I recently read about TP-Link’s update deadline , and it got me thinking about what people could do with routers that still have perfectly good hardware. Currently, a US waiver permits qualifying TP-Link firmware updates until at least January 1, 2029, and that date could change once again.

At this stage, there’s no need to rush out and replace your router.

But it did give me a reason to explore OpenWrt once again. On compatible hardware, this alternative router firmware lets you keep all your familiar networking functionality while adding a really cool range of tools of your own choosing.

If your TP-Link router supports OpenWrt, you might be surprised at just how many extra features you can pack into its existing hardware.

Check the version of the label first

The same Archer name doesn’t always mean the same hardware is under the hood

OpenWrt is an open-source operating system that can replace your router’s original firmware .…