Skip to main content
Install DD-WRT

Install DD-WRT

· 4 min read

How can you install DD-WRT firmware on your router? DD-WRT is a Linux-based firmware for wireless routers and access points. It is a replacement for the factory firmware of a wide range of wireless routers and non-network devices. DD-WRT is a feature-rich firmware that provides a lot of additional functionality for your router. It is a great way to supercharge your router and get the most out of it.

TP-Link TL-WR841N/ND v9 → DD-WRT: Step-by-step upgrade​

Here’s a clear, action-ready walkthrough based on Richard Lloyd’s tutorial video on upgrading the TP-Link TL-WR841N/ND v9 to DD-WRT. You can watch the original for context and visuals: Richard Lloyd’s tutorial video.

What you need​

  • Router: TP-Link TL-WR841N/ND hardware version v9 (check the label on the underside).
  • Computer: Laptop/desktop with an Ethernet port.
  • Ethernet: One cable to connect PC → router LAN port.
  • Firmware files: The correct DD-WRT build for WR841N/ND v9. For the first flash, you’ll typically use the “factory-to-ddwrt” file; later updates use the “webflash” file within DD-WRT.

Safety checklist​

  • Stable power: Avoid power loss during flashing (don’t move cables, don’t reboot unless instructed).
  • Wired only: Use a wired Ethernet connection; do not flash over Wi‑Fi.
  • Backups: Export your current TP-Link settings if you may roll back later.
  • Antivirus/VPN: Temporarily disable anything that might intercept local web traffic.
  • Patience: After you start the upgrade, wait several minutes—do not refresh or interrupt.

Upgrade steps​

  1. Confirm hardware version
    Flip the router over and verify it says “v9.” Using files for the wrong version can brick the device.

  2. Factory reset the router (recommended)
    From the TP-Link UI: System Tools → Factory Defaults → Restore, or hold the reset button for ~10 seconds until LEDs react.

  3. Connect and log in to the router
    Connect PC → router via Ethernet. Open the router’s admin page (often 192.168.0.1) and sign in with your current credentials.

  4. Upload the DD-WRT factory image
    In TP-Link UI: System Tools → Firmware Upgrade → choose the “factory-to-ddwrt” .bin for WR841N/ND v9 → start the upgrade. Do not touch anything while it flashes and reboots.

  5. Wait for reboot and reconnect
    After several minutes, the router will reboot into DD-WRT. Your router’s IP may change (commonly to 192.168.1.1). If you can’t reach it, renew your PC’s IP or briefly disconnect/reconnect the Ethernet cable.

  6. Complete DD-WRT initial setup
    On first login, DD-WRT prompts you to set a new admin username/password. Create strong credentials, then sign in.

  7. Verify the install
    DD-WRT UI → Status → Router: confirm model and DD-WRT build information appear correctly.

  8. Final installation
    After the initial setup, you can proceed with the final installation. This typically involves uploading the “webflash” .bin file for WR841N/ND v9 through the DD-WRT interface. Go to Administration → Firmware Upgrade. Choose the “webflash” .bin file and start the upgrade. Wait for the router to reboot.

    After the reboot, log back into the router’s web interface. Verify that the DD-WRT firmware is functioning correctly.

    Check basic features like WAN connectivity, DHCP, and wireless functionality.

Post‑install essentials​

  • Admin hardening: Change the default web UI port only if you know why; keep HTTPS off unless needed on this hardware.
  • Time/NTP: Set your time zone and NTP so logs and scheduled tasks work reliably.
  • WAN/LAN: Confirm your Internet/WAN settings and DHCP server for LAN are correct.
  • Wi‑Fi: Set SSID(s) and use WPA2‑Personal with AES. Avoid mixed modes that can reduce performance on this device class.
  • Performance sanity: This router has limited RAM/flash. Enable only what you need; avoid heavy features (e.g., running VPN server, complex QoS) to keep it stable.

Troubleshooting​

  • Can’t reach the UI: Try both 192.168.0.1 and 192.168.1.1, clear browser cache, or set your PC to obtain IP automatically and reconnect.
  • Upgrade seems stuck: Give it more time, then power-cycle the router once. If still unresponsive, you may need recovery (e.g., TFTP) or a re-flash.

Rollback to stock firmware​

If you need to revert, there’s a companion video on removing DD‑WRT and reinstalling TP‑Link firmware: Reverting to stock firmware (video).

Community help: The DD-WRT forums are a great resource if you run into issues or have questions.