Before we talk about the risks involved when using or installing open source firmware, let’s find out first what firmware really is.
Firmware is a term referring to the combined software and hardware programs integrated into a device’s main chip that enables it to function properly. It also controls how a device will function and behave. The firmware is embedded into the devices’ ROM during manufacturing of the device. It can be updated to add features, fix known-issues or bugs, or for compatibility functions. Normally, the device manufacturer releases its own firmware for each specific device. But there are a lot of open source firmware that can be used for some devices. One example of an open source firmware is the DD-WRT.
What is DD-WRT?
The DD-WRT is a Linux-based third-party software, and is one of the most popular open source firmware mainly designed for wireless routers and access points. It is compatible with some router models such as the WRT54G series (WRT54GL and WRT54GS) from Linksys. This firmware, when loaded, overwrites the original firmware, with the purpose of providing additional features and functions to the device. The DD-WRT firmware can provide advanced capabilities, which transforms a regular home router into a more powerful and versatile one.
Open source firmware is very much accessible and can save time and money for the developers. It’s now becoming an important tool in developing commercial firmware.
However, using an open source firmware can also bring the following risks:
Risks Involved When Using an Open Source Firmware:
It will sacrifice the warranty status of the device – Every manufacturer provides a hardware warranty for their products. This means that altering the device’s firmware will void its hardware warranty, since the initial firmware came from them.
Unable to receive technical assistance, replacement, and other privileges from the product’s manufacturer – Aside from getting a warranty void, you can also no longer avail the technical assistance, replacement, and other privileges that are usually offered by the product manufacturer since it was already altered. Though the physical appearance of the product the name of the manufacturer is still intact, the core of the device is not same as the official release of the product.
Not all devices that support this firmware will work properly – There is a possibility that a device’s functionality will no longer work because its manufacturer releases their own platform for each device that they produce.
Device Malfunctions – Instead of enhancing the device’s features, there’s also a possibility that it becomes the other way around. Loading an open source firmware can damage either the device’s performance or the hardware itself.
Security – Most hackers prefer to use open source firmware than commercial firmware because it’s vulnerable and less security.
Using an open source firmware both has its pros and cons. It’s for you to decide whether you’re prepared to face the risks your device may encounter or just stick with the one that already installed.
Article By: Kharla Mae Proel – Tech Support Engineer at SUPPORTrix