ZyXEL NBG6616: OpenWrt Compatibility Report
The ZyXEL NBG6616 runs OpenWrt 25.12.0 on the ath79/generic target, and has been supported since 17.01.0. Its WiFi 5 (AC) wireless on the ath9k driver rates excellent for open-source driver support (0.85/1.0), installation is rated moderate, and it is no longer sold new.
Hardware data and retail listings last checked .
Where to buy
We have no current retail listing for the ZyXEL NBG6616, which is no longer sold new. See current alternatives for devices you can still buy today.
Specifications
| SoC | Qualcomm Atheros QCA9557 |
|---|---|
| CPU | 1 core @ 720 MHz |
| RAM | 128 MB |
| Flash | 16 MB |
| Ethernet ports | 5 |
| USB | 2x 2.0 |
| WiFi generation | WiFi 5 (AC) |
| Radios | 2.4GHz: b/g/n · 5GHz: a/n/ac |
| WLAN hardware | Qualcomm Atheros QCA9557, Qualcomm Atheros QCA9882 |
| WLAN driver | ath9k, ath10k-ct |
| OpenWrt target | ath79 / generic |
| Package architecture | mips_24kc |
| Current release | 25.12.0 |
| Supported since | 17.01.0 |
| Install method | CLI generic, see devicepage |
| Install difficulty | moderate |
| Power supply | 12 VDC, 2.0A |
| Device type | Home router |
| Estimated throughput | 90 Mbps |
| Availability | discontinued |
Installing OpenWrt on the NBG6616
Installation on this device is rated moderate. Expect to use a recovery mode, TFTP or a vendor tool rather than a plain web upload. Documented methods: CLI generic, see devicepage.
Official OpenWrt device page for the NBG6616
Flashing third-party firmware can brick a router and usually voids the warranty. Always check that the firmware image matches your exact hardware version.
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