Table of Contents
Tools Checklist
Router unbricking requires some common tools. This page lists required and optional tools.
If your recovery flow uses a Mac + TFTP Server, download Router Recovery for Mac first, then prepare the Ethernet cable, firmware file, and static IP.
Required Tools
1. Screwdriver Set
| Item | Description |
| Phillips screwdriver | Remove router casing |
| T6/T8 screwdriver | Remove motherboard screws (some use special sizes) |
| Pry tool / plastic card | Open clip-type casing |
2. USB-to-TTL Module
| Item | Description |
| CH340G | Best value, recommended |
| PL2303 | Older model, drivers are difficult to install |
| FT232RL | Stable, good quality |
| CP2102 | Compact size |
Note: Choose the 3.3V voltage version
3. Dupont Wires / Jumper Wires
* Quantity: 10 or more * Types: Male-to-female, male-to-male, female-to-female, have some of each * Quality: Choose good quality, poor contact causes trouble
4. Multimeter
* Uses: Measure voltage, identify pins, continuity test * Recommendation: Basic model is sufficient
Network Tools
1. TFTP Server Software
| Software | Platform | Description |
| TFTPD64 | Windows | Most commonly used |
| Router Recovery TFTP Server | macOS | Graphical checks for static IP, firmware file, and TFTP folder |
| Solar-PuTTY | Windows | Includes TFTP functionality |
| atftp | Linux/macOS | Command line |
2. Network Debugging Tools
| Software | Platform | Description |
| Wireshark | Cross-platform | Packet capture and analysis |
| Angry IP Scanner | Cross-platform | Scan LAN IPs |
| Advanced IP Scanner | Windows | Simple and easy to use |
Firmware Tools
1. Firmware Editing Tools
| Software | Description |
| Firmware Modification Kit | Linux command line tool |
| ImageCfg | Windows firmware configuration |
| binwalk | Firmware extraction and analysis |
2. Programmer Software (SPI Flash)
| Software | Description |
| FLASH_Download_Tool | Common programmer software |
| AsProgrammer | Free, supports multiple chips |
| CH341A Programmer | Hardware + software |
Other Tools
| Tool | Use |
| Hot air gun | Soldering/desoldering Flash chips |
| Soldering iron | Soldering pins |
| USB Hub | When USB ports are insufficient |
| Ethernet cable | Direct connection to router |
Tool Kit Recommendations
For beginners, it is recommended to purchase a βRouter Unbricking Tool Kitβ, which typically includes: * USB-to-TTL module (CH340) * Several Dupont wires * Screwdriver set * Common adapters
Prices range from 30-100 CNY.
If you are not sure whether the Mac-side recovery environment is ready, run a TFTP Server recovery check before putting the router into recovery mode.