[RESOLVED for now] Devices blocking OpenWrt?

My TP-Link Archer C7 v2 has gone belly up. Which manufacturer has a recent (last 2 years) model that is working with OpenWRT? I read that some newer wifi-routers are deliberately blocking opensource software.

https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B085S1MXRV running fine here, OpenWRT supported.

HTH

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D-Link DIR-878 Rev.A, DIR-882 Rev.A, DIR-2640 Rev.A ...

Plenty listed in the OpenWrt: ToH

Router selection and value will obviously vary depending on user's location.

Please see https://openwrt.org/faq/which_router_should_i_buy before asking for recommendations. This way you will get better recommendations and come to a quicker solution.

mpa:

As some makers now require an email and lock out OpenWRT, I think a discussion hardware that isn't becoming proprietary necessary. I had already looked at the TOH before my post (I'm the OP). What you don't see in that table is where the market is going.

Belkin RT3200, $90.

Yes, that is an unfortunate trend, but I would like to offer a slightly different perspective.

The process of installing OpenWrt can vary in difficulty, such as:

  • using the vendor firmware's web interface
  • recovery mode with TFTP, serial console not needed
  • recovery mode / boot loader, requiring a serial console
  • JTAG
  • programming the flash chip with an external programmer, in-circuit or after desoldering

Sometimes, it includes risky operations such as rewriting the boot loader, or requires tools and skills for soldering work.

A vendor requiring email registration for unlocking the boot loader is another such obstacle, which you might find unacceptable, for principle or practical reasons.

However, once OpenWrt is installed, the device has been "liberated" and the hurdles set up by the vendor become irrelevant.

I suggest you should mention which steps you are willing/able to take for OpenWrt installation, using the above list as a guide. You should also state the requirements you have (the link I posted previously), then we can start recommending suitable devices.

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For now and I hope for a long while to come, the device maker Cudy is using OpenWRT as the stock (factory installed) firmware on their wireless routers.
That is the route I'm going to take. If a problem arises, this forum is the best place for questions and comments. Period.

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Almost all manufacturers use openwrt as stock fw, Cudy isn't unique in any way.

Really? I just found https://openwrt.org/docs/guide-user/installation/openwrt-as-stock-firmware

well, they use it as the foundation, then add their own modifications/code/configuration.

while the ones in your link run 100% (?) clean openwrt.

note there's a difference between stock fw, and stock openwrt.

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