About

I've decided to make my own blog for the Atheros-based router Buffalo WZR-HP-G300NH. While based on my use of this router, the tutorials are not exclusive to it and can be used for other atheros-based platforms. Many posts are derived from the blog at http://g300nh.blogspot.com/. Since the maintainer of that blog has more or less abandoned his blog, I will copy over his posts and update them to reflect updates or errors. Also, I will add completely original posts of my own from my own work with this clever toy. I, like him, was looking to replace my old 802.11g router and I had a rather specific and similar list of requirements for it.

  • Support for DD-WRT or OpenWRT
  • Wireless-N (2.4ghz and/or 5ghz) and Gigabit LAN
  • USB support (this is the most fun part)
  • As much RAM and ROM as possible
  • External (preferably removable) antennae
  • Affordable. ~$100 or less.
Honestly, I wish I had purchased the Asus RT-N16 for its removable antennae, dual USB ports and more ample RAM. But, the N16 uses a Broadcom chip, so it is not compatible with OpenWRT. It is a rough choice.

I used the afore mentioned blog, DD-WRT's forums, and OpenWRT forums to make a very capable always-on low power linux box. I use a self powered USB hub to create more ports from the single USB connection on the router. Using a self powered hub, and not a port-powered hub, is absolutely necessary - not just optional. This is because the router can only pull as much power as its adaptor can put out. This can cause problems when attaching multiple devices via the hub and can too much strain on the router's hardware if overdrawn.

I will try to make this blog easy to use for both DD-WRT and OpenWRT users. Personally, I use OpenWRT for its extreme flexibility and open capabilities. DD-WRT is a more friendly option, but because it is closed source, it cannot use the open source ath9k drivers that are a lot more stable. DD-WRT also cannot use a swap partition as support for swap has been rescinded. A swap partition/file is required if you want to use multiple programs defined here. I do not recommend installing OpenWRT if you're completely new to a linux command line, but if you're willing to work it is rewarding.

I am writing all of this as a guide, a jumping off point, and a source of new project ideas. If you need help, please do not email me asking for assistance, I am not a help line. Use the appropriate forums or comments within the blog. Feel free to contact me if you notice any errors or updates that require editing.