Asus RT-N66U
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{{Languages|Asus RT-N66U}} | {{Languages|Asus RT-N66U}} | ||
[[Image:ASUS RT-N66U.jpg | right | 360px]] | [[Image:ASUS RT-N66U.jpg | right | 360px]] | ||
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- | =Preliminary= | ||
- | This 'Dark Night' is a very powerful piece of equipment and the NVRAM issue has been resolved, however, it presents significant risk (bricking) that requires careful adherence to the installation process. | ||
- | |||
- | Note on 26-Jan-2013: Until someone updates this page (with CFE update etc.), you may want to read here: http://charleswilkinson.co.uk/2012/12/22/dd-wrt-on-the-asus-rt-n66u-with-64k-cfe/ | ||
- | |||
- | ====NVRAM issue==== | ||
- | |||
- | 15-May-2015 The command: [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Asus_T-Mobile_Cellspot#Procedure nvram get bl_version] can be issued to determine the CFE version if you have TELNET or SSH access. The Cellspot wiki contains links to many tools and articles to change the CFE. '''Please consider posting a link to a 64K CFE for future users if you have the knowledge \ resource to do so and delete this statement. | ||
- | ''' | ||
- | |||
- | 25-May-2013: Since BrainSlayer posted some experimental K3.X Images, the NVRAM Issue becomes almost obsolete. Please have a look at the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php?title=Asus_RT-N66U#Installation_Instructions Installation Instructions] for further instructions. | ||
- | |||
- | 9-Apr-2013: It seems more recently manufactured units come pre-loaded with the 64K v1.0.1.3 CFE and so are not compatible with standard DD-WRT builds. Flashing a standard DD-WRT build on these devices will result in a brick. If you don't know which CFE version your unit has when running the stock firmware,anyone wishing to flash DD-WRT on this device is advised to follow this guide: http://charleswilkinson.co.uk/2012/12/22/dd-wrt-on-the-asus-rt-n66u-with-64k-cfe/ | ||
- | |||
- | 1-Nov-2012: Fractal has indicated that the NVRAM is resolved and that 5Ghz is working. | ||
- | [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=otrw+light&start=1022] | ||
- | |||
- | 30-Oct-2012: [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=163479&start=217 RT-N66 CFE Thread] Link to discussion implementing 64K: not sure that this is ready for prime time yet, however, if you try this and feel it is ready, UPDATE THIS STATEMENT and publish the procedure, limitations, and results. | ||
- | |||
- | === DD-WRT Alternatives === | ||
- | As of this writing (June 30, 2012) user Merlin has implemented a solution, that lives with 32k NVRAM for CFE, but extends to ~60k NVRAM in firmware. | ||
- | * download: http://www.mediafire.com/asuswrt-merlin/ | ||
- | * source code: https://github.com/RMerl/asuswrt-merlin/ | ||
- | * home page: http://www.lostrealm.ca/tower/node/79 | ||
- | |||
- | As of July 16, 2012, TomatoUSB, Shibby http://tomato.groov.pl/download/K26RT-N/build5x-097-EN/Asus%20RT-N66u%2064k/ also has implemented a 64k NVRAM solution that lives with 32K NVRAM for CFE | ||
=Hardware= | =Hardware= | ||
- | + | This 'Dark Night' presents significant risk (bricking) that requires careful adherence to the installation process. The NVRAM issue has been resolved, however, knowing what builds can be used must be understood well. | |
- | + | ==Specifications== | |
+ | {| border="1" cellspacing="0" | ||
+ | !CPU | ||
+ | |[https://wikidevi.com/wiki/ASUS_RT-N66U Broadcom 4706] @ 600MHz | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Flash/RAM | ||
+ | |32MB / 256MB | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Wireless support | ||
+ | |2.4GHz and 5GHz bands | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Wireless controller | ||
+ | |[http://www.broadcom.com/press/release.php?id=s474934 Broadcom BCM4331] | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !MIMO config | ||
+ | |3x3 (both bands) (see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=26 Forum, BrainSlayer]) | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !ETH chip | ||
+ | |Broadcom BCM4706 | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Switch | ||
+ | |Broadcom BCM53125 | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Ports | ||
+ | |Gigabit LAN (4) and WAN (1) | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !USB | ||
+ | |2x USB 2.0 | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Other | ||
+ | |Micro SDHC socket (internal) | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Power supply | ||
+ | |DC Output, 19 V, max. 1.58 A current (=> max 30W) | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | !Serial header | ||
+ | |8, n, 1, no flow control, 115200. | ||
+ | |} | ||
- | + | ====Reset button for Recovery==== | |
+ | Pressing the Reset button at powerup will put the N66U into recovery mode. | ||
+ | *Press and hold the reset button while plugging in the power, and keep pressing the reset button for about ten seconds until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button. The router is now in recovery mode: go to 192.168.1.1. | ||
- | == | + | ====WPS button to Clear NVRAM==== |
- | + | Pressing the Red WPS button at powerup will reset (clear NVRAM) to default settings. | |
- | + | *Press and hold the WPS button while plugging in the power, and keep pressing the WPS button for about ten seconds, then release the WPS button. All settings have now been wiped, and default settings will be used. | |
- | + | ||
- | * | + | |
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- | == | + | ===NVRAM issue=== |
- | ''' | + | '''<font color="red">IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds</font> if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER!!!'''<br> |
- | + | At launch, the RT-N66U was limited to 32k nvram. However, CFE (bootloader) version 1.0.1.3 added 64k nvram support around April 2013, but was not compatible with DD-WRT firmware at that time. For details, see these forum links to historical nvram and 64K implemention discussions: [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=otrw+light&start=1022 Fractal comments] and [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=163479&start=217 "RT-N66 CFE Thread"] | |
- | + | This was resolved with DD-WRT K3X builds (kernel 3.x) which extended nvram to 64k, and can be used for any CFE version. It was eventually [https://www.dd-wrt.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1112621#1112621 extended to 256k].<br> | |
+ | More historical info: http://charleswilkinson.co.uk/2012/12/22/dd-wrt-on-the-asus-rt-n66u-with-64k-cfe/<br> | ||
+ | '''For newer CFE version updates''' and procedures see here: [https://www.snbforums.com/threads/cfe-bootloader-update.8259/ SNB Forums]<br> | ||
- | + | ====CFE Version (or Update)==== | |
- | + | [[Asus_RT-N66U#DD-WRT_Alternatives|AsusWRT-Merlin]] can be installed to enable telnet and check the CFE version, and still be flashed directly to DD. | |
+ | *In nvram: nvram get bl_version | ||
+ | *CFE partition: strings /dev/mtd0ro | grep bl_ver | ||
- | That is: press and hold the WPS button, keep pressing the reset button while plugging in the power, then keep holding the WPS button pressed for about ten seconds, then release the WPS button. All settings have now been wiped, and default settings will be used. | ||
- | |||
- | =Installation Instructions= | ||
====K3.X Builds==== | ====K3.X Builds==== | ||
- | + | *'''Read the New Build threads on the forums''', such as [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=311722 '''this''']. | |
- | ''' | + | *Find new builds in the ''Broadcom_K3X'' build folder. Stick with big or mega with n66u in the name. See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware]] for links. |
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- | ''' | + | |
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- | ''' | + | |
- | * | + | |
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====K2.6 Builds==== | ====K2.6 Builds==== | ||
+ | USB (and thus MMC) also does not work in K2.6 builds. USB devices cause a kernel panic: see [http://svn.dd-wrt.com/ticket/2580 SVN ticket]. Use a K3.x build (see above), which also works around the NVRAM issue. | ||
- | + | ==== DD-WRT Alternatives ==== | |
+ | User Merlin implemented a solution in mid-2012 to extend the original 32k NVRAM CFE to ~60k NVRAM in firmware. | ||
+ | *Homepage: https://asuswrt.lostrealm.ca/ | ||
+ | *Download: https://sourceforge.net/projects/asuswrt-merlin/files/ | ||
+ | *Source code: https://github.com/RMerl/asuswrt-merlin/ | ||
+ | TomatoUSB [http://tomato.groov.pl/ Shibby] also implemented a 64k NVRAM solution for 32K NVRAM CFE in 2012. | ||
- | + | ====Historical Build Information==== | |
+ | This is only potentially relevant if using builds from 2015 and earlier. | ||
+ | *If you are already on a custom 64K Build like Fractal or Kong with CFE 1.0.1.3, you need to flash [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2015/02-04-2015-r26138/broadcom_K3X/dd-wrt.v24-26138_NEWD-2_K3.x_mega-nv64k.bin 26138 mega nv64k]. Since K2.6 Builds have an embedded check, you need to use those special nvXXk trailed images. On K3.X this check has been removed and you can simply upgrade from a previous K3.X. | ||
+ | *[http://www.desipro.de/ddwrt-ren/K26/r22000++/kingkong-nv64k-RT-N66U-broadcom.trx Kong 22000++ (7-Jun-2014)] is a recommended build for the RT-N66U with 64K CFE''' with fix for the serious [http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/content/heartbleed-dd-wrtdd-wrt-online-services Heartbleed vulnerability]. | ||
+ | *'''25-May-2013''': With the new experimental [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2013/05-27-2013-r21676/broadcom_K3X-EXPERIMENTAL/ K3.X Broadcom builds], the CFE version is irrelevant. DD-WRT detects it automatically to extend 32KB NVRAM to 64KB. ''Which Image you have to flash, depends on your previous Image (Stock, Merlin, DD-WRT K2.6).'' | ||
+ | *'''9-Apr-2013:''' It seems more recently manufactured units come pre-loaded with the 64K v1.0.1.3 CFE and so are not compatible with standard DD-WRT builds. Flashing a K2.6 DD-WRT build on these devices will result in a brick. | ||
+ | *'''26-Jan-2013:''' Current versions of DD-WRT can quickly run out of 32k nvram. | ||
- | + | =Installation Instructions= | |
+ | For recommended builds, read the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Announcement], New Build, and model-specific threads. | ||
- | ''' | + | ===Preparation=== |
+ | '''For builds and more information''', see here: [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware?]].<br> | ||
+ | '''<font color="red">IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds</font> if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER''' | ||
+ | *Older CFE (32K nvram) can use K2.6: see the above '''K2.6''' and '''K3.X''' sections for details | ||
+ | '''Note:''' Reset '''BEFORE''' and '''AFTER''' firmware upload. If upgrading ''with DD'', ''before'' is optional. | ||
- | + | ====Upload via Web GUI ==== | |
+ | #[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Reset]] via WPS or select Factory Default settings. | ||
+ | #Upload the DD-WRT trailed build ('''N66U big or mega .trx''') using the stock web GUI. | ||
+ | #When complete, wait until the router reboots itself, which '''can take at least 10 minutes'''. You want both ping response and web gui response to know that the router is fully rebooted. | ||
+ | #[[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Hard reset]] or select Factory Default settings. Wait for the router to reboot itself!! | ||
- | + | ====Upload via Recovery Utility==== | |
+ | #Set your computer to a [[Static_IP|static IP]] (e.g. 192.168.1.12), subnet 255.255.255.0, default gateway 192.168.1.1 | ||
+ | #Put router into recovery mode by holding down the reset button while powering up the router, wait until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button. | ||
+ | #Access the Asus CFE recovery mode by issuing 192.168.1.1 in browser field. | ||
+ | #Browse to select the DD-WRT trailed build ('''N66U big or mega .trx''') then click ''Upload''. | ||
+ | #When complete, wait until the router reboots itself, which '''can take at least 10 minutes'''. | ||
+ | #Reset (via WPS) or reenter recovery mode and select to ''Restore defaults NVRAM values'' | ||
+ | #*(Optional?) When it completes (should be quick), type this in the browser field then press enter: | ||
+ | #*http://192.168.1.1/do.htm?cmd=nvram+commit | ||
+ | #Wait until the router reboots itself, then access the DD-WRT GUI at 192.168.1.1 to set a password. | ||
- | === | + | ====Switching from Tomato==== |
- | + | #Download the latest K3.x mega build. See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware?]] for links. | |
+ | #Navigate to the Tomato firmware update page | ||
+ | #* Administration > Upgrade | ||
+ | #Upload the firmware you downloaded in step 1 | ||
+ | #The router will reset several times and change its IP address to the default one (192.168.1.1). | ||
+ | #Navigate to http://192.168.1.1/Factory_Defaults.asp | ||
+ | #* The login credentials have been reset to the default dd-wrt username/password (root/admin) | ||
+ | #Set "Restore Factory Defaults" to yes and click "Apply Settings" | ||
+ | #After reboot, set a new user/password | ||
- | + | ::Note: Many settings will carry over from Tomato to DD-WRT, but it's highly advisable to reset to factory defaults after flashing, or you risk undesired behavior and instability. | |
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=Upgrade to newer DD-WRT= | =Upgrade to newer DD-WRT= | ||
Line 161: | Line 138: | ||
* Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM | * Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM | ||
- | = | + | =Mods= |
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- | + | ===Internal MicroSD card=== | |
+ | The N66U has an unused internal MicroSD card slot, but note that USB (and thus MMC) is not supported on K2.6 builds. However, it is working on K3.x builds. See [http://svn.dd-wrt.com/ticket/2580 SVN ticket] | ||
- | + | #Open the case | |
- | + | #* Unscrew the four screws at the bottom | |
+ | #* Then you want to release the plastic clips that holds the top and bottom parts together. | ||
+ | #* Pry the bottom case outward, which has the male clips. | ||
+ | #* For future access, it is recommended to either snip off the female "U" clips on the top cover, or round off the square edges on the male part of the clip with a nail file. | ||
+ | #Install MicroSD card | ||
+ | #Enable USB features to utilize the MicroSD card | ||
+ | *In addition to DD-WRT NAS features, the extra storage can be used to install Optware or [[Adding_Software_Packages_using_Entware-3X|Entware-3X (recommended over Optware)]] with K3.x builds: [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=156013 OTRW Take 2] | ||
+ | For easier access, see below. | ||
+ | ===Case Top Mod=== | ||
+ | Spacers (~1/4" to 10mm) can be installed to elevate the case top, which allows easier access to the MicroSD card, and also improve cooling. A piece of dark foam and hole punch can be used to retain the top cover LED lighting. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Overclocking=== | ||
+ | Overclocking works since CFE 1.0.1.3, while underclocking worked prior to that. Overclocking may cause instability, or services (like QoS) to behave unpredictably | ||
+ | *Recommended to improve cooling or ventilation when overclocking, like the case top mod | ||
+ | *jwh7 has run @663MHz (CFE 1.0.1.9) without issue for 3 years, with an elevated case top | ||
+ | *There is one report of QoS degradation at 632Mhz with K3.X big r27360 (06/18/15) | ||
+ | |||
+ | =Notes= | ||
+ | *[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Announcement]: '''Required reading''' for DD-WRT on Broadcom routers! | ||
+ | *[https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ Frequently Asked Questions] | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Performance=== | ||
<pre> | <pre> | ||
Test Description RT-N66U | Test Description RT-N66U | ||
Line 185: | Line 174: | ||
Maximum Simultaneous Connections 34,925 | Maximum Simultaneous Connections 34,925 | ||
Firmware Version 3.1.0.3.90 (stock firmware number) | Firmware Version 3.1.0.3.90 (stock firmware number) | ||
- | </pre> | + | </pre> |
+ | [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31687-asus-rt-n66u-dark-knight-dual-band-wireless-n900-gigabit-router-reviewed?start=2 Sources] and [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/lanwan-howto/31103-how-we-test-hardware-routers-revision-3 testing methods] | ||
- | === | + | ===LAN/WAN issue=== |
- | + | There should be no ''vlan0ports'' in nvram for the N66U switch: [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=986347#986347] and [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=936405#936405]<br> | |
- | + | ===Links=== | |
- | + | ||
- | =Links | + | |
Primary forum threads | Primary forum threads | ||
- | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&start=1155 Forum: RT-N66U General Discussion] | ||
- | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=163479&start=451 Forum: RT-N66 CFE Thread] – Information specifically about upgrading to the 64k CFE. | ||
* [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=171783 One User's Guide] - A users guide for flashing Rt-N66u | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=171783 One User's Guide] - A users guide for flashing Rt-N66u | ||
+ | * Possible ways to update CFE (once a 32k+ CFE is released for this router), see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=496 LOM post] | ||
+ | *[[Linking_Routers| Linking Routers]] to cover a bigger area with WiFi | ||
+ | *Wireless tweaking: [[Basic_Wireless_Settings|Basic Wireless Settings]] and [[Advanced_wireless_settings|Advanced Wireless Settings]] | ||
+ | *External antennas: [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=43810 The CATFISH thread] | ||
Additional forum threads | Additional forum threads | ||
Line 202: | Line 192: | ||
* [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=153609&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=5 Forum: Reason for starting from Build 18946] | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=153609&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=5 Forum: Reason for starting from Build 18946] | ||
* [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=154818 Forum: N66U and 32k/64k NVRAM issue] | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=154818 Forum: N66U and 32k/64k NVRAM issue] | ||
- | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=155642 Forum: | + | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=155642 Forum: Open case to add MicroSD card], and a 32Gb card tested [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=155642&start=8 here] |
* [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Asus_RT-N66U_B1 techinfodepot.info on RT-N66U] | * [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Asus_RT-N66U_B1 techinfodepot.info on RT-N66U] | ||
* [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31687-asus-rt-n66u-dark-knight-dual-band-wireless-n900-gigabit-router-reviewed SmallNetBuilder Review] | * [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31687-asus-rt-n66u-dark-knight-dual-band-wireless-n900-gigabit-router-reviewed SmallNetBuilder Review] | ||
* [http://service.asus.com/demoui/RT-N66U/EN/index.html Asus Stock UI demo] | * [http://service.asus.com/demoui/RT-N66U/EN/index.html Asus Stock UI demo] | ||
- | |||
- | * WAN issue fixed in svn18835, see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=214 Forum post, Eko] | ||
- | * Serial inside is: 8, n, 1, no flow control, 115200. | ||
- | * Possible ways to update CFE (once a 32k+ CFE is released for this router), see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=496 Forum, LOM] | ||
- | * Positive report of running svn18740, see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=86437&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=706 Forum post] | ||
- | |||
- | ==Generally good to know == | ||
- | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock Thread-FAQ: EVERYTHING you NEED to know! Really!!] All the basics about DD-WRT on Broadcom based routers - A MUST READ Thread!!! | ||
- | * Get the most speed out of your [[Wireless-N_Configuration|wireless-N technology]] | ||
- | * [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=43810 The CATFISH thread - external antenna choice and use] If you need a better WiFi connection - get a more focused antenna!!! | ||
- | * [[Linking_Routers]] to cover a bigger area with WiFi | ||
- | |||
[[Category:Asus guides]] | [[Category:Asus guides]] |
Revision as of 03:37, 25 February 2018
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Contents |
Hardware
This 'Dark Night' presents significant risk (bricking) that requires careful adherence to the installation process. The NVRAM issue has been resolved, however, knowing what builds can be used must be understood well.
Specifications
CPU | Broadcom 4706 @ 600MHz |
---|---|
Flash/RAM | 32MB / 256MB |
Wireless support | 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands |
Wireless controller | Broadcom BCM4331 |
MIMO config | 3x3 (both bands) (see Forum, BrainSlayer) |
ETH chip | Broadcom BCM4706 |
Switch | Broadcom BCM53125 |
Ports | Gigabit LAN (4) and WAN (1) |
USB | 2x USB 2.0 |
Other | Micro SDHC socket (internal) |
Power supply | DC Output, 19 V, max. 1.58 A current (=> max 30W) |
Serial header | 8, n, 1, no flow control, 115200. |
Reset button for Recovery
Pressing the Reset button at powerup will put the N66U into recovery mode.
- Press and hold the reset button while plugging in the power, and keep pressing the reset button for about ten seconds until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button. The router is now in recovery mode: go to 192.168.1.1.
WPS button to Clear NVRAM
Pressing the Red WPS button at powerup will reset (clear NVRAM) to default settings.
- Press and hold the WPS button while plugging in the power, and keep pressing the WPS button for about ten seconds, then release the WPS button. All settings have now been wiped, and default settings will be used.
NVRAM issue
IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER!!!
At launch, the RT-N66U was limited to 32k nvram. However, CFE (bootloader) version 1.0.1.3 added 64k nvram support around April 2013, but was not compatible with DD-WRT firmware at that time. For details, see these forum links to historical nvram and 64K implemention discussions: Fractal comments and "RT-N66 CFE Thread"
This was resolved with DD-WRT K3X builds (kernel 3.x) which extended nvram to 64k, and can be used for any CFE version. It was eventually extended to 256k.
More historical info: http://charleswilkinson.co.uk/2012/12/22/dd-wrt-on-the-asus-rt-n66u-with-64k-cfe/
For newer CFE version updates and procedures see here: SNB Forums
CFE Version (or Update)
AsusWRT-Merlin can be installed to enable telnet and check the CFE version, and still be flashed directly to DD.
- In nvram: nvram get bl_version
- CFE partition: strings /dev/mtd0ro | grep bl_ver
K3.X Builds
- Read the New Build threads on the forums, such as this.
- Find new builds in the Broadcom_K3X build folder. Stick with big or mega with n66u in the name. See Where do I download firmware for links.
K2.6 Builds
USB (and thus MMC) also does not work in K2.6 builds. USB devices cause a kernel panic: see SVN ticket. Use a K3.x build (see above), which also works around the NVRAM issue.
DD-WRT Alternatives
User Merlin implemented a solution in mid-2012 to extend the original 32k NVRAM CFE to ~60k NVRAM in firmware.
- Homepage: https://asuswrt.lostrealm.ca/
- Download: https://sourceforge.net/projects/asuswrt-merlin/files/
- Source code: https://github.com/RMerl/asuswrt-merlin/
TomatoUSB Shibby also implemented a 64k NVRAM solution for 32K NVRAM CFE in 2012.
Historical Build Information
This is only potentially relevant if using builds from 2015 and earlier.
- If you are already on a custom 64K Build like Fractal or Kong with CFE 1.0.1.3, you need to flash 26138 mega nv64k. Since K2.6 Builds have an embedded check, you need to use those special nvXXk trailed images. On K3.X this check has been removed and you can simply upgrade from a previous K3.X.
- Kong 22000++ (7-Jun-2014) is a recommended build for the RT-N66U with 64K CFE with fix for the serious Heartbleed vulnerability.
- 25-May-2013: With the new experimental K3.X Broadcom builds, the CFE version is irrelevant. DD-WRT detects it automatically to extend 32KB NVRAM to 64KB. Which Image you have to flash, depends on your previous Image (Stock, Merlin, DD-WRT K2.6).
- 9-Apr-2013: It seems more recently manufactured units come pre-loaded with the 64K v1.0.1.3 CFE and so are not compatible with standard DD-WRT builds. Flashing a K2.6 DD-WRT build on these devices will result in a brick.
- 26-Jan-2013: Current versions of DD-WRT can quickly run out of 32k nvram.
Installation Instructions
For recommended builds, read the Peacock Announcement, New Build, and model-specific threads.
Preparation
For builds and more information, see here: Where do I download firmware?.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT USE K2.6 builds if using CFE v1.0.1.3 (64K nvram) or NEWER
- Older CFE (32K nvram) can use K2.6: see the above K2.6 and K3.X sections for details
Note: Reset BEFORE and AFTER firmware upload. If upgrading with DD, before is optional.
Upload via Web GUI
- Reset via WPS or select Factory Default settings.
- Upload the DD-WRT trailed build (N66U big or mega .trx) using the stock web GUI.
- When complete, wait until the router reboots itself, which can take at least 10 minutes. You want both ping response and web gui response to know that the router is fully rebooted.
- Hard reset or select Factory Default settings. Wait for the router to reboot itself!!
Upload via Recovery Utility
- Set your computer to a static IP (e.g. 192.168.1.12), subnet 255.255.255.0, default gateway 192.168.1.1
- Put router into recovery mode by holding down the reset button while powering up the router, wait until the power led is blinking slowly, then release the reset button.
- Access the Asus CFE recovery mode by issuing 192.168.1.1 in browser field.
- Browse to select the DD-WRT trailed build (N66U big or mega .trx) then click Upload.
- When complete, wait until the router reboots itself, which can take at least 10 minutes.
- Reset (via WPS) or reenter recovery mode and select to Restore defaults NVRAM values
- (Optional?) When it completes (should be quick), type this in the browser field then press enter:
- http://192.168.1.1/do.htm?cmd=nvram+commit
- Wait until the router reboots itself, then access the DD-WRT GUI at 192.168.1.1 to set a password.
Switching from Tomato
- Download the latest K3.x mega build. See Where do I download firmware? for links.
- Navigate to the Tomato firmware update page
- Administration > Upgrade
- Upload the firmware you downloaded in step 1
- The router will reset several times and change its IP address to the default one (192.168.1.1).
- Navigate to http://192.168.1.1/Factory_Defaults.asp
- The login credentials have been reset to the default dd-wrt username/password (root/admin)
- Set "Restore Factory Defaults" to yes and click "Apply Settings"
- After reboot, set a new user/password
- Note: Many settings will carry over from Tomato to DD-WRT, but it's highly advisable to reset to factory defaults after flashing, or you risk undesired behavior and instability.
Upgrade to newer DD-WRT
- Clear settings (Clear NVRAM)
- Use the DD-WRT web GUI : Administration -> Firmware upgrade
- Clear settings (Clear NVRAM)
- svn24461 BRICKS RT-N66U. Recover possible through mini CFE webinterface.
Revert to original ASUS firmware
- Download firmware from ASUS web site
- Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM
- Use the DD-WRT web gui: Administration -> Firmware upgrade
- Reset to Factory Default Settings or clear NVRAM
Mods
Internal MicroSD card
The N66U has an unused internal MicroSD card slot, but note that USB (and thus MMC) is not supported on K2.6 builds. However, it is working on K3.x builds. See SVN ticket
- Open the case
- Unscrew the four screws at the bottom
- Then you want to release the plastic clips that holds the top and bottom parts together.
- Pry the bottom case outward, which has the male clips.
- For future access, it is recommended to either snip off the female "U" clips on the top cover, or round off the square edges on the male part of the clip with a nail file.
- Install MicroSD card
- Enable USB features to utilize the MicroSD card
- In addition to DD-WRT NAS features, the extra storage can be used to install Optware or Entware-3X (recommended over Optware) with K3.x builds: OTRW Take 2
For easier access, see below.
Case Top Mod
Spacers (~1/4" to 10mm) can be installed to elevate the case top, which allows easier access to the MicroSD card, and also improve cooling. A piece of dark foam and hole punch can be used to retain the top cover LED lighting.
Overclocking
Overclocking works since CFE 1.0.1.3, while underclocking worked prior to that. Overclocking may cause instability, or services (like QoS) to behave unpredictably
- Recommended to improve cooling or ventilation when overclocking, like the case top mod
- jwh7 has run @663MHz (CFE 1.0.1.9) without issue for 3 years, with an elevated case top
- There is one report of QoS degradation at 632Mhz with K3.X big r27360 (06/18/15)
Notes
- Peacock Announcement: Required reading for DD-WRT on Broadcom routers!
- Frequently Asked Questions
Performance
Test Description RT-N66U WAN - LAN 732 Mbps LAN - WAN 729 Mbps Total Simultaneous 810 Mbps Maximum Simultaneous Connections 34,925 Firmware Version 3.1.0.3.90 (stock firmware number)
LAN/WAN issue
There should be no vlan0ports in nvram for the N66U switch: [1] and [2]
Links
Primary forum threads
- One User's Guide - A users guide for flashing Rt-N66u
- Possible ways to update CFE (once a 32k+ CFE is released for this router), see LOM post
- Linking Routers to cover a bigger area with WiFi
- Wireless tweaking: Basic Wireless Settings and Advanced Wireless Settings
- External antennas: The CATFISH thread
Additional forum threads