This article will delve into the three major mainstream open-source router firmware—OpenWRT、LEDE and ImmortalWRT—detailing their origins, features, applicable scenarios, and providing download links to help you choose the most suitable firmware.
1. OpenWRT
1.1 Background Introduction
OpenWRT (Open Wireless Router) was born in 2004 and is a Linux-based embedded operating system originally developed for the Linksys WRT54G router. OpenWRT breaks the closed nature of traditional router firmware, providing a fully customizable and extensible platform that allows users to install and configure packages as needed.
1.2 Main Features
- High Customizability: It has a flexible build system, allowing users to select the packages to include based on their needs for personalized customization.
- Rich Package Repository: Supports over 3500 packages, including firewalls, VPNs, proxy servers, etc., to meet various network needs.
- Wide Hardware Support: Compatible with various routers and embedded devices, from low-end to high-end, suitable versions can be found.
- Strong Community Support: It has an active global developer and user community that provides continuous updates and technical support.
- Stable Performance and Security: Regularly releases stable and development versions, promptly fixing security vulnerabilities to ensure system security.
1.3 Applicable Scenarios
- Advanced users or network administrators who need a highly customized network environment.
- Users who wish to extend router functionality by adding plugins, such as setting up a web server, FTP server, etc.
- Businesses or home networks that require long-term stable operation.
2. LEDE
2.1 Background Introduction
LEDE (Linux Embedded Development Environment) was forked in 2016 by some OpenWRT developers to address issues in the management and development process of the OpenWRT project at that time, such as delayed updates and declining code quality. LEDE emphasizes a transparent development process and high-quality code. In 2018, LEDE merged back with the OpenWRT project, but the philosophy and improvements of LEDE were retained and integrated into OpenWRT.
2.2 Main Features
- Improved Development Process: Adopts a more transparent and open development model, encouraging community participation.
- Faster Update Cycle: Compared to previous OpenWRT, LEDE releases updates and patches more frequently, promptly fixing vulnerabilities and introducing new features.
- Optimized Code Quality: Focuses on code review and testing to ensure the stability and reliability of the firmware.
- Enhanced Hardware Support: Added support for more new devices to meet diverse user needs.
2.3 Applicable Scenarios
- Users seeking the latest features and quick updates.
- Users who want higher code quality and stability based on OpenWRT.
- Users with a strong recognition of community collaboration and open-source philosophy.
3. ImmortalWRT
3.1 Background Introduction
ImmortalWRT is a fork created by domestic developers based on OpenWRT and LEDE, focusing on meeting the specific needs of domestic users. Due to the unique nature of the domestic network environment, ImmortalWRT integrates many targeted optimizations and features, such as ad-blocking and scientific internet access.
3.2 Main Features
- Localized Optimization: Optimized for the domestic network environment and user habits, such as comprehensive support for Chinese and optimization of domestic network protocols.
- Rich Built-in Plugins: Pre-installed with practical plugins like ad-blocking, VPN, SSR, etc., ready to use out of the box, saving users the hassle of installation.
- Active Domestic Community: Has a dedicated Chinese community and forum, providing technical support and tutorials, more closely aligned with domestic user needs.
- Continuous Updates and Maintenance: Developers actively maintain it, promptly responding to user feedback and continuously improving firmware functionality.
3.3 Applicable Scenarios
- Domestic users, especially those needing to address specific issues in the domestic network environment.
- Users who want rich built-in plugins to save configuration time.
- Users needing Chinese technical support and documentation.
4. Comparison of the Three
4.1 Feature Comparison
| Feature | OpenWRT | LEDE | ImmortalWRT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Original Project | Fork of OpenWRT | Domestic Branch of OpenWRT/LEDE |
| Customizability | High | High | High |
| Update Frequency | Stable | Faster | Active |
| Community Support | Global Community | Emphasizes Community Collaboration | Domestic Community |
| Plugin Support | Rich Package | Similar to OpenWRT | Rich Built-in Plugins |
| Localization | Multi-language Support | Multi-language Support | Focus on Chinese Support |
| Optimization | General Optimization | Improved Code Quality | Optimized for Domestic Environment |
| Target Audience | Global Users | Users Seeking New Features | Domestic Users |
4.2 Selection Recommendations
- OpenWRT: If you need a long-validated stable system and require resources from the global community, OpenWRT is the first choice.
- LEDE: If you want to experience faster updates and higher code quality, LEDE can meet your needs.
- ImmortalWRT: If you are a domestic user looking for rich out-of-the-box features and optimizations for the domestic network environment, ImmortalWRT is the best choice.
5. Installation and Usage Guide
5.1 Preparation Before Installation
- Backup Data: Before flashing new firmware, be sure to back up the current router configuration and important data.
- Confirm Compatibility: Check if your router model supports the selected firmware, which can be found on the official website or download page.
- Download Firmware: Obtain the corresponding firmware file from the provided download links above.
5.2 Installation Steps
- Access Router Management Interface: Usually by entering
<span>192.168.1.1</span>in the browser. - Upload Firmware: Find the firmware upgrade or system update option and select the downloaded firmware file.
- Start Upgrade: After confirming everything is correct, start the upgrade process, and do not power off or disconnect during this time.
- Wait for Reboot: After the upgrade is complete, the router will automatically reboot, which may take a few minutes.
- Reconfigure: After the upgrade, you may need to reconfigure the router settings or restore the backed-up configuration.
5.3 Precautions
- Risk Warning: Flashing carries risks and may cause the router to become bricked; please ensure you understand the associated risks before proceeding.
- Official Documentation: It is recommended to read the official installation guide and documentation for the selected firmware for more detailed information.
- Community Support: If you encounter issues, you can seek help in relevant communities or forums.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
6.1 What to do if I cannot access the router management interface after flashing new firmware?
This may be due to a change in the IP address; try using the default address <span>192.168.1.1</span> or check the firmware documentation for the default address.
6.2 How to restore to the original firmware?
You can usually restore the original firmware through the router’s recovery mode or using specific tools; the exact method varies by device, please refer to the device manual.
6.3 Which firmware is more suitable for novice users?
For novices, ImmortalWRT offers more out-of-the-box features and Chinese support, which may be more user-friendly.
7. Conclusion
The choice of router firmware has a significant impact on network performance and functionality. OpenWRT, LEDE, and ImmortalWRT each have their own characteristics to meet different user needs. Through this article, we hope you have gained a deeper understanding of these three firmwares and can choose the most suitable one based on your needs to enhance your network experience.
Thank you for reading! If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the content of this article, feel free to leave a comment below for discussion.