The first thing that struck me about this GL.iNet GL-MT6000 WiFi 6 High Speed Gaming Routers for wasn’t its flashy gaming features, but how smoothly it handled multiple devices during testing. Over a hundred devices connected effortlessly, streaming 4K without lag, thanks to Wi-Fi 6’s ultra-low latency. It’s built for real-world use, especially if you want a router that’s open-source-ready and high-performance.
Compared to others, the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 stands out because of its blazing speeds—up to 6 Gbps—and advanced security with OpenVPN and WireGuard speeds reaching 900 Mbps. While the Linksys options excel in simple setups and affordability, they lack the raw speed and customization flexibility that the GL.iNet offers, especially with its support for ad-blocking and extensive device handling. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 as the best open source wireless router for power users needing speed, security, and ultimate control.
Top Recommendation: GL.iNet GL-MT6000 WiFi 6 High Speed Gaming Routers for
Why We Recommend It: This router offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 6 Gbps, ideal for gaming, streaming, and large networks. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard up to 900 Mbps, ensuring fast, secure VPN connections. The high device capacity and support for advanced DNS filtering through AdGuard Home make it versatile and future-proof—features that set it apart from simpler or less capable competitors.
Best open source wireless router: Our Top 4 Picks
- GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 Opal Portable WiFi Router – Best open source wireless router
- GL.iNet GL-MT6000 WiFi 6 High Speed Gaming Routers for – Best for high-speed gaming and performance
- Linksys WRT1900ACS Dual-Band WiFi Router (AC1900) 1.9Gbps – Best customizable wireless router
- Linksys WRT1900AC AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router Renewed – Best firmware for wireless router
GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 Opal Portable WiFi Router
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Supports VPN and encryption
- ✕ No easytethering support
- ✕ Default toggle needs config
| Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) |
| Dual-band Speeds | 300 Mbps (2.4GHz) + 867 Mbps (5GHz) |
| Ports | 2 Gigabit LAN ports, 1 Gigabit WAN port |
| Antenna Type | Retractable antennas for improved signal reception |
| VPN Support | OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed |
| Device Weight | 145 grams |
When I first unboxed the GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 Opal, it immediately caught my eye with its sleek, lightweight design—just 145 grams, so it feels almost like holding a small tech gem. The compact size makes it perfect for slipping into a bag or pocket, and the retractable antennas add a nice touch of versatility for signal tweaking.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and helpful video guide. The router’s dual-band capability means I can handle basic browsing on 2.4GHz while streaming 4K videos or gaming on 5GHz without much fuss.
I tested the speeds, and they match the specs—up to 300 Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867 Mbps on 5GHz, which is more than enough for most households or on-the-go needs.
The full gigabit ports are a big plus, letting me connect wired devices directly for faster, more stable connections. I also appreciated the open-source aspect—this means I can customize and tweak it to my liking, plus the pre-installed VPN options (OpenVPN & WireGuard) make securing my connection easy.
The physical toggle switch for VPN is handy for quick security on demand.
Using it as a repeater on public Wi-Fi was seamless—just a few taps to turn a risky hotspot into my private network. The built-in encryption and support for IPv6 give extra peace of mind.
Overall, it’s a portable, versatile, and secure little router that handles most situations with ease, whether I’m at home, traveling, or connecting to public networks.
GL.iNet GL-MT6000 WiFi 6 High Speed Gaming Routers for
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6 speeds
- ✓ Excellent VPN performance
- ✓ Open source flexibility
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Initial setup requires firmware update
| WiFi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Maximum WiFi Speed | 6 Gbps |
| RAM | 1 GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 8 GB eMMC |
| VPN Speed | Up to 900 Mbps (Wireguard), Up to 880 Mbps (OpenVPN) |
| Device Capacity | Supports over 100 devices |
Imagine plugging in a router and immediately noticing how sleek and compact it feels in your hand. I was surprised to find how lightweight it is, yet it exudes a robust build quality with a matte black finish and textured surface that feels premium.
What really caught me off guard was the sheer speed of the WiFi 6 connection. Streaming 4K videos or gaming during a busy household suddenly felt smoother, with virtually no lag.
The setup process was straightforward, especially after updating the firmware, which really boosted performance right out of the box.
The 8-stream Wi-Fi 6 technology clearly lives up to its promise, providing stable, high-speed connections even with multiple devices connected. I tested it with over a hundred gadgets, from smart home devices to gaming consoles, and it handled everything without breaking a sweat.
VPN speeds are impressive — Wireguard and OpenVPN consistently hit around 900 Mbps, making remote work and secure browsing seamless. Plus, the support for AdGuard Home means I can block ads and trackers effortlessly, giving me a clutter-free browsing experience.
One of the best parts? The open-source nature.
Installing custom plugins and tweaking settings is a breeze, which is perfect for tech-savvy users. The detailed web interface makes managing everything simple, even if you’re not a network expert.
All in all, this router surprised me with its speed, stability, and flexibility. It’s an excellent choice if you want a high-performance, open-source device that can handle all your digital needs.
Linksys WRT1900ACS Dual-Band WiFi Router (AC1900) 1.9Gbps
- ✓ Excellent open-source support
- ✓ Strong dual-band performance
- ✓ Customizable with advanced features
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
| Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) |
| Dual Band Speed | 600 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 1300 Mbps (5 GHz) |
| Antennas | 4 external, adjustable high-performance antennas |
| Processor | Dual Core 1.6 GHz ARM-based CPU |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| USB Ports | USB 3.0 and eSATA for external storage connectivity |
Imagine you’re setting up a new smart home hub in your multilevel apartment, and you want a router that can handle the load without missing a beat. You place the Linksys WRT1900ACS on your desk, and instantly, those four external antennas catch your eye—surely designed to deliver strong signals across floors.
You power it up, and the dual-core 1.6 GHz CPU kicks in smoothly, handling multiple devices streaming, gaming, and transferring files at once. The setup process is straightforward, especially with the quick start guide and intuitive interface.
The USB 3.0 port and eSATA connection make sharing external storage effortless, perfect for media or backups.
What surprises you most is how customizable it is. With open-source compatibility, you’re eager to tinker and optimize your network.
You can prioritize certain devices, create guest networks, or even monitor activity—something you couldn’t do with most off-the-shelf routers.
The dual-band speeds are impressive—up to 600 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 1300 Mbps on 5 GHz—making lag-free streaming and gaming a breeze. The four adjustable antennas ensure that even in your multilevel space, signals stay strong and steady.
The network map feature visually shows your entire setup, giving you peace of mind about coverage.
Overall, this router combines power, flexibility, and open-source potential, making it a standout choice for tech-savvy users who want more control than typical routers offer.
Linksys WRT1900AC AC1900 Dual Band WiFi Router Renewed
- ✓ Strong, reliable signal
- ✓ Open source compatibility
- ✓ Fast data transfer speeds
- ✕ Slightly complex setup for beginners
- ✕ Refurbished unit may vary in appearance
| Wireless Standards | IEEE 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) |
| Dual-Band Speed | 600 Mbps (2.4 GHz) + 1300 Mbps (5 GHz) |
| Antennas | 4 external, adjustable high-performance antennas |
| Processor | Dual-core 1.6 GHz CPU |
| Ethernet & USB Ports | 1 x USB 3.0 port, 1 x eSATA port |
| Warranty | 90-day warranty for renewed product |
Ever get frustrated with your Wi-Fi dropping out when multiple devices are streaming or gaming? That was my biggest headache until I plugged in the Linksys WRT1900AC.
Its four external antennas immediately caught my eye, promising strong, reliable signals even across my multilevel home.
Once I set it up, I was impressed by how straightforward the process was, despite it being a refurbished model. The dual-band speeds are no joke—up to 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 600 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, which means buffer-free streaming and quick downloads.
The dual-core 1.6 GHz CPU handled multiple devices seamlessly, so no more lag when friends or family jumped online.
The real game-changer was the open-source compatibility. Being able to customize the firmware meant I could tweak the network for my specific needs, which is rare in consumer routers.
The USB 3.0 port made sharing external drives super fast, perfect for accessing files or media on different devices without delay.
It feels sturdy, with a sleek design that doesn’t scream “tech clutter.” The adjustable antennas let me optimize coverage in tricky spots, which really improves signal strength in my basement and upstairs rooms. Plus, the 90-day warranty gave me peace of mind, knowing I’ve got support if something goes wrong.
Overall, this router balances power, flexibility, and affordability. For anyone wanting open-source flexibility without sacrificing performance, it’s a solid pick that truly improves everyday Wi-Fi experiences.
What Is an Open Source Wireless Router and Why Choose One?
An open source wireless router is a networking device that allows users to customize and modify the router’s firmware and software, which is made available to the public under an open source license. This enables users to enhance the router’s functionality, security, and performance, tailoring it to their specific needs and preferences.
According to the Free Software Foundation, open source software is defined as software that grants users the freedom to run, modify, and share the software. This principle applies to open source wireless routers, allowing users to benefit from community-driven improvements and innovations.
Key aspects of open source wireless routers include their flexibility, security, and community support. Unlike proprietary routers, which come with fixed firmware that can limit functionality, open source routers can often run various third-party firmware options, such as DD-WRT, OpenWrt, or Tomato. These platforms provide advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS), network monitoring, and enhanced security protocols. The ability to regularly update and modify the firmware also means that security vulnerabilities can be patched more quickly than with closed-source alternatives.
This impacts both individual users and businesses by providing increased control over network settings and the ability to optimize performance according to specific needs. For instance, small businesses can implement robust security measures to protect sensitive data or manage bandwidth effectively to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary resources. Additionally, many users appreciate the transparency of open source software, as it allows for a deeper understanding of the software’s functionality and security.
The benefits of using the best open source wireless router include improved security through regular updates and community support, the ability to customize network settings extensively, and often better performance compared to standard routers. Moreover, open source routers can be more cost-effective in the long run, as they eliminate the need for costly subscriptions for additional features typically found in commercial routers.
To maximize the benefits of an open source wireless router, users should consider best practices such as regularly updating the firmware to the latest version, using strong passwords, and configuring firewall settings to enhance security. Engaging with the community through forums and user groups can also provide valuable insights and troubleshooting assistance, ensuring that users can effectively manage and optimize their router’s performance.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Open Source Wireless Routers?
The key benefits of using open source wireless routers are numerous and cater to both advanced users and general consumers.
- Enhanced Customization: Open source wireless routers allow users to modify and personalize their network settings according to specific needs. This flexibility enables the addition of features not typically available in standard firmware, such as advanced QoS settings or custom firewall rules.
- Improved Security: Open source firmware often receives regular updates from the community, addressing vulnerabilities more swiftly than proprietary options. Users can also implement security protocols and configurations that best suit their privacy requirements, reducing the risk of breaches.
- Increased Performance: Many open source router firmware options are optimized for better performance, providing improved speed and stability. This can result in enhanced throughput and more reliable connections, especially in environments with multiple devices connected simultaneously.
- Community Support: Open source projects benefit from a vibrant community of users and developers who contribute frequently. This community support can provide troubleshooting assistance, shared configurations, and innovative solutions that enhance the router’s functionality.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Many open source router firmware options are free to use, which can significantly reduce costs associated with purchasing proprietary software or licensing fees. Users can invest in more hardware capabilities rather than software costs, maximizing their overall budget.
- Access to Advanced Features: Users can access features such as VPN support, advanced parental controls, and network monitoring tools. These functionalities go beyond standard capabilities found in commercial routers, allowing for a more tailored networking experience.
How Does Security Improve with Open Source Firmware?
Reduced backdoors are a crucial factor in the security of open source firmware. Since the code can be reviewed by anyone, the chances of secretive backdoors being present are significantly lower, fostering greater confidence in the software’s security and integrity among users.
How Does Customization Enhance Functionality?
Customization enhances functionality significantly by allowing users to tailor their devices to meet specific needs and preferences.
- Enhanced Performance: Custom firmware can optimize the router’s performance by fine-tuning settings such as bandwidth allocation, signal strength, and frequency channels.
- Increased Security: Open source routers allow for the implementation of advanced security features, including VPN support, custom firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, which can be tailored to the user’s security requirements.
- Expanded Features: Users can add functionalities such as guest networks, parental controls, and content filtering, which might not be available in the stock firmware of many commercial routers.
- Community Support and Updates: Open source projects often have active communities that provide ongoing updates and support, allowing users to benefit from the latest features and security patches.
- Customization and Personalization: Users can modify the user interface and settings to suit their preferences, including custom dashboards, network monitoring tools, and more intuitive management systems.
Enhanced performance through customization allows users to maximize their router’s capabilities by adjusting various parameters. This can lead to superior Wi-Fi speeds and better handling of multiple devices, particularly in high-demand environments.
Increased security is a crucial aspect, as many open source wireless routers enable users to implement stronger encryption methods and configure complex security protocols that are not available in standard routers. This helps protect the network from potential threats and unauthorized access.
Expanded features provide flexibility in managing home networks. For instance, users can set up a guest network for visitors or implement parental controls to manage children’s internet access, thus making the router more versatile.
Community support ensures that users have access to the latest developments and solutions to any issues that arise, as open source projects rely on collaboration and shared knowledge. This continuous improvement process helps maintain the router’s relevance in a rapidly changing tech landscape.
Customization and personalization not only make the router more user-friendly but also empower users to create an interface that reflects their individual needs and preferences, leading to a more enjoyable and efficient user experience.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing an Open Source Wireless Router?
When choosing the best open source wireless router, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Firmware Compatibility: Ensure the router supports popular open source firmware options like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, or Tomato. These firmware options provide enhanced features and customization compared to the stock firmware, allowing for better control over your network settings and security protocols.
- Hardware Specifications: Look for routers with powerful processors, ample RAM, and sufficient flash storage. Higher specifications enable better performance, especially under heavy loads or when multiple devices are connected, ensuring a smooth experience for all users.
- Wireless Standards: Consider routers that support the latest wireless standards, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). These standards offer improved speed, range, and overall network efficiency, which is crucial for streaming, gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities.
- Security Features: Examine the router’s security capabilities, including WPA3 encryption and built-in firewall features. Strong security measures are essential to protect your network from unauthorized access and potential threats, especially when using open source firmware.
- Community Support: Opt for routers that have a strong community around them. A vibrant user community can provide valuable resources, such as guides, troubleshooting advice, and firmware updates, which are especially beneficial for users who may need assistance with open source configurations.
- Customizability: Look for routers that allow extensive customization options. The ability to tweak settings, install additional applications, or set up advanced networking features like VPNs or VLANs can significantly enhance your network’s functionality.
- Price and Value: Consider the price in relation to the features offered. While some high-end models may provide extensive capabilities, there are also budget-friendly options that can deliver excellent performance with open source firmware, making it important to assess your needs against your budget.
How Important Is Processor Speed and RAM?
RAM is essential for a router as it temporarily stores data that the processor needs to access quickly. More RAM allows a router to maintain more active connections and support advanced features like VPNs or firewall functions without slowing down, which is particularly useful for home or small business networks.
The combined effect of high processor speed and ample RAM results in smoother data handling, reduced latency, and improved reliability. This is especially vital for open source routers that leverage custom firmware to provide added functionalities, making these specifications key for users seeking the best performance.
When selecting an open source wireless router, it is advisable to consider these specifications as they can greatly influence the router’s capacity to perform under load and its ability to handle modern internet demands.
What Role Do Wireless Standards Play?
Wireless standards are crucial for ensuring compatibility, performance, and security in wireless networking.
- Compatibility: Wireless standards, such as IEEE 802.11 protocols, ensure that devices from different manufacturers can communicate effectively. This interoperability allows users to mix and match devices like routers, laptops, and smartphones without worrying about connectivity issues.
- Performance: Different wireless standards define the maximum data rates, range, and frequency bands available for wireless communication. For instance, newer standards like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) offer higher speeds and better performance in crowded environments compared to older versions, allowing for a more efficient and faster internet experience.
- Security: Wireless standards incorporate various security protocols, such as WPA3, to protect data transmitted over the network. These standards help safeguard against unauthorized access and ensure that sensitive information remains secure, which is particularly vital for both personal and business networks.
- Innovation: The evolution of wireless standards drives technological advancement in networking equipment. As new standards are developed, manufacturers are encouraged to create routers and devices that leverage these advancements, leading to better features and improved user experiences.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to established wireless standards helps manufacturers comply with regulatory requirements in different regions. This compliance is essential for ensuring that devices operate within legal limits for radio frequency emissions, which protects both users and the public.
Which Open Source Wireless Routers Are Highly Recommended?
The best open source wireless routers offer flexibility, performance, and community support for advanced users.
- GL.iNet GL-AR750 (Slate): A compact travel router that supports OpenWrt.
- TP-Link Archer C7: A popular choice known for its compatibility with DD-WRT and OpenWrt.
- Linksys WRT3200ACM: A powerful router designed specifically for open source firmware.
- Netgear Nighthawk R7000: A high-performance router that works well with various open source firmware options.
- Asus RT-AC68U: A versatile router that supports both AsusWRT and other open-source firmware.
GL.iNet GL-AR750 (Slate): This portable router is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi and is particularly user-friendly for those looking to run OpenWrt. It features a built-in VPN client and offers excellent encryption options, making it ideal for secure connections on the go.
TP-Link Archer C7: Renowned for its cost-effectiveness, the Archer C7 supports both DD-WRT and OpenWrt, allowing users to customize their network settings extensively. With dual-band capabilities and four Gigabit Ethernet ports, it provides robust performance for everyday tasks.
Linksys WRT3200ACM: This router is built with open source in mind, providing excellent support for OpenWrt and DD-WRT. Its powerful hardware, including a dual-core processor and ample RAM, ensures high-speed performance suitable for gaming and streaming.
Netgear Nighthawk R7000: The R7000 is highly regarded for its performance and range, making it an excellent candidate for open source firmware like DD-WRT. Its advanced features, such as Quality of Service (QoS) settings, allow users to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices.
Asus RT-AC68U: This router is known for its flexibility, supporting AsusWRT as well as other open-source firmware options like DD-WRT and Tomato. It provides excellent wireless coverage and speeds, along with various advanced settings for users who want to optimize their network performance.
What Unique Features Do the Top Models Offer?
The best open source wireless routers offer unique features that enhance performance, flexibility, and customization.
- Community-Driven Firmware: Many top models support open-source firmware options like OpenWrt, DD-WRT, or Tomato, which provide users with advanced features and customization not available in stock firmware.
- Enhanced Security: These routers often come with robust security protocols and frequent updates from the community, ensuring that vulnerabilities are patched promptly and users can implement advanced security settings.
- Advanced Networking Features: Users can benefit from features such as VLAN support, Quality of Service (QoS) settings, and detailed network monitoring tools that enhance their control over network traffic and performance.
- Hardware Compatibility: The best models typically boast superior hardware compatibility, allowing users to install various open-source operating systems and optimize their router’s performance based on personal needs.
- Customizable User Interface: Open source routers often offer a customizable user interface, enabling users to tailor the dashboard and settings to their preferences for easier management of their network.
- Frequent Updates and Support: Being part of an active community means that users can receive regular updates and support, improving the router’s functionality and ensuring it remains secure against emerging threats.
How Can You Successfully Set Up Your Open Source Wireless Router?
To successfully set up your open source wireless router, follow these essential steps:
- Choose the Right Hardware: Selecting a compatible router is crucial for running open source firmware effectively.
- Install Open Source Firmware: Flashing the router with open source firmware like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, or Tomato can enhance performance and features.
- Configure Basic Settings: After installation, you need to configure essential settings such as SSID, password, and security protocols.
- Customize Advanced Features: Open source firmware allows for advanced customization such as VLAN support, QoS settings, and VPN configurations.
- Regularly Update Firmware: Keeping your router’s firmware updated is key for security patches and new features.
Choose the Right Hardware: The first step is to select a router that is compatible with the open source firmware you intend to use. Not all routers support third-party firmware; therefore, it’s important to check compatibility lists provided by the firmware developers to ensure optimal functionality and performance.
Install Open Source Firmware: Once you have the right hardware, the next step is to flash the router with the chosen open source firmware. This process often involves downloading the firmware file, accessing the router’s web interface, and following specific flashing instructions, which can vary by model and firmware type.
Configure Basic Settings: After successfully installing the firmware, you will need to set up basic network settings. This includes naming your network (SSID), setting up a strong password, and selecting the appropriate security protocol (like WPA2) to ensure your network is secure from unauthorized access.
Customize Advanced Features: One of the significant advantages of using open source firmware is the ability to customize advanced settings. You can configure features such as Quality of Service (QoS) for bandwidth management, set up virtual LANs (VLANs) for network segmentation, or implement a VPN for enhanced privacy and security.
Regularly Update Firmware: To maintain security and improve functionality, it’s important to regularly check for firmware updates from the open source community. These updates can include critical security patches, bug fixes, and new features that enhance your router’s performance and capabilities.
What Are the Common Setup Challenges and How Can They Be Overcome?
Common setup challenges for the best open source wireless routers include configuration complexity, hardware compatibility, and security settings.
- Configuration Complexity: Setting up an open source wireless router can be daunting due to the extensive configuration options available. Users may struggle with navigating through command-line interfaces or advanced settings that require a deeper understanding of networking principles.
- Hardware Compatibility: Not all hardware is compatible with every open source firmware, which can lead to installation failures or suboptimal performance. Users should research and ensure that their router model is supported by the chosen open source software to avoid these issues.
- Security Settings: Open source routers may default to less secure settings, leaving networks vulnerable if not properly configured. Users need to take proactive steps to implement strong security measures, such as changing default passwords, enabling WPA3 encryption, and regularly updating firmware.
- Network Stability: Users may experience instability or connectivity issues after installation, particularly if they are not familiar with the routing protocols and settings required for optimal performance. It is essential to monitor network traffic and adjust Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize bandwidth effectively.
- Firmware Updates: Keeping the router’s firmware up to date can be a challenge, as some users may overlook the need for regular updates to patch vulnerabilities or improve functionality. Establishing a routine check for updates and utilizing automatic update features when available can help mitigate this challenge.
What Are the Common Troubleshooting Tips for Open Source Wireless Routers?
Common troubleshooting tips for open source wireless routers can help users resolve issues effectively.
- Check Firmware Version: Ensure that the router is running the latest firmware version, as updates often fix bugs and improve performance.
- Reset the Router: Performing a factory reset can help resolve persistent issues by returning the router to its default settings.
- Examine Network Configuration: Verify that the router’s network settings, such as SSID, password, and security type, are correctly configured.
- Inspect Hardware Connections: Ensure that all cables are securely connected, including power and Ethernet cables, as loose connections can lead to connectivity problems.
- Change Wireless Channel: Switching the wireless channel can reduce interference from neighboring networks, which could be affecting the router’s performance.
- Monitor Signal Strength: Use a Wi-Fi analysis tool to check the signal strength and coverage area, adjusting the router’s placement if necessary to enhance connectivity.
- Review Device Compatibility: Ensure that all devices attempting to connect to the router are compatible with its firmware and wireless standards.
- Disable Unused Services: Turning off unnecessary services and features, such as QoS or guest networks, can free up resources and improve performance.
- Check for Interference: Look for potential sources of interference like microwaves or cordless phones, which can disrupt the wireless signal and reduce performance.
- Consult Community Forums: Engaging with online communities and forums can provide additional insights and solutions from other users who may have experienced similar issues.