Why to Change the Firmware of the Router

The router is a key piece to connect to the Internet. It is the equipment that allows us to connect devices of all kinds to the network, both wirelessly and via cable. Normally we have the possibility of keeping it as it comes from the factory, whether we have bought it on our own or it has been provided to us by the Internet operator, as well as being able to modify it. In this sense, many times we can modify the firmware of the router to have some advantages and more possibilities. Now why should we do this?

What does changing the firmware of the router contribute

We can say that the firmware of the router is the software that the device needs in order to function correctly. It is a system that has been installed to manage requests, allow the creation and change of passwords, configure security aspects, even improve some parameters for wireless coverage … In short, it is a fundamental part of the router for its operation.

Change the Firmware of the Router

Each router has a firmware installed. In addition, it must be borne in mind that it is common for them to release new versions to correct errors and prevent them from being exploited by hackers to carry out attacks. Hence the importance of updating the router.

However, beyond the firmware that comes standard we can also use other independent versions. We can say that it is something like the operating system that we are going to install on our computer. We can buy a computer with Windows 10, but change the operating system for a Linux distribution.

More functionality

A first reason why it may be interesting to change the firmware of the router, as long as our device is compatible, is to achieve greater functionality . In many cases, the firmware that is installed in the device brings limited features and functions.

It can also offer a more visual, more accessible system to carry out changes that we need to make. In this way we also gain simplicity.

Have VPN built into the router

VPN tools are widely used today on mobile devices and computers, but you have to know that there is also the option of having it integrated directly into the router. Now, not all are compatible. Therefore this may be one more reason to change the firmware.

If we use an alternative firmware such as DD-WRT, we can configure a VPN directly on this device. In this way, all the computers that we connect to the router will connect to that VPN.

Problemas que son inevitables en una VPN

Easy to change DNS

DNS , as we know, is essential for browsing the Internet. We can use those offered by the telephone operator as standard, but also change them and use others with which we can achieve better performance or even more security.

By changing firmware we can have more possibilities in this regard, since it is normal that alternative versions offer this possibility and we can automatically change DNS and adapt them.

Customizable

Without a doubt another important factor is that it has greater customization . It is ideal for those who want to adapt the router to their daily use and not depend on what comes standard with the system integrated into the device.

Improve performance

We could even get better performance , depending on the router and previous firmware we had. This is so since it offers very varied features to optimize the Wi-Fi connection, correct bugs and adapt the device to the use that we are going to give it.

QoS is also available in the alternative firmwares for routers. In this way we can establish priorities of the data packets.