What is DD-WRT? A Comprehensive Guide

Users are often advised to upgrade their router’s hardware, but this only sometimes fixes the problem. What do you do then when this does not work?

Upgrading the router’s software is the most effective solution. You can do this by installing DD-WRT, which almost immediately improves the router’s functionality upon installation.

If your router especially has trouble working with a VPN, installing DD-WRT also helps.

You may want to know about DD-WRT and how it can improve your router’s functionality. This article covers every detail about DD-WRT, including its benefits, risks, and the best way to use it.

Three best VPNs for DD-WRT routers: Quick overview

Benefits of DD-WRT

Using DD-WRT opens the door to many benefits for the router user. Below are a few of the benefits that come with DD-WRT:

1. IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) functionality

IPv4 is currently used in the internet landscape to generate digital addresses for devices and route online traffic to the appropriate locations.

Your routers currently run using this IPv4. And unfortunately, this internet protocol is outdated and is already running out of available addresses for the surge of devices popping up yearly. 

IPv6 is the future, and DD-WRT is already ahead of the curve. So, with DD-WRT, your router can skip the queue and gain functionality for the next, more improved computing phase.

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2. Higher router power

Standard routers are manufactured with some safety measures; the firmware intentionally reduces the router’s power. But with DD-WRT, you can shed those constraints and use the router fully. This process is known as “overclocking.”

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3. Several options for customization

One key thing that DD-WRT brings to users is the freedom to operate. This freedom also includes customization options, and you can stretch the functionality of your router beyond the standard list of functions.

For example, you can adjust your antenna, set a time restriction for the internet, and configure a firewall and many other customarily blocked functions. DD-WRT makes it so much easier for you to fully explore the possibilities of your router’s potential for no charge at all.

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4. Improved reliability

While regular routers can be prone to glitches and connection interruptions, DD-WRT ensures your router becomes more reliable.

DD-WRT makes your router’s connection much more dependable, and with its constantly updated code, you are assured of this reliability continuing indefinitely.

Because it is built on the Linux OS, it is not prone to any outside tweaks or throttling that big corporations use to make excessive profits. This is an added layer of confidence that users have when they choose to use DD-WRT.

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5. Improved quality of service

Whatever the quality of your router before the DD-WRT, it becomes eclipsed after installation. Therefore, issues like lags, technical errors, bandwidth, and overall device performance can be significantly improved by installing DD-WRT on your router.

Your router’s QoS (quality of service) is an important metric to consider if you want to install DD-WRT, and with the increased control that it provides users, you can choose which features to increase and which to keep as is.

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6. Faster connection speeds

This function goes without saying when considering all the other benefits listed above. With all that control, customization, and optimization DD-WRT offers, your router will experience much faster internet speeds. This is especially great if you need to stream, play online games or even take work conference calls.

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7. More information on your router performance

With DD-WRT, you can actively track your router’s performance and generate charts, graphs, and statistics showing how well (or how badly) your router is performing so you can make the needed adjustments.

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8. Increases the range of your Wi-Fi

Your standard router usually has a limited range. Usually, you would need to get a range extender to help boost the router – you don’t have to. With DD-WRT, your router can become a range extender, boosting its range and improving the connection distance.

DD-WRT gives your router a better, stronger, and more optimized signal, nullifying the need for an extra “range extender.”

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9. Ability to use a variety of advanced services and programs

There are other features that DD-WRT offers users after installation which are outside of the increased functions and controls. These include,

• Demon-based services: These services refer to automated programs to run when required. Demon-based services often include Help Windows, Artificial Intelligence, and other similar applications. They are services that assist you in customizing your router to meet your specific requirements.
• Adblocking: Ads can be annoying when you’re surfing the internet. DD-WRT has a built-in program that prevents ads on web pages or videos. The program filters out and blocks ads, letting you surf and stream without interruptions. 
• DNS caching: With DD-WRT, your router can store the web address (which are translated into code of numbers called Internet Protocols/IP) of the pages you visit so that it is much easier to translate when you wish to visit any in the future– this is known as DNS caching. 
• Easier power cycling: Since naturally, you would have to turn your router off and unplug it from its power source to complete “power cycling,” it can be tedious if the router is placed in an inconvenient position in the house. With DD-WRT, you can skip the manual phase and power cycle and do it from the firmware settings instead, completing the process for you.

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10. More VPN support

VPNs are a highly beneficial software tool that offers users a safe and private internet experience. Unfortunately, not all regular routers are optimized to use VPNs. If your router is not optimized for a VPN, we recommend flashing it with DD-WRT. Flashing prevents any network lags from using the router and a VPN.

DD-WRT can also help secure every device connected to the router with a “VPN passthrough” function. With this function, any device connected to the flashed router is protected by the VPN, adding a bonus feature the VPN itself may not have had originally.

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DD-WRT risks to note

With so many benefits of DD-WRT, you should also know about the potential risks involved. As it has so much power to improve your router, so does it have the potential to cause great harm. 

Once you choose to install DD-WRT, you effectively void the device warranty. As a result, the manufacturer is within their rights to refuse you any technical support or repair.

In addition, while DD-WRT is hailed for its ability to “overclock,” you should be wary of this function. Extended periods of overclocking can cause permanent damage to your router.

Before installing DD-WRT, weigh the pros and cons and ensure the former outweighs the latter.

You can retain the device warranty if you have installed DD-WRT but want to undo the flashing. This is known as the 30/30/30 method, which involves three steps:

• Resetting
• Unplugging and reconnecting, and
• Going back to the router’s default settings.

However, you should know that this method is only sometimes sure to work, primarily if any permanent damage has been incurred, perhaps due to overclocking. Furthermore, not all routers support the flashing process, and you might risk permanently ruining the router all together. 

To avoid ruining your router, research to see if your router is compatible with the firmware. You can check the DD-WRT database for this information. We have outlined some of the compatible routers in the next section of this article.

If you decide to install DD-WRT, here’s a list of things to note:

• Make sure your router is compatible.
• Choose the best file for your router type.
• Make sure your device settings are in default.
• Keep the router undisturbed and connected to power the whole time.

If you omit these steps, your router can be damaged or permanently bricked. We do not want that, so we have outlined how to install the DD-WRT and keep your router functioning safely.

How to choose a DD-WRT router

As highlighted in the risks to consider before installing DD-WRT, not all routers are compatible with the firmware, especially if you wish to use the VPN passthrough function. With this in mind, the best option would be to get a new router compatible with DD-WRT firmware to avoid complications. 

While not many routers are compatible with DD-WRT, many reliable ones work smoothly with the firmware and can even execute the VPN passthrough. The following are things to consider when choosing a DD-WRT router:

• Your budget for your router: DD-WRT is guaranteed to improve your router’s speed and performance, so there is no apparent need to buy the most expensive options. However, it’s not a bad idea, regardless. 
• Payment for extra tech support: Bearing in mind that installing DD-WRT voids your device warranty, you need to be extra sure you will not need any tech support after installation. However, if you use a premium VPN along with your flashed router, there’s often tech support from the VPN company you can rely on.
• The procedure for installing DD-WRT on that particular router: You have to follow a strict order of installation specific to your router to avoid any complications you might face during or after installation. We recommend acquainting yourself with the installation guide for the compatible devices or the exact device you wish to purchase. Once you narrow it down, you can pick the easiest or the best option. 
• Which VPNs do they work with: This step is for those particular about the VPN they wish to use or the one they already have an existing subscription with. In addition, since different DD-WRT routers work for different VPNs, you must figure out which works best for which before making a purchase. 

Once you can reconcile these concerns, you will be prepared to choose the best router. 

Top five routers for DD-WRT

1. Linksys WRT1900ACS

The Linksys WRT1900ACS router also works with the DD-WRT firmware and is an excellent fit for any home. You can use it to create separate networks, block websites and select which devices to give more internet speed. And all these functions are before you even install DD-WRT.

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2. Netgear Nighthawk R6700(AC1750)

The R6700 is the perfect router choice if you have a large home, thanks to its strong signal and wide range of connectivity. In addition, it is lightning fast, works well with DD-WRT firmware, and supports Smart TVs and many other smart home devices, making it an excellent choice for gaming, streaming, and regular internet surfing.

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3. Asus RT-AC88U (AC3100)

While the Asus RT-AC88U is the most expensive choice, it is worth the extra cost. It has impressive high-end features and boasts high connection speeds – peaking at over 3000Mbps, great for streaming and gaming. It also has 8 gigabit LAN ports, which can serve even the most tasking of usage.

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4. D-Link DIR-890L(AC3200)

If you want an overperformer, you should go for the D-Link DIR-890L. It is the equivalent of having multiple routers working in one house. The router is noted to have a 2.4GHz wireless band that offers users speeds of at least 600Mbps and then two separate 5Hz wireless bands with a combined speed of over 1300Mbps.

The best part is that it can choose between the three with the best connection and automatically switches to that one for an uninterrupted connection experience. In addition, it comes equipped with six antennas, making it the only one on the list with assured highest speeds regardless of where you are in the house.

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5. TP-Link Archer C9 (AC1900)

Next on our list is the more budget-friendly option, which surprisingly has excellent speed and range performance scores. The TP-Link Archer C9 is excellent for large homes, is compatible with IPv6 protocol, and allows users to set up guest networks and alter access to potentially harmful websites. Again, these features are available straight out of the box before installing DD-WRT and can only multiply post-installation.

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How to set up a DD-WRT router

There are many ways you can set up a DD-WRT router, and each of them is dependent on a few factors:

• The router you choose,
• The DD-WRT file you use,
• Your internet connection and,
• Your preferred choices.

The first and most crucial step is ensuring your router has DD-WRT software installed; some routers come pre-installed with the firmware. But if the one you’ve got does not have the firmware installed, here’s what you can do:

• Make sure your router fully supports the DD-WRT firmware.
• Locate your router’s online administrative settings.
• Using these, download the DD-WRT firmware onto the router.
• Let the installation reach completion, ensuring nothing interrupts it at any point during the process. 
• Connect your router to your network again.
• If prompted, log in to the DD-WRT.
• Define your desired DD-WRT settings, or make use of the default settings.

A dual router configuration offers users a much more straightforward process. However, this will require getting a second router (pre-installed with DD-WRT, ideally) and connecting it to the former router via an ethernet cable.

This method would skip the reconfiguration phase for the new router, making it easier to switch between the standard internet and the DD-WRT firmware.

Why do you need a VPN for the DD-WRT router?

A VPN is necessary for your DD-WRT for many reasons, mainly because your router is the channel with which your devices communicate with the internet. Therefore, if the router is compromised, so are your devices, regardless of the number connected.

A VPN can keep your router and, by extension, your devices safe with robust encryption protocols. So if safe and private internet surfing is something you want, you need a VPN for your DD-WRT router.

Additionally, online streaming has become a popular method of accessing movies, TV shows, and live events in today’s digital age. Numerous free streaming sites provide a vast array of content. However, they may come with certain drawbacks, such as geo-restrictions or network limitations. Combining custom router firmware like DD-WRT with a VPN can help you overcome these challenges and enhance your streaming experience.

Three best VPNs for DD-WRT routers in 2024 – Detailed list

VPN Service	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	Surshark
DD-WRT Routers Ranking	1	2	3
Streaming Services	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu	Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer	Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC iPlayer
Average Speed (Mbps)	100Mbps	100Mbps	100Mbps
Popular Unblocked Sites	88%	95%	86%
Total number of servers	5400	3000	3200
Simultaneous Connections	10	8	Unlimited
The Best Deal (per month)	$3.99	$8.32	$2.30

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a popular VPN primarily because of its security and privacy features. Unfortunately, the VPN service has no app optimized for routers, but it works great with popular DD-WRT routers like Linksys. If you have trouble with your router’s configuration, you don’t have to worry; NordVPN has pre-flashed routers, so you do not have to waste more time.

When it comes to performance, NordVPN is a comfortable top contender. The VPN boasts over 5,000 servers in over 60 countries and, with this might, can unblock virtually any popular streaming platforms from anywhere you are in the world.

For safety, NordVPN offers users the Double VPN feature, which protects and routes your primary traffic through a second server. It also has an obfuscation feature that blocks your traffic and makes it appear as regular internet traffic. In addition, NordVPN has excellent customer service and is relatively affordable at $3.99/month.

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is our top pick for DD-WRT routers, and it is super-friendly and relatively simple to set up. The VPN also has custom firmware, making it easy to install on DD-WRT routers. In addition, with the “FlashRouter” feature, ExpressVPN offers users a preconfigured DD-WRT router for $224.99.

ExpressVPN is easy for experts and novices to install. The app has a detailed installation guide that walks you through the installation process. Thanks to its extensive server network of over 3,000 servers in about 90 countries, you have an unlimited unblocking capability when you use the VPN — whether it’s a streaming platform or a gaming lobby. The servers are also very fast, ensuring your connection is stable the whole time.

Your internet experience with ExpressVPN is air-tight thanks to its high-grade 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, zero logs policy, and Network Lock. You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for $8.32/month and get a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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3. Surfshark

Surfshark is a budget-friendly option. It is an impressive VPN option for DD-WRT users and works with popular routers like ASUS and Netgear. Surfshark offers users unlimited multiple connections to allow them to protect many devices at once. If manual configuration is too much of a chore for you, you can always opt for the pre-flashed routers made available by Surfshark.

This VPN also has an impressive number of servers, with over 3,000 in 100 countries, making its unblocking ability among the best in the industry. You can watch Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max from any location.

Surfshark also boasts formidable security with its high-grade ad blocker, 256-bit AES encryption, and DNS and IP leak protection. In addition, it has some proprietary features such as WhiteLister, Multi-Hop, and NoBorders. Finally, Surfshark comes at only $2.05/month for users who need an affordable VPN option and has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Testing methodology: How to choose the best VPN for the DD-WRT router

After thorough research and testing, we narrowed down the key factors we looked out for (and the ones you should look out for) when we picked the best VPNs for a DD-WRT router. They are listed below:

• Easy configuration: Ensure the VPN offers preconfigured or flashed routers and has a simple and detailed setup guide.
• Speed: Speed is essential, and you must watch for VPNs that can maintain internet speed even with multiple connections.
• Features: Make sure that your choice of VPN supports OpenVPN protocol and offers additional security features like a kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection, etc.
• Unblocking ability: Ensure your choice of VPN has a large server network, which means it has a more comprehensive unblocking range.
• 24/7 customer support: If you encounter difficulties, you need a VPN with responsive and expert customer support that works round the clock.
• Money-back guarantee: Any new purchase comes with added risk, so you need a VPN that offers you a trial period and a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind.

OpenWRT vs. DD-WRT: Which one is better?

OpenWRT and DD-WRT are similar in that they are both open-source programs, but they have one distinct difference – DD-WRT is compatible with more devices and has a much larger community of users for support and advice.

Another difference between the two is that installing and configuring OpenWRT requires more technical knowledge, and thus, it is pretty tricky for novice users. DD-WRT, however, is easy to understand and install.

DD-WRT has flaws; software glitches are bound to exist with such an extensive device compatibility range. But these are mainly isolated to specific devices.

Finally, either firmware can work depending on your need and know-how. But we recommend DD-WRT because of its more straightforward configuration and installation process. 

Ways to configure a VPN on a dedicated DD-WRT router

Once you get a router compatible with DD-WRT firmware, the next phase will be the VPN installation. The installation process can vary depending on the type you get, but there is a general guide regardless of the router type.

Below are the steps to follow to set up a VPN on a DD-WRT router manually:

1. Select a premium VPN that supports passthrough on a DD-WRT server. Our top choice is ExpressVPN.
2. Log in to your account with your VPN service in a browser window or in-app.
3. Select a manual setup through OpenVPN; this is a robust VPN security protocol. It also supports DD-WRT, as both programs are open-source.
4. Select a server based on your desired location and preferences. 
5. Download the associated file for the server.
6. Open your router’s admin settings and ensure you’re connected through DD-WRT instead of your standard firmware.
7. Sign in to your router if required.
8. Enable the OpenVPN client.
9. Enter programming data into the various fields your router’s admin settings present using the file you downloaded from your VPN provider. 
10. Log in to your VPN account via the DD-WRT admin settings.
11. Input any more required code to set up your router further.
12. Save your progress and then apply the new settings.
13. Check your router’s status in your admin panel to see if you’re connected to a VPN.

Once complete, you can double-check to see if your IP address has been modified using an IP address checker.

FAQs