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Why someone might choose ZRouter.org for their router?

1. It's Based on FreeBSD:

This is the most significant differentiator. Users who are already familiar with and prefer the FreeBSD operating system would naturally gravitate towards ZRouter.org. They might appreciate its reputation for stability, security, and robust networking stack.

2. High Degree of Customization and Modularity:

ZRouter.org appears to be highly customizable. The "QuickStart" guide indicates that users can select specific "profiles" and "packages" to include in their firmware build. This allows for a lean and tailored firmware that only includes the necessary features, potentially leading to better performance and a smaller footprint.

Examples of selectable packages include ipfw (the FreeBSD firewall), openvpn, ssh, and various DHCP clients and servers. This granular control is a significant advantage for users who want to build a router with a specific set of functionalities.

3. Support for a Variety of Hardware:

The project's website and search results mention support for various embedded devices, including specific models from D-Link and community boards like the Banana Pi. This indicates an active effort to port the firmware to different platforms, offering an alternative to the stock firmware on those devices.

4. Open Source and Community-Driven:

Like many alternative router firmwares, ZRouter.org is an open-source project. This means the source code is freely available for inspection, modification, and contribution. For security-conscious users and developers, this transparency is a major plus. The presence of an issue tracker and a community forum suggests an active, albeit potentially small, community of users and developers.

5. Potential for High Performance and Stability:

FreeBSD is known for its performance and stability, particularly in networking applications. Users who prioritize these aspects for their router might choose ZRouter.org with the expectation that it will inherit these qualities from its underlying operating system.

Summary

In essence, people who choose ZRouter.org are likely to be:

  • FreeBSD enthusiasts: They are comfortable with the FreeBSD environment and want to use it on their router.
  • Users with specific needs: They want to build a highly customized router firmware with a particular set of features and without the bloat of a more general-purpose firmware.
  • Developers and tinkerers: They are interested in the open-source nature of the project and may want to contribute to its development or port it to new hardware.

It's important to note that ZRouter.org seems to be a more niche project compared to more widely known firmwares like OpenWrt or DD-WRT. This means that while it offers a high degree of control, it might have a steeper learning curve and a smaller community to draw support from. The choice to use ZRouter.org would likely be a deliberate one based on a preference for FreeBSD and a desire for deep customization.