# DD-WRT

> Linux-based firmware for wireless routers and wireless access points

**Wikidata**: [Q1152232](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1152232)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DD-WRT)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dd-wrt

## Summary
DD-WRT is a Linux-based firmware designed for wireless routers and access points. It provides enhanced networking features and customization options over standard router firmware. As an open-source project, it allows users to extend the functionality of compatible hardware.

## Key Facts
- First released on January 22, 2005.
- Licensed under the GNU General Public License.
- Runs on a wide range of consumer-grade wireless routers.
- Classified as a Linux distribution, embedded OS, network OS, and open-source software.
- Current stable version is 24 SP1, released July 26, 2008; latest beta is 3.0-r47033 from July 8, 2021.
- Maintains active community support via forums, IRC, and Reddit.
- Source code hosted at https://svn.dd-wrt.com using Apache Subversion.

## FAQs
### Q: What is DD-WRT used for?
A: DD-WRT is used to replace the default firmware on supported wireless routers and access points. It unlocks advanced networking features such as Quality of Service (QoS), VLAN support, wireless bridging, and more.

### Q: Is DD-WRT free to use?
A: Yes, DD-WRT is free and open-source software distributed under the GNU General Public License. Users can download, install, and modify it freely.

### Q: Can I install DD-WRT on my router?
A: Only if your router model is officially supported by DD-WRT. A list of supported devices is available on their website. Installing incompatible firmware may permanently damage the device.

## Why It Matters
DD-WRT revolutionized home and small-office networking by bringing enterprise-level features to affordable consumer hardware. By replacing restrictive vendor firmware with a customizable alternative, it empowers users to optimize performance, enhance security, and experiment with configurations typically unavailable in stock firmware. Its longevity—spanning nearly two decades—and strong developer community make it a cornerstone of DIY networking culture. For many, it represents both an accessible entry point into embedded systems and a practical tool for extending router capabilities beyond manufacturer limitations.

## Notable For
- Being one of the earliest and most widely adopted third-party router firmwares.
- Supporting hundreds of different router models across multiple chipsets.
- Offering extensive configuration options including VPN servers, traffic shaping, and custom scripts.
- Hosting one of the largest communities for router modification and networking enthusiasts.

## Body
### Overview
DD-WRT is a third-party firmware replacement for wireless routers and access points. Built on top of the Linux kernel, it enhances standard router capabilities through additional services and tools commonly found in professional networking equipment.

### Development History
The initial release of DD-WRT was published on January 22, 2005. Since then, several major versions have been released:
- Version 16 – Released January 22, 2005
- Version 22 – Released July 25, 2005
- Version 23 – Released December 25, 2005
- Version 23 SP1 – Released May 16, 2006
- Version 23 SP2 – Released September 14, 2006
- Version 24 – Released May 18, 2008
- Version 24 SP1 – Released July 26, 2008 (current stable)
- Beta 3.0-r47033 – Released July 8, 2021

### Technical Classification
DD-WRT is categorized as:
- **Linux Distribution** – Based on the Linux kernel with GNU components
- **Embedded Operating System** – Designed for resource-constrained hardware environments
- **Network Operating System** – Provides control over LAN/WAN operations
- **Open-Source Software** – Freely redistributable under GPL v2+

### Community & Support
Active engagement occurs through various platforms:
- Official Website: https://dd-wrt.com
- Wiki Documentation: https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Main_Page
- Forums: https://forum.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/
- IRC Channel: irc://irc.freenode.net/#dd-wrt
- Reddit: r/DDWRT (since January 26, 2012)
- Stack Exchange Tags: unix.stackexchange.com/tags/dd-wrt, stackoverflow.com/tags/dd-wrt

### Licensing and Legal Status
DD-WRT is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL). While the software itself is open-source, derivative works must comply with GPL terms. The project maintains registered identifiers across numerous databases including Open Hub, Quora Topics, Zhihu Topics, Crunchbase, and others.

### File Formats and Compatibility
Configuration files created by DD-WRT are stored in proprietary but readable formats:
- Readable Format: `.cfg` (saved configuration file)
- Writable Format: `.cfg` (customizable backup/restore format)

### Donation and Sustainability
Support for continued development is encouraged through donations at https://dd-wrt.com/donations/. These contributions help fund infrastructure and ongoing maintenance efforts.

## References

1. [Source](https://dd-wrt.com/support/other-downloads/?path=betas%2F2021%2F)
2. [Source](https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Changelog)
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. Quora