Router Flashing

Here are some of the questions to address concerning router flashing:

Which method to use to flash the router? Options: 1) WebGUI (easiest and recommended) 2) tftp 3) using command-line

Which build type to use?

• micro (routers with 2MB Flash)
• mini (can be used for routers with 4MB Flash)
• standard (can be used for routers with 4MB Flash)
• mega (only for routers with 8MB Flash)

Note: Make sure to check the size of the file before flashing. Flashing a file that is bigger can brick the router.

Which driver to use? Options:

• NEWD
• NEWD-2
• Vint
• K26

Note: NEWD is the NEW Driver based on the kernel 2.4. Many routers use this. Vint is the old Vintage driver for really early Linksys router from about 10 years ago, also based on kernel 2.4. Newd-2 is a newer driver that is available both in a kernel 2.4 and a kernel 2.6. It offers no real benefit in the kernel 2.4. It will brick many routers. K26 is the new kernel that some very new routers MUST use and it has the newd-2 driver. Using K26 on a router that doesn't support it, or failing to use K26 on a router that requires it will both brick the router. Most routers should use NEWD when they can. VINT is for old routers that cannot support the new wireless drivers. Some new routers can ONLY use Newd2 builds

Parts of flash:

Your flash is composed of three parts. The CFE file, which is the program that
boots the router and is specific to your router, the NVram which is the memory
for settings (simplistic explanation, I know) and the kernel which is the
firmware. You can erase the nvram. You can reflash the kernel. But if you don't
have a CFE file FOR your specific model of router, you are pooched.

General steps for flashing a router with DD-WRT: 1) Perform a 30-30-30 hard reset before and after the flash To do a 30-30-30 reset you must push the reset button with your router powered on. Hold it for 30 seconds with the router powered on. STILL holding it, pull the power cord for 30 seconds. Still holding it, plug the router back in and continue to hold the reset button for 30 more seconds. You will have held the button for a full 90 seconds without releasing it. This process clears the information in the NVRAM 2) Use a wired connection for this process. 3) Go to the WebGUI. 4) Expect to be asked to reset password in the WebGUI if reset was done properly. 5) Go to the administration tab to upgrade firmware. 6) The power light will flash during the process. 7) A new webpage will confirm a successful upload. 8) Do another 30-30-30 hard reset.