Below you will find reading materials and videos that support today’s topic and the upcoming lecture. Reading
1. What makes the Linksys WRT54GL famous? The Linksys WRT54GL is famous for its open-source firmware and its role in the development of custom router firmware like DD-WRT.
2. Given it’s age, why do people continue to buy the Linksys WRT54GL? People still buy the Linksys WRT54GL due to its reputation for customization and nostalgia, but it may not be the best choice for modern internet needs.
3. What does the “WRT54GL” stand for in the name? "WRT54GL" stands for "Wireless-G Router with 4-Port Switch, Linux.”
4. What did Linksys sell before routers? Linksys primarily sold network cards and connectivity products before routers.
5. When did Linksys preview their first consumer router? Linksys previewed their first consumer router in 2002.
6. Who suggested to name it a “router”? The term "router" was likely suggested by marketing or engineering teams at Linksys.
7. What happened when Cisco replaced the Linux-based firmware with the VxWorks platform? Replacing Linux-based firmware with VxWorks made the router less customizable, limiting its appeal to enthusiasts.
8. Why doesn’t the WRT54GL model need to be modified to abide by the new FCC rules? The WRT54GL doesn't need modification to abide by new FCC rules because it's designed to comply with those regulations.
9. Does the WRT54GL model still get updates from Linksys? Linksys no longer provides official updates for the WRT54GL model.
Resources Used:
Fascinating history: What one home router can do - The WRT54GL https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/07/the-wrt54gl-a-54mbps-router-from-2005-still-makes-millions-for-linksys/
Lab: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1d7_S3g0Cf9JVSKYEGbwc4eZL-78UAf0tEqpoF1IAwj8/edit?usp=sharing