Introduction and Foundation

What is OpenWRT?

OpenWRT Project is a Linux operating system targeting embedded devices. For developers, OpenWRT is the framework to build an application without having to build a complete firmware around it; for users this means the ability for full customization, to use the device in ways never envisioned.

Early Beginnings

OpenWRT was first released in 2004, building on the open-source firmware of the Linksys WRT54G router, with contributions from a community of developers leveraging GPL-licensed code.

Evolution and Growth

OpenWRT has undergone significant development over the years, with notable releases including:

• 2006: OpenWRT “White Russian” (0.9) was released, introducing the opkg package manager.
• 2010: OpenWRT 10.03 “Backfire” was released, featuring a new kernel (2.6.32) and improved device support.
• 2014: OpenWRT 14.07 “Barrier Breaker” was released, with a new kernel (3.10) and enhanced network stack.
• 2020: OpenWRT 19.07 was released, introducing flow offloading and improved hardware support.
• 2023: OpenWRT 23.05 was released, featuring a modernized build system and support for newer Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 6).

Key Features

• Customizable firmware: OpenWRT offers customizable firmware for embedded devices, primarily routers.
• Open-source and community-driven development: OpenWRT is developed by a community of developers using open-source code under the GPL license.
• Device support: OpenWRT supports a wide range of devices, including:
  • Routers
  • Switches
  • Single-board computers
• Package management: The opkg package manager allows for easy installation and management of software.
• Regular updates: OpenWRT receives regular updates with new features, security patches, and support for modern hardware (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, WPA3).