Linksys EA9500: OpenWrt Compatibility Report
The Linksys EA9500 runs OpenWrt 24.10.4 on the bcm53xx/generic target, and has been supported since 21.02.0. Its WiFi 5 (AC) wireless on the brcmfmac driver rates limited for open-source driver support (0.45/1.0), installation is rated easy, and it is still sold new. Parts of its wireless hardware are known to misbehave under OpenWrt.
Hardware data and retail listings last checked .
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Specifications
| SoC | Broadcom BCM4709C0 |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2 cores @ 1400 MHz |
| RAM | 256 MB |
| Flash | 128 MB (NAND) |
| Ethernet ports | 9 |
| USB | 1x 2.0, 1x 3.0 |
| WiFi generation | WiFi 5 (AC) |
| Radios | 2.4GHz: b/g/n · 5GHz: a/n/ac |
| WLAN hardware | 3x Broadcom BCM4366 |
| WLAN driver | brcmfmac |
| OpenWrt target | bcm53xx / generic |
| Package architecture | arm_cortex-a9 |
| Current release | 24.10.4 |
| Supported since | 21.02.0 |
| Install method | GUI OEM, CFE TFTP + serial recovery, see forum |
| Install difficulty | easy |
| Power supply | 12 VDC, 5.0 A |
| Device type | Home router |
| Estimated throughput | 489 Mbps |
| Availability | available |
Installing OpenWrt on the EA9500
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, CFE TFTP + serial recovery, see forum.
For external image see forum.
Official OpenWrt device page for the EA9500
Flashing third-party firmware can brick a router and usually voids the warranty. Always check that the firmware image matches your exact hardware version.
Other routers to consider
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Ubiquiti UniFi UK-Ultra
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