OpenWRT Dumb AP Setup and Configuration Guide

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Smart home wireless network router device
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To set up an OpenWRT dumb AP, you'll need a device running OpenWRT firmware, such as the TP-Link TL-WR940N. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and configuring your device as a dumb AP.

The first step is to connect to your OpenWRT device using a web interface. This can be done by accessing the device's IP address in a web browser, which is typically 192.168.1.1.

To configure the device as a dumb AP, you'll need to disable the router's DHCP server and set the device to bridge mode. This can be done in the Network tab of the OpenWRT web interface.

By disabling the DHCP server and setting the device to bridge mode, you'll be able to use your OpenWRT device as a simple access point that repeats the signal from your main router.

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What is OpenWRT

OpenWRT is a highly customizable and flexible Linux distribution designed for embedded devices, such as routers and network devices.

Credit: youtube.com, how to setup OpenWRT as Access Point

It's primarily used for creating custom firmware for devices, allowing users to modify and extend the functionality of their devices.

OpenWRT offers a wide range of packages and tools that can be easily installed and configured.

This flexibility makes it a popular choice for developers and enthusiasts who want to squeeze more performance and features out of their devices.

By using OpenWRT, users can customize their devices to meet their specific needs, whether it's for home use or for a business.

Configuring OpenWRT

Configuring OpenWRT is a crucial step in setting up your OpenWRT Dumb AP. To start, you'll need to edit the /etc/config/network file, which is where you'll find the [interface] section.

To access the OpenWRT command line, you can use the ssh connection. According to the instructions, you can generate a key pair using dropbearkey on the OpenWRT device. This will create a private key file named "openwrt" and print the public key to the console.

Credit: youtube.com, Configuring OpenVSwitch on dumb AP running openwrt

The public key string should be added to the /etc/dropbear/authorized_keys file on the main gateway router. This is the device that runs the DHCP server and has a /tmp/dhcp.leases file that you want to copy.

To copy the private key to each access point, you'll need to create a ~/.ssh directory and set the permissions to 700. The private key file should be copied into this directory and named "id_dropbear". Make sure the file has permissions 600.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a key pair and setting up the SSH connection:

1. Generate a key pair using dropbearkey on the OpenWRT device:

* `dropbearkey -t ed25519 -f openwrt`

2. Add the public key string to the /etc/dropbear/authorized_keys file on the main gateway router.

3. Copy the private key to each access point and set the permissions to 600.

By following these steps, you'll be able to establish a secure SSH connection between your devices and access the OpenWRT command line.

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Dumb AP Options

Credit: youtube.com, OpenWRT 21.02 - Guest Network & Extended with Dumb AP/Router

To set up a dumb access point, you can use a second router as your Wi-Fi point.

The first step is to reset the device, in this case, the OpenWrt router. You can configure it standalone, then connect the cable and reboot.

You need to connect the cable LAN to LAN, not WAN to LAN. This is a crucial distinction, as it allows the second router to function as a dumb access point without creating a double NAT situation.

To set up the second router as a dumb access point, you'll want to disable DHCP and the firewall. This will allow the main router's DHCP to handle IP assignments and prevent conflicts.

You can also utilize the second router as an Ethernet switch if your main router doesn't have enough ports. Simply connect the LAN port of the main router to the LAN port of the second router, and you'll have additional Ethernet ports available.

The WAN interface on the second router becomes irrelevant when set up as a dumb access point, so you can disable it and remove any unnecessary settings.

See what others are reading: Openwrt Access Point

Dumb Access Point

Credit: youtube.com, CHEAP WI-FI MESH ALTERNATIVE with fast roaming OpenWrt Wi-Fi Access points

A Dumb Access Point (DAP) is a router that acts as a bridge between your main router and your devices, providing Wi-Fi connectivity without routing or DHCP capabilities.

To set up a DAP, you'll need to disconnect it from your network and connect your computer to it with an Ethernet cable. Then, use the web interface to configure the LAN interface to have an IP address next to your main router's IP.

You'll also need to disable DHCP server, IPv6 settings, and physical settings that don't apply to a DAP. This includes disabling the firewall, dnsmasq, and odhcpd in the startup scripts.

Here's a list of steps to follow:

  1. Disconnect the DAP from your network and connect your computer to it with an Ethernet cable.
  2. Configure the LAN interface to have an IP address next to your main router's IP.
  3. Disable DHCP server, IPv6 settings, and physical settings that don't apply to a DAP.
  4. Disable the firewall, dnsmasq, and odhcpd in the startup scripts.
  5. Connect one of the LAN ports on your main router to one of the LAN/switch ports of your DAP.

Note that you don't need to connect the WAN port of the DAP, and you should uncheck 'bring up on boot' for the WAN and WAN6 interfaces.

Lee Mohr

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Lee Mohr is a skilled writer with a passion for technology and innovation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for explaining complex concepts, Lee has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Their writing often focuses on Azure Virtual Machine Management, helping readers navigate the intricacies of cloud computing and virtualization.

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