The new release adds OpenVPN policy routing and Tor 0.2.5.12

Apr 27, 2015 06:35 GMT  ·  By

Being targeted at router owners who desire to install custom firmware on their devices, AsusWrt-Merlin’s 378.53.0 software release updates Tor version to 0.2.5.12, merges with Asus GPL 378_4980 code, and includes several other changes.

One interesting addition would be the implementation of OpenVPN policy routing. Through this feature, you can choose client or destination IPs that you want to pass through the VPN tunnel.

In addition to that, the routing policy allows selecting one IP or an entire subnet (in CIDR format), and also gives you the ability to block WAN access in case your VPN tunnel has problems.

Moving forward, firmware 378.53.0 adds an experimental ad blocker based on Trend Micro's Web Reputation System (WRS), fixes DNSFilter failure issue, removes OpenVPN client firewall “external” mode from WebUI, and include other changes detailed in the Release Notes below.

When it comes to upgrading to this release, download and extract the appropriate archive for your device model, establish a wired connection between router and computer, log into its administration page, and go to the firmware update section.

From there, click the “Choose File” button, navigate and select the .trx file from within the newly created folder, and allow your router to upload and then install the new firmware.

Bear in mind that, during installation, you mustn’t remove the power/Ethernet cable or turn off any of the devices. Interrupting the update process can result in serious device malfunctions.

Another aspect that you should take into account is that this release can be applied like any ASUS official firmware and can be reverted by installing the appropriate software. However, loading a saved copy of your settings from one firmware to another isn’t recommended.

With this in mind, download AsusWrt-Merlin Router Firmware 378.53.0 for your specific model, apply it, and check our website as often as possible in order to stay “updated one minute ago.”

Release Notes

Compatible ASUS routers (11 Images)

ASUS RT-AC3200 Front View
ASUS RT-AC3200 Back ViewASUS RT-AC87 Router
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