Building a Router from Scratch: A Beginner's Guide

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the complexities of building a router from scratch, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation in electrical engineering and computer science. Participants recommend starting with dd-wrt, an open-source router firmware, to understand both software and hardware requirements. Key considerations include understanding router functions, the necessity of existing libraries, and the importance of firmware knowledge. The conversation highlights the challenges involved and suggests that aspiring builders focus on specific aspects of router technology to gain expertise.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of router architecture and functions
  • Familiarity with dd-wrt firmware and its source code
  • Knowledge of programming in C and assembly language
  • Experience with hardware design and testing methodologies
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the dd-wrt source code to learn about router firmware
  • Research online courses for learning C programming and operating system functions
  • Explore the intricacies of Ethernet and TCP stacks
  • Engage with the dd-wrt community for practical insights and contributions
USEFUL FOR

Networking engineers, hardware designers, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of router technology and firmware development.

  • #31
Averagesupernova said:
And as I said in post #4?

And as I said in post #27.
 
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  • #32
LOL --- I was complaining about your post 27 when I quoted it in post 28. Did you even notice that? Do you even read this stuff?

I didn't count Averagesupernova's post 4 because he didn't provide any specific helpful information. (I want to build a router --- OK, study some routers)

Anyway, I think the consensus is clear. Download some router firmware and start dissecting it. I happen to like dd-wrt, but maybe there are simpler implementations to start with.
 
  • #33
meBigGuy said:
LOL --- I was complaining about your post 27 when I quoted it in post 28. Did you even notice that? Do you even read this stuff?

I didn't count Averagesupernova's post 4 because he didn't provide any specific helpful information. (I want to build a router --- OK, study some routers)

Anyway, I think the consensus is clear. Download some router firmware and start dissecting it. I happen to like dd-wrt, but maybe there are simpler implementations to start with.

I know what you were complaining about. Where I live we have a thing called humour, I know this is a foreign concept to some people and I also know that humour often doesn't translate well across national boundaries. Smile!
 
  • #34
us dummies need smilies :) or we don't know to laugh.
 
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