to the Linksys/dd-wrt ones you have additionally+
-to check your configuration details after flashing.+
- +
-(From BrainSlayer's note in hwsupport.txt)+
- +
- +
-In [http://dd-wrt.gruftie.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/index.php?path=dd-wrt.v23%2F&download=changelog.txt changelog.txt], the last entry about the SE505 mentions, that the version2 was bricked:+
- 15.11.2005:+
- 0000161 No gzip in 14.11.2005 ?????+
- 0000167 ipkg broken in V23b 14-11-05+
- 0000168 DD-wrt v23 B2 141105 SE505 v2 bricked+
- ...+
- +
-Could someone give more info about the issue or tell us if dd-wrt has been installed succesfully on any version 2 device?+
------+* 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.
-01.mai.2006. +
-I successfully flashed a se505 v2(S30853-S1006-R107-3) with the v23_micro sp1_4.25.06 only the browser buttons on "administration|management" are not working. WDS with WEP is running well at the moment with 2 other WRT54 V23. Other things not tested yet.with v23sp1_04.28.06 buttons on basic-setup are not working - so no adjustment on ip possible. ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
------+
-02.mai.2006. +
-Even with v23sp1_2006 micro - 0501 buttons on "administration|management" are still not working. WPA as a AP seems not to work on my se505v2. With wrt54gl V23 it works for reference with my notebook yakumo quicklan USB54 XP-generic-setup. If you flash a new fw with tftp somtimes it apears as 192.168.0.your setup and sometimes as 192.168.1.1 an 192.168.2.1. So change your IP to a suitable subnet and search with ping. ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
-----+
-08.mai.2006. +
-Firmware: DD-WRT v23 SP1-RC1 (05/07/06) micro with se505 v2(S30853-S1006-R107-3) works fine now. all the problems from 1+2.mai2006 are solved so far i see in this short time. ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
-----+
-09.mai.2006.+
-update: wpa-psk and wpa2-psk ist not working with my constelation. i flashed back to the orig. siemens_de_3.02.03 fw. with this wpa-psk is running well with orig. xp setup and with yakumo setup - so seems to be a fw problem ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
-----+
-12.mai.2006.+
-after updating to "dd-wrt.v23 SP1/RC2/micro" wpa-psk and wpa2-psk works with my pc! ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
-----+
-18.mai.2006 with DD-WRT v23 SP1 Final (05/16/06) micro (generic) it works also fine. If the se505v2 dont accept the new parameter after press the save button try to switch off the siemens for a moment and restart your browser (be sure to close all your browser windows).ddt3 at gmx dot net.+
-----+
-9.june.2006 will the SE515 be supported?+
-----+
-17.july.2006 dd-wrt.v23_micro_generic_sp2.bin (11.07.2006) works also fine and stable on se505v2 now for 3 days with pppoe in use. but it never shows full speed rate. 36 Mbps is max shown despite the wds oposite station shows 54 Mbps. to see the lease time expire count down I had to swich off "DNSMasq for DHCP" .ddt3.+
-----+
-'''Related Links'''+
-* [http://wireless.subsignal.org/index.php/Konfiguration_(Siemens) Howto install Freifunk (OLSR) Firmware on the SE505]+===If something goes wrong===
-* [http://www.dslrouter-hilfe.de/home/siemens-reset.php Reset to Default Firmware]+* 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 [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/search.php forum search].
-* [http://icm-km5.erlm.siemens.de/SRVS/CGI-BIN/webisapi.dll/,/?St=10,E=0000000000011802487,K=7355,Sxi=16,Case=obj(1897) Reset to Default Firmware2(pdf)]+*The peacock thread's section on bricked routers ([http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486]) can help you to identify if you have a real problem or not.
-* [http://wiki.opennet-initiative.de/index.php/Siemens_SE505 Differences between SE505 version 1 and 2]+
-==Flashing the Motorola WR850G== 
-[[Flash Your Motorola WR850G]] 
-[[Category:English documentation]]+[[Category:Documentation| ]]
 +[[Category:Flashing networking hardware| ]]
 +[[Category:Categories| ]]

Current revision

Installing DD-WRT on a router in most cases is almost as simple as installing a program onto your computer. However, doing it incorrectly can leave you with a router that you have to throw away. 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.


Contents

[edit] Choosing the Correct Firmware - Extremely Important

[edit] Is Your Router Supported?

Please check the router database first.

If your router is not listed there, check the following wiki pages:

For a list of devices working with DD-WRT, please see Supported Devices.

For a list of devices not working with DD-WRT please see Known incompatible devices.

If your device is supported, you may find specific information in the Hardware-specific page for your router. However, to avoid Bricking your router, please finish reading this entire page first. You will then want to follow what is written for your particular device.

[edit] Which router should I buy?

For a list of recommended devices for installing DD-WRT, please see Which router should I buy?

[edit] 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 who are having problems. BROADCOM ONLY INFO MOSTLY. 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 will help you identify the correct "killer" and dd-wrt firmware versions (as applicable) for your device as needed. However, you must use the peacock thread and use the information in the Hardware-specific page to accurately identify your hardware and not create a problem that renders your router useless.

After you have read THIS page, and gotten some background on the peacock page, the Hardware-specific page may be the most useful page for you in terms of identifying your router, figuring out what files you need to download (including instructions), and figuring out the correct installation procedures.

[edit] Identifying Your DD-WRT Firmware

  • Use the brand-specific information in the Hardware-specific page 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.
  • As the peacock thread mentions, using the incorrect file is one of the worst things you can do. Fortunately, dd-wrt has simplified this immensely with their search format. Once you have identified your router accurately, you may be able to go straight to DD-WRT Downloads page and find the files you need. Again, check the Hardware-specific page for links to detailed instructions that may indicate how many files you need, etc (- clock).
  • 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.
    • For a comparison of the builds, see Version Features.
    • Updating through the Web GUI (ie, the routers'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). The maximum filesizes in Bytes are listed here under Maximum firmware size. (Again, use the download page's search function for help here - clock).
  • Read the Changelog, the timeline and all other information files on the download pages. They contain important information!

[edit] Downloading Your DD-WRT Firmware

See: Where do I download firmware

[edit] Precautions

If still running OEM firmware version on an old router (usually with 2MB flash), a "kill" firmware program file may be required first. The process of installing that firmware is probably covered in the Hardware-specific page under your device. It will be similar to simply repeating the overall installation process below, but using the specific "kill" file.

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

NOTE: See Web Interface - Username and Password for information about valid password characters.

[edit] Do Prior Research

Read the Firmware FAQ.

  1. Failing to prepare and do your background research can cause considerable frustration, wasted time, and render your router useless (bricked). In other words, you may have to literally throw it away and/or spend a lot of time recovering it. With some research, you'll save hours of time and frustration.
  2. It is recommended that you first read your specific device wiki, if available. For Broadcom devices read the [1] Peacock announcement] as a pre-ARM reference.
  3. Be careful about implementation (actually flashing) on this wiki as compared to what is recommended as a guide for your router under Hardware-specific. However, reviewing this wiki will be important for overall understanding.

[edit] General

  1. Do not skip resets before or after firmware updates unless you know what you're doing.
  2. Do NOT flash your firmware over an SSL (HTTPS) connection. Make sure you are using HTTP.

[edit] Prepare to Go Offline

  1. You will not have internet access through the router during the process of replacing the firmware. You are going to do almost everything offline with a LAN connection to your router (how to Disable your wireless). Given the many types of problems you can encounter that can prohibit you from getting help, the process of reactivating and deactivating your security settings if you actually can get back online, and the likelihood for browser crashes if you try to just keep the pages up, you will need to download everything you need before you start. This will allow you to review the information offline in the event that something goes wrong.
  2. Windows Vista users may need to Disable Compound TCP.
  3. Note or screenshot the current settings for future reference, especially if you have static IP addresses.
    1. It can be essential to record your current WAN MAC address. Some ISPs do not allow an immediate change of the routing hardware without a phone call. Check the GUI and router label for the WAN MAC.
  4. 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.
    1. 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.
  5. Recommended: PDF or save the following for offline reference e.g. File->Save As to html (NOT a bookmark)
    • The installation page for your specific router as found though the Hardware-specific page.
    • The [2] Peacock announcement.
    • This Installation wiki.
    • Recover from a Bad Flash.
    • FAQs [3]
    • Tftp Flash instruction [4] if applicable. It describes how you may have to enable Tftp, which is very quick and easy (just one check box). You may need to be prepared to use Tftp even if you do not plan to use it.
    • The Wikipedia instructions for Compound TCP, if applicable (Vista, etc), available at: [5].
  6. In addition, you will probably also need:
    • The Tftp.exe file, if applicable (execute it from the Tftp [6] link above, and just leave it open).
    • First ("killer") flash file, if applicable.
    • Second (DD-WRT) flash file. (In some cases, this may be the only file you need.)

[edit] Going Offline/Before Implementation

  1. Do NOT use a wireless connection to GUI upload firmware. Use a wired (LAN) connection.
  2. Disable any wireless adapters (see the right way to do it) on your system to ensure that none are used for the transfer.
  3. Recommended: AFTER you are offline, disable your anti-virus software, as as a false positive detection could interrupt the upload. Disable all firewalls and security (see Disable Security. Restore security measures before going back online.

[edit] Flashing Your Router with DD-WRT Firmware

Three methods of flashing are covered below: using the router's online interface (Method 1), via TFTP (Method 2), and with the Command Line Interface (Method 3 - use this if wirelessly connected). The router model and/or location may dictate what you use.

[edit] Method 1: Flashing with Web GUI

These instructions are very generic. Search the wiki, Supported Devices, and DD-WRT download page for your specific device.

  1. Reset your router
    1. This is probably not needed, but if the memory or nvram is almost full, a firmware update can brick it. Thus it is recommended at least until are familiar with the particular device.
    2. See Reset And Reboot and note the default IP address. If not listed on the router label see [wikidevi.com Wikidevi]
    3. Perform a GUI reset (Administration->Factory Defaults in DD-WRT) or use an alternate method:
      • Hard reset. WARNING: some devices should not use 30/30/30, including all ARM devices.
      • Reset button: with the router running normally, hold the reset button until the lights flash (or up to 30 sec). Be careful when using this method! Research the functionality of your current firmware to be safe.)
  2. Log in to the Web GUI
    1. Javascript is required for the Web interface. Try a different browser if having issues.
    2. Access the GUI via the router IP address. The default for DD-WRT and many devices is [192.168.1.1], or see [wikidevi.com Wikidevi]. If the IP address is unknown, see Obtaining Router IP. If still having issues, erase the nvram.
    3. You will be prompted for username and password. (If your router 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 routers).
  3. Upload the Firmware
    1. NOTE: Multiple flashes may be needed if flashing from OEM firmware. See the FAQ download file details.
    2. WARNING:DO 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!
    3. This section is written for the DD-WRT GUI. An OEM firmware interface will be different. See Precautions.
      1. Click the "Administration"->"Firmware Upgrade" tab.
      2. Optional: select the option to Reset to Defaults after flashing (NOTE: this can cause flashing issues)
      3. Click the "Browse" button and select the DD-WRT .bin file you downloaded and confirmed.
      4. Click the "Upgrade" button and wait for a redirect page confirming successful upload.
      5. Now wait at least 5 minutes before clicking "Continue". This varies with the hardware.
      6. If flashed successfully you will now be able to access the DD-WRT web interface at [192.168.1.1].
  4. Reset Again
    1. Do this only after you have confirmed that the firmware upgrade is working.
    2. This is required if flashing from OEM firmware! See the above section again.
    3. For DD-WRT upgrades, this should only be needed if making large build jumps, changing kernel version (e.g. 2.4 to 2.6 or 2.6 to 3.10), or if having issues. For the latter, reset, retest, and then search the forum before making a new post.
  5. Possible Errors with Uploading Firmware
    1. If the DD-WRT web interface is not accessible after 10 minutes, try clearing the browser cache, renewing the IP address ("ipconfig -renew" in a Windows command prompt window), another reset, or power cycle.
    2. Ping the router: a TTL=64 response indicates normal operation, while TTL=100 usually indicates a TFTP server awaiting firmware upload. TFTP usually only is available in the first couple seconds at power-up, and may time out if the file upload is larger than OEM versions. See Tftp_flash, and note only OEM firmware may work for TFTP, possible trailed builds.
    3. Search the forum, wiki, Supported Devices, and DD-WRT download page for your specific device.
    4. The firmware upload process may respond with "Upload Failed" if using the wrong file type, kernel, or size of DD-WRT (or may just brick). E.g. This may occur through the web GUI if you use a *wrt54g.bin version when you should have selected the generic version. It may also be that your router requires the mini version to be flashed before the full version. Ensure you have the right version, as described in the first section.
    5. See Recover from a Bad Flash or try a different internet browser to upload the firmware.
    6. If logging in fails with the default username/password, reset again.

[edit] Method 2: Flashing with TFTP

TFTP is generally a safe method to flash many routers. However, it is not preferred method for flashing most devices. In the Hardware-specific section you may be advised to use this method if it is the preferred or only method for your brand or type of device. 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 router appears to be (but is not) bricked.

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

[edit] Method 3: Flashing with Command Line

This is only available on routers that already have DD-WRT installed and Telnet/SSH enabled. It is the *ONLY* recommended method to upgrade the router wirelessly because the file is transferred from the DD-WRT servers to the router and the checksum is verified to ensure that the file is not corrupt. Other flashing methods transfer the file from your PC to the router (which would go over the wireless which is not as reliable) and do nothing to verify that the file is not corrupted. NOTE: Builds after 47381 do not have ftp support compiled in to busybox wget; use curl intead.

First Telnet or ssh into DD-WRT.

1a. Download the firmware to the router's /tmp directory with wget (http or ftp), curl (http or ftp), scp, or a mounted share.

cd /tmp
wget http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware}

Or:

curl http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} -o {firmware}

Note: To download from login/password protected sites (like BS' ftp for testers), use the following syntax:

wget ftp://{login}:{password}@{download location}/{firmware}

Or:

curl -u {login}:{password} ftp://{download location}/{firmware} -o {firmware}

1b. Optional: Compare the MD5 checksum [obsolete] of the original and the downloaded file.

  • For modern builds, one can also download the file to another directory (or device) and check the md5sum for both downloads:
md5sum {firmware}

2. Now write the firmware to flash (do NOT use mtd write):

write {firmware} linux &
  • The ampersand backgrounds the write command to protect against connection loss, as the shell would otherwise abort it.

Note: some routers can have more than one firmware partition: e.g. linux and linux2

  • For an example on how to check and switch boot partitions, see here.

3. Optional: Reset nvram (if having issues or for large version changes) via erase nvram or nvram erase The latter is for builds after 18 Apr 2018 (35770 and later). See Erasing NVRAM for details.

4. When completed without error, finally:

reboot

[edit] Other Notes

[edit] 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!

[edit] If you can't wget the firmware

NOTE:On routers without OpenSSL (e.g. 4MB models), the https link won't work: use HTTP or FTP.

If you don't ordinarily use DNSmasq for local DNS (perhaps because you run another DNS server), then the CLI commands may not be able to resolve addresses, so wget may fail. This can be hard to troubleshoot since the busybox commands don't return errors. Possible workarounds:

  • Enable DNSmasq just while getting the file
nvram set dns_dnsmasq=1
stopservice dnsmasq
startservice dnsmasq
nvram set dns_dnsmasq=0
  • Use nslookup on another host to get the IP address of ftp.dd-wrt.com, then download from
    ftp://<ip>/<path>
    • Note: HTTP won't work (the download1 vhost needs the "Host" header to give you the file, and the stripped-down DD-WRT wget doesn't have the --header option).
  • You can optionally use the following workaround as well:
cd /tmp
echo "nameserver {ip of your local nameserver / gateway router}" > /tmp/resolv.conf
wget http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware}

OR

curl http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} -o {firmware}

OR

curl --ipv4 http://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/{year}/{build}/{platform}/{firmware} --output {firmware}

[edit] 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.

[edit] 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 routers ([7]) can help you to identify if you have a real problem or not.