I have a TP-Link router and I want to try OpenWrt on it. Have other people tried this? How did it go? Is it difficult to revert if it doesn't work? I'm nervous because it's my main router.

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[–] grue@lemmy.world 19 points 2 days ago (2 children)

I use OpenWRT on a TP-Link router (an Archer C7, circa 2013). I can't say if it's difficult to revert because I've never wanted to (which should tell you all you need to know).

If you're nervous, get a second router as a backup device. OpenWRT runs on all sorts of things, including some which are extremely cheap. If finding some old used router is too much of a hassle, this thing is $30 brand new and runs OpenWRT from the factory.

[–] ian@yoneda.functor.town 10 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (1 children)

Oh yeah, seconding the recommendation for GL.iNet routers with OpenWrt (technically their slightly modified fork but it's very close to stock) preinstalled as an easy way to get your feet wet. They're pretty nifty little travel routers, good to have if you don't already make a habit of putting something between your gadgets and hotel wifi.

[–] grue@lemmy.world 2 points 2 days ago

To be clear, I'm only suggesting that Mango router if (a) OP is nervous about installing OpenWRT without a backup device and (b) he can't find some secondhand compatible device even cheaper.

Don't get me wrong, I also have a Mango router that I bought on a whim years ago on sale for maybe $10, and it's fine for what it is, but paying $30 for it today should only be a last resort. OP doesn't need anything beyond the (presumably compatible) TP-Link device he already has.

[–] GenderNeutralBro@lemmy.sdf.org 6 points 2 days ago

I can’t say if it’s difficult to revert because I’ve never wanted to

Same.

If you never do anything advanced, it's as easy as any stock UI.

If you do want to do advanced things, it's probably your only option because most stock firmware is ass on consumer-grade devices.