dd-wrt router firmware

[JonnyB]

Hi. I came across an article discussing ways of upgrading your router to boost your wireless, add a VPN at home, and overclock your router, as well as various other advantages.
The article goes on about installing www.dd-wrt.com fireware onto your router. Has any one else used this fireware upgrade? Is it safe?
I replaced my router with a decent NetGear router, but I am still not getting a wireless speed that I am happy with. Granted I will always want it to go faster, but right now it is a pain even to try watch any youtube videos longer than 50 seconds.
Please let me know if you have used this firmware or know of any one that has used it? Also if it is any good.

[Rabbid dawg]

It really depends on the router and the firmware build.
I have used it on my asus router and loaded it via the routers recovery mode. Just try and load a stable build and not one of the beta builds and do a search on the net for your router and dd-wrt. You may also have a look at tomato based firmware.

[Joker]

dd-wrt just gives your router functionality it otherwise wouldn't have come loaded with by default. It won't increase your speed or wireless signal strength.

[JonnyB]

dd-wrt just gives your router functionality it otherwise wouldn't have come loaded with by default. It won't increase your speed or wireless signal strength.

Oh? In this article: http://www.howtogeek.com/56612/turn-...r-with-dd-wrt/ it says "DD-WRT will let you boost your router’s range, add features, and more."

Either way I am looking to improve my internet speed at home. I am just concerned that this firmware will cause "bricking" (As it warns in the article)

[JonnyB]

Thanks Rabbid dawg. I will look into Tomatoe based firmware against DD-WRT and see which is looking best for my router.

[Kooku]

DD-WRT has been around for many years, install a stable version and you will have a host of features that you do not currently have. Not all manufacturers equipment is compatible with it and you will need to check on the web site. If your router is compatible with DD-WRT it will also more than likely be compatible with Tomato (not spelt Tomatoe )

Both firmwares enable you to boost your routers power output to a maximum of 251mw. Currently should be around 20mw. You will however be breaking a number of ICASA laws regarding the strength of the signal you can emit and would be liable for a fine if you are caught.

Enjoy, is a whole load of fun and will open up a whole host of possibilities.

[JonnyB]

Thank you Kooku. Sounds like I should be able to sort out my current problems with either of these firmware upgrades.
Do you know what the legal limit is on signal strength? If this is going to boost up from 20mw I doubt that I will need to go as high as 251mw...