Linksys WRT54GL v1 WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The Linksys WRT54GL v1 (WRT54GLV1) router released in 2005. It is powered by Broadcom BCM5352 @ 200 MHz chipset, 16 MB of RAM and 4 MB of flash. The G54 router is compatible with IEEE 802.11b/g standards, and the maximum speed that you can get with WRT54GL v1 is 54 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100 Mbps WAN and 4 x 10/100 Mbps LAN ports.
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Our personal experiences and opinions form the basis of this article. We aimed to share insights on a topic, and we hoped others would find it useful and inspirational. The specs below rely on official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you noticed any mistakes or missing details about the Linksys WRT54GL v1, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The WRT54GL v1 has a user-friendly interface. It is accessible to users with varying levels of expertise. Linksys is another well-known manufacturer in the networking industry.
Linksys WRT54GL v1 specifications
| Brand | Linksys |
|---|---|
| Name | WRT54GL v1 |
| Type | WRT54GLV1 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2005 |
Body
| Dimensions | 186 x 48 x 154 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 391 g |
If you plan to move or travel a lot and need to take your router with you, the size is important. It needs to be small to be easy to carry. If you plan to mount your router on a wall or ceiling, the weight can affect the mounting process. It also affects the type of mounting hardware needed.
System
| Chipset | Broadcom BCM5352 @ 200 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 16 MB |
| Flash | 4 MB |
| OS | Linksys Linux based open-source |
| Alternative OS | OpenWRT DD-WRT Tomato |
| Power supply | 12 V / 1 A |
The Broadcom BCM5352 @ 200 MHz CPU provides processing power. It handles tasks and services within the WRT54GL v1 router. The 16 MB of RAM enables the router to handle multiple tasks and processes concurrently. Flash memory retains its data even when the router is off. This allows the router to keep its firmware and settings across reboots. The firmware upgrade process may vary depending on the router model. However, it often involves accessing the router's web-based administration interface.
Other router operating systems offer more customization options. They also have advanced features. Router makers compare this to the default firmware. OpenWrt is an open-source operating system. It provides customizable firmware for embedded devices, like routers and access points. The Linksys packages the WRT54GL v1 router with 12 V / 1 A PSU.
Network
| Protocols | IPv4 |
|---|---|
| LAN ports | 4 x 10/100 Mbps |
| WAN ports | 1 x 10/100 Mbps |
| Mobile network | no |
| VPN support | no |
Like many modern routers, the Linksys WRT54GL v1 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. The IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses, represented as four sets of numbers separated by periods (e.g. 192.168.0.1). The WRT54GL v1 features a Fast Ethernet WAN port that has a maximum speed of 100 Mbps.
Wireless
| Antennas | 2 x 2 dBi RP-SMA |
|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | yes |
| 5 GHz | no |
| 60 GHz | no |
| Standards | IEEE 802.11b/g |
| Class | G54 |
| Speed | 54 Mbps |
| Transmit power | 18 dBm |
| Security | WEP WPA2 |
| Guest network | no |
A well-positioned antenna can reduce interference and signal weakening. This leads to a more reliable connection. The WRT54GL v1 is compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. The 802.11g or Wireless-G operates in the 2.4 GHz band. It provides faster data transfer at up to 54 Mbps. The top speed, 54 Mbps, is the highest data rate the router can reach. It's the theoretical limit in perfect conditions. WEP was the first Wi-Fi security protocol. But it is now seen as weak and easy to hack. The introduction of WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) improved upon WEP. It provides stronger security.
Connectivity
| USB ports | no |
|---|---|
| Print server | no |
| File server | no |
The WRT54GL v1 router doesn't have file-server or print-server functionality.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | [blank] |
| Default password | admin |
Changing the password often is a good security practice. It protects your network and devices from unauthorized access. Changing the default password improves your router's security. It reduces the risk of unauthorized individuals controlling your network.
Pros and Cons
Every router, including this Linksys one, has its good sides and not-so-good sides. Let's take a closer look at both to get a full understanding of what this router can do. We'll talk about what it does well and also where it could use some improvements. Just remember, this is just what I think, and you might see things differently.
Pros
- lightweight
- OpenWrt compatible
Cons
- insufficient memory
- insufficient flash
- lack of Gigabit LAN
- Non-gigabit WAN port
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- lacks Wi-Fi 5 compatibility
- reduced Wi-Fi bandwidth
- incompatible with WPA3
- missing WPS support
- no USB connectivity
Linksys WRT54GL v1 photos
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