This is based on several variants that are floating around the internet, each a fork of another. Now, I have a definitive solution that will help with the questions: wrtbwmon. Which third-party firmware do you think fits your router? Let us know in the comments.Years ago, I wrote about the various tools available for monitoring bandwidth usage for individual devices in a home network. It boils down to how familiar you are with router customization or whether you are willing to spend some time learning it. However, OpenWrt and even Tomato are still worth using, especially if you want more control or a more user-friendly interface. Given its better features and broader compatibility, DD-WRT is the better choice. After knowing which ones to prioritize, check which firmware offers most, if not all, of these features. Before choosing between OpenWrt and DD-WRT, it’s best to make a list of things you want to do with your Wi-Fi router, such as improving its speed or monitoring its usage. Availability of FeaturesĪnother essential factor to consider is the features being offered by each firmware. OpenWrt, the former has a slight advantage thanks to its user-friendly platform. As such, you may want to prioritize the firmware that is easier to learn. Learning how to install and operate a Wi-Fi router firmware requires a steep learning curve, especially for casual computer users. However, if both DD-WRT and OpenWrt are compatible with the router, consider the following few factors. If only one of the firmware supports your router, then the decision is out of your hands. As such, it’s essential to check the website of each firmware and search the list of routers they support. The first factor you should consider is which firmware supports your router. It’s also one of the best firmware to use if you want to speed up your router.ĭD-WRT on WRT54G by Patrick H. Its no-nonsense and direct approach allows you to install features without dealing with complexity. Tomato is arguably the most user-friendly and streamlined router firmware in the market. If you feel that you are not yet ready to use DD-WRT or OpenWrt, worry not, as there are other firmware you can utilize.

It takes more time to get the program running.

Plenty of control and customization options.On the flip side, it allows you greater customization and is perfect for people who know a thing or two about optimizing connectivity and networks. You can also do many things like real-time network monitoring, Internet Protocol (IP) tunneling for built-in VPNs, and prioritizing Internet activities.īecause of its complicated controls, this firmware requires some technical knowledge about home networks. OpenWRT is an embedded Linux system that can also function on a Windows or macOS system.

Bandwidth monitoring tool openwrt