I realize it’s not a new technology (its on ver. 23), but its one I’ve recently adopted. We’re planning on doing some re-arranging to put an office in the house, and that means computers in different rooms. What I need now, I said to myself, is a way of extending my wireless network to another room… preferably with a router on the other end too so I can plug in a non-wireless computer.
The problem: The firmware for my Linksys WRT54G doesn’t allow that, at least not easily.
Enter the DD-WRT firmware package to save the day. This package gives you full “god-mode-like” control over your router’s settings, and thus your entire wireless network. Multiple routers can be placed in the same space to allow a WLAN to be extended to a much greater range (this is the same basic principle as a cellular network). The principle is referred to as a Wireless Distribution System (WDS), with the individual access points acting as repeaters.
Next week I’ll be picking up the second node for my Wireless home network so that I can finally move that other computer upstairs! 
DD-WRT has a ton of other features including the ability to host a hot-spot of your very own. This is particularly useful for small businesses who may wish to offer wifi connectivity on their premises. Check out the DD-WRT wiki for a full rundown on what this package can do.
For additional information on tricking out your Linksys WRT54G, check out Aaron Wiess’ article “The Open Source WRT54G Story” on wi-fiplanet.com.
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