Rtl8196e Openwrt 〈ULTIMATE〉

– the popular Linux-based embedded OS for routers – does not officially support RTL8196E. The main reason: lack of open-source drivers for the integrated Ethernet switch and wireless MAC/PHY (RTL8192CE / RTL8188RE etc.).

The RTL8196E remains a unsuitable for modern open-source firmware. While Realtek has opened up their switch chips (RTL836x, RTL83xx), the integrated switch in RTL8196E never received the same attention.

1. Introduction The Realtek RTL8196E is a MIPS-based network SoC (System-on-Chip) widely used in low-cost routers, access points, and repeaters. You’ll find it in devices from brands like TP-Link, D-Link, Tenda, Netis, and Comfast.