This article is outdated and is for reference only.
You can now create customized OpenWrt firmware for ZBT routers in just 30 minutes. Here’s the process:
Hardware Requirements:
- Router: An OpenWrt-supported router is essential. For instance, all ZBT routers are compatible with OpenWrt and have serial connectors.
- Linux: A Linux PC is required, such as Ubuntu, Debian, or CentOS. If you only have Windows, you can use a free virtual machine like VirtualBox.
- UART: For advanced development, a USB-UART adapter is necessary.
Software Environment:
Using Ubuntu as an example, here’s how to set up the necessary environment:
Install the required development tools:
```bash
$ apt-get install subversion build-essential libncurses5-dev zlib1g-dev gawk git ccache gettext libssl-dev xsltproc wget
```
Download the Image Builder for your router from our GitHub. These image builders come pre-compiled with all necessary kernel modules and software packages, eliminating the need for manual compilation. Note that our image builders are compiled on 64-bit machines and may not work on 32-bit systems.
Unzip the Image Builder into a folder:
```bash
$ tar jxvf OpenWrt-ImageBuilder-ramips-mt7620.Linux-x86_64.tar.bz2
$ cd OpenWrt-ImageBuilder-ramips-mt7620.Linux-x86_64
```
Start with a Clean Firmware
Download our clean firmware from [ZBT firmware downloads](https://dl.gl-inet.com) and install it on your router. Configure the firmware according to your needs and remember the settings.
Build Your Firmware
Once you have a working firmware, you can build the same firmware using the Image Builder. Detailed guidance is available. It is a simple and quick process.
Document the software packages you installed and the files you modified. For example, if you install `luci-app-upnp` and modify `/etc/config/wireless`, copy the content of the wireless file to your current folder's `files/etc/config/wireless`. Suppose you are building an image for the ZBT-MT300N:
```bash
make image PROFILE=ZBT-MT300N PACKAGES="luci-app-upnp openvpn-openssl kmod-usb-core" FILES=files/
```
Your firmware will be ready in the `bin` folder within minutes.
About ZBT
ZBT is a leader in network device innovation, boasting over a decade of expertise in OEM/ODM services. Our extensive product line includes openWRT Wi-Fi routers, 4G/5G routers, vehicle-mounted routers, access points, outdoor CPE, LTE CPE, and EPON/GPON devices. Each product is meticulously crafted and features unique design and software patents. At ZBT, we are committed to delivering secure and reliable network solutions, empowering global connectivity for homes, businesses, and specialized industries such as smart buildings and IoT networks.