Can NXP Help Save the WRT1900ACS? Open-Source Driver Support Needed!

[TheKillerBee]

Hi NXP Community,

I’m starting this thread as a long-time user of the Linksys WRT1900ACS and a member of the OpenWRT community. These routers, powered by the Marvell 88W8964 chipset, are still fantastic pieces of hardware—but they’re being held back by the mwlwifi driver. It’s frustrating to see such capable devices slowly becoming obsolete because of software limitations.

Back in 2015, Marvell released an open-source version of the mwlwifi driver, which was a huge step forward. But since then, development has pretty much stalled. The OpenWRT community has tried to keep things going, but without access to the full source code or support from NXP (as the successor to Marvell’s wireless division), it’s been an uphill battle.

The Problems We’re Facing

• WiFi instability: Random disconnections, the 5GHz band disappearing, and other quirks make using these routers a headache.

• Security vulnerabilities: The stock firmware has known issues, and without updated drivers, these routers are sitting ducks for exploits.

• Wasted potential: The hardware is still solid, but the lack of driver support is forcing people to replace these routers prematurely.

Why This Matters

1. Environmental Impact: Throwing away perfectly good hardware because of software issues is just wasteful. Supporting open-source drivers could keep these routers out of landfills for years.

2. User Trust: Many of us bought the WRT1900ACS because it was marketed as “open-source ready.” It’s disappointing to see that promise unfulfilled.

3. Community Goodwill: By helping out the OpenWRT community, NXP could build a lot of goodwill and show that it’s committed to innovation and sustainability.

What We’re Hoping For

It would mean the world to us if NXP could:

1. Release the full source code for the mwlwifi driver, including any proprietary bits, so the community can fix the issues and keep these routers alive.

2. Provide documentation for the 88W8964 chipset to help developers better understand and optimize the hardware.

3. Engage with the community—even just a little!—to help us figure out how to resolve the most critical issues.

The Bigger Picture

The WRT1900ACS and similar routers are still widely used by enthusiasts, small businesses, and regular folks. By supporting open-source development, NXP could ensure these devices stay relevant and secure, while also setting a positive example for the industry.

I know there might be legal or business hurdles, but I truly believe the benefits outweigh the costs. The OpenWRT community is ready to collaborate, and we’d love to see NXP step up and make a difference.

What do you all think? Has anyone else experienced these issues? Let’s discuss and see if we can get NXP’s attention on this!

Cheers,

[weidong_sun]

Dear @TheKillerBee ,

WRT1900ACS is a router designed by Linksys,  we don't have resource to support it.

so the better choice to contact Linksys.

Thanks!

Regards,

weidong

[TheKillerBee]

Hi @weidong,

Thank you for your response. I understand that the WRT1900ACS is a router designed by Linksys, and I appreciate that NXP may not have direct responsibility for the device itself. However, the core issue lies with the mwlwifi driver, which is tied to the Marvell 88W8964 chipset—a product now under NXP’s purview following the acquisition of Marvell’s wireless division.

While Linksys is responsible for the router’s hardware and firmware integration, the driver’s development and support ultimately depend on NXP’s willingness to engage with the community. The OpenWRT community has made significant efforts to improve the driver, but without access to the full source code or documentation, we are limited in what we can achieve.

Why NXP’s Support is Critical

1. Driver Ownership: The mwlwifi driver is specific to Marvell/NXP chipsets, and its development is inherently tied to your expertise and resources.

2. Community Impact: The WRT1900ACS and similar devices are still widely used, and their premature obsolescence due to driver issues reflects poorly on the ecosystem surrounding NXP’s hardware.

3. Sustainability: Supporting open-source drivers would extend the lifespan of these devices, reducing e-waste and aligning with global sustainability goals

We are not asking NXP to take responsibility for the WRT1900ACS as a product. Instead, we are asking for:

1. Release of the full driver source code, including any proprietary components, to enable the community to address existing issues.

2. Documentation for the 88W8964 chipset to help developers better understand and optimize the hardware.

3. Minimal engagement with the OpenWRT community to guide efforts in resolving critical driver issues.

These steps would not only benefit the community but also enhance NXP’s reputation as a company that values innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.

I hope you can reconsider and provide the support we need to keep these devices alive. Thank you for your time and understanding.

Best regards,
TheKilllerBee
OpenWRT Community Member