OpenWrt

OpenWrt is an impressive Linux distribution that is specifically designed for embedded devices. It is excellent for developers as it provides a fully writable filesystem with package management, allowing customization of the device through the use of packages that suit any application. With OpenWrt, users don't have to rely on pre-selected applications and configurations provided by the vendor.

This distribution frees the user from the limitations of vendor configurations and harnesses full customization, allowing users to deploy their devices in ways they never thought were possible. The framework for building applications on OpenWrt is exceptional as it doesn't require building complete firmware around the application.

OpenWrt supports an extensive list of devices from manufacturers such as Western Digital, Netgear, Linksys, and Motorola. It includes support for over seventy manufacturers for devices that can utilize this framework to run more efficiently.

The latest release of OpenWrt has several new features that enhance its capabilities. Some of the new features include; Fix a crash at boot time on Atheros-2.6, UCI updates, PPP fixes, Firewall fixes, Config enhancements, Timing fixes, and several other bug fixes for specific systems, such as QoS, IMQ errors, and BCM947xx flash access issues.

In summary, OpenWrt is an excellent Linux distribution for developers that aim to build custom applications, and for users who seek powerful, flexible, and customizable software for their embedded devices.