Take the WRT54G challenge!
<p>So, LinkSys (formerly independent, now a tentacle of Cisco) has<br />
brought the Linux version of their WRT54GL wireless router back to<br />
life.  We&#8217;d previously heard that Version 5 of the box would run<br />
proprietary VxWorks firmware. But according to <a href='http://www.linuxdevices.com/news/NS4729641740.html'>this<br />
story</a> over at LinuxDevices.com,</p>
<blockquote><p>
LinkSys is shipping a Linux-based WRT54GL model that it says it<br />
created specially for Linux hobbyists, hackers, and aficianados[sic]. The L<br />
version is identical to the &#8220;series 4&#8243; WRT54G units that Linux<br />
hobbyists have long enjoyed hacking, according to the company. [...]
</p></blockquote>
<p>Here&#8217;s the key &#8216;graf:</p>
<blockquote><p>
VxWorks allowed the company to halve the amounts of Flash and RAM in<br />
the device, while retaining similar functionality. Apparently,<br />
reducing memory-related BOM (bill-of-materials) costs more than offset<br />
the costs of licensing a proprietary OS
</p></blockquote>
<p>You know, to me that sounds like a challenge.  Personally, I have<br />
no firmware-hacking or cross-development skills; my interests lie in<br />
other directions.  But some eager band of Linux hackers out there<br />
should strip Linux down far enough that it can fit in the reduced<br />
footprint, just to prove it can be done and undercut the idea that<br />
proprietary firmware is <em>ever</em> a good idea.  And I have no<br />
doubt it can be done; heck, we&#8217;ve made Linux run on a Z80!</p>
<p>(I maintain the<br />
<a href='http://en.tldp.org/HOWTO/Linksys-Blue-Box-Router-HOWTO/'>Linksys<br />
Blue Box Router HOWTO</a>.  There might be a new version, reflecting the<br />
fact that Cisco has dropped its lawsuit against Michael Flynn, up on the<br />
LDP site by the time you read this.)</p>
