I just published a short, but real time video walk-through on how to replace the factory-installed closed-source firmware with OpenWRT, which is an open-source Linux operating system for embedded devices, primarily for routers.
In the video I simply followed the steps listed on the OpenWRT website, I haven’t added or removed anything. I created this video because I know there are many who would like to convert their routers to open source and/or something more powerful, but are afraid of the technical aspects of the process. I hope that watching this video will prove that it is a very simple process, can be done in about 5 minutes with only basic computer skills (if you can plug in and out cables and can use copy and paste, you’re good to go).
The only specialty hardware you need for this process is a computer that runs Linux. If you don’t have one at hand, don’t despair: you can use a virtual machine too! I’m not going into the details on how to make one as there are countless examples, tutorials, and walk-throughs on the inter web of things.
I sincerely hope that if you were on the fence, watching this video nudges you towards taking the leap and doing it yourself too.
WARNING: This process is specific to the Xiaomi Redmi AC2100 router. Do not attempt to follow the same process for any other router as it may damage or even break your router! If you have another model (even if it only differs in a minor revision number it can be considered a different one), check out if it is supported on the Table of Hardware page. Also, make sure you understand that if you decide to follow either this walk-through, you do this at your own risk.
I recommend reading the FULL page with the original instructions first, then follow it carefully, by the letter. Use my video as a confirmation that you understood the steps you read.
For those who want a more private video watching experience, here is a link to the same video on a distributed video sharing platform.
