A few months ago, the FCC announced rules that seemed like it might start restricting consumer Wi-Fi hacking. If that had you worried, rest easy. The FCC has altered its plan and you can modify your router firmware with no legal barriers whatsoever.


While Wi-Fi hacking was never technically illegal, there was a concern recently when the FCC proposed new rules included phrases implying routers would be “protected from ‘flashing’ and the installation of third-party firmware such as DD-WRT.” While the goal was to prevent users from turning their Wi-Fi routers into overpowered radios that interfere with others’ normal usage of their equipment, the wording was overly broad.

Fortunately, the FCC has clarified the document, removed the problematc wording, and issued a statement reiterating that it does not intend to block custom router firmware entirely. So, flash away, young hackers.


Clearing the Air on Wi-Fi Software Updates | FCC via Hackaday