dd-wrt - "power to the router"

DD-WRT is a Linux based alternative OpenSource firmware suitable for a great variety of WLAN routers and embedded systems. The main emphasis lies on providing the easiest possible handling while at the same time supporting a great number of functionalities within the framework of the respective hardware platform used.

The graphical user interface is logically structured, and it is operated via a standard Web browser, so even non-technicians can configure the system in only a few simple steps.

Apart from the simple handling, speed and stability are also in the focus of our development work. Compared to the software preinstalled on many WLAN routers, DD-WRT allows a reliable operation with a clearly larger functionality that also fulfills the demands of professional deployment.

The huge user community gives support to DD-WRT developers and the users themselves in various ways. Thanks to this, potential flaws in the system can be detected very quickly and can thus be corrected without delay. DD-WRT users can find help and suggestions from other users in the user forums, and the Wiki containing further information and how-to guides is being expanded and maintained by the DD-WRT community as well.

For devices mainly used for private purposes, DD-WRT is freely available. Platforms used for commercial purposes require a paid license. Compared to the freely available version, the professional version also allows for configuration of the WLAN parameters, thus opening up the opportunity of creating e.g. reliable and powerful network infrastructures. Special demands can be fulfilled by specifically tailored versions of DD-WRT.

Main characteristics:

supports more than 200 different devices
comprehensive functionality
supports all current WLAN standards (802.11a/b/g/n*)
supports outdoor deployment*
supports enhanced frequencies *
VPN integration
supports various Hotspot systems
bandwidth management
multilingual user interface
*appropriate WLAN hardware required

DD-WRT is:

Sebastian Gottschall (BrainSlayer, founder, maindeveloper)
Christian Scheele (Chris, CEO)
Peter Steinhäuser (CEO)
Felix Fietkau (nbd/openwrt, madwifi)
Ankush Malhotra (Maksat)
Ales Majdic (Eko, Developer)
Sylvain Bothorel (Botho, router webdesign)
Elke Scheele (Online Shop)
Markus Quint (support)

... and a lot of supporters around the world

Source: http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/content/about