Linksys EA4500: OpenWrt Compatibility Report

The Linksys EA4500 runs OpenWrt 25.12.0 on the ath79/nand target, and has been supported since 22.03.3. Its WiFi 4 (N) wireless on the ath9k driver rates excellent for open-source driver support (0.85/1.0), installation is rated easy, and it is still sold new.

Drivers: Excellent (0.85) WiFi 4 (N) Install: easy

Hardware data and retail listings last checked .

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Specifications

SoC Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558
CPU 1 core @ 720 MHz
RAM 128 MB
Flash 128 MB (NAND)
Ethernet ports 5
USB 1x 2.0
WiFi generation WiFi 4 (N)
Radios 2.4GHz: b/g/n · 5GHz: a/n
WLAN hardware Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558, Atheros AR9580
WLAN driver ath9k
OpenWrt target ath79 / nand
Package architecture mips_24kc
Current release 25.12.0
Supported since 22.03.3
Install method GUI OEM, U-Boot TFTP + serial recovery
Install difficulty easy
Power supply 12 VDC, 2.0 A
Device type Home router
Estimated throughput 90 Mbps
Availability available

Installing OpenWrt on the EA4500

Installation on this device is rated easy. You can flash it from the stock web interface without opening the case or using a serial cable. Documented methods: GUI OEM, U-Boot TFTP + serial recovery.

Official OpenWrt device page for the EA4500

Flashing third-party firmware can brick a router and usually voids the warranty. Always check that the firmware image matches your exact hardware version.

Hardware versions

The EA4500 ships in several hardware revisions with different chipsets. Match the version printed on your device label before flashing.

Version Target Current release WLAN hardware
V3 shown above ath79/nand 25.12.0 Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558, Atheros AR9580
V2 kirkwood/generic 25.12.5 2x Marvell 88W8366

Other routers to consider

GL.iNet GL-X300B (Collie)

WiFi 4 (N) Drivers: Excellent $126

KuWFi CPE830(D)

WiFi 4 (N) Drivers: Excellent

YunCore CPE830(D)

WiFi 4 (N) Drivers: Excellent

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