Can I use a SBC device as a WIFI relay or router?

neok · 2011-12-31 13:19:37

Hi,

I am having problems with low signal strength from a local WIFI hotspot provider
and I am looking for possible solutions. Since I would also like to setup a small, low
power single-board computer that can be used to download large files by torrent,
I wonder if it is possible to use such a device as a relay for my WIFI connection.

My idea is to position the device in a favorable position outside the house, with a good
antenna and a wifi card, and set it up to run a bit-torrent client and at the same time
act as a wireless router or relay to enable my desktop to connect to the provider.

I would be greatful for any tips and suggestions fo such a device.

My thanks in advance.

mreschke · 2012-01-04 21:55:55

Most SBC will not have a large HD for downloading, unless you save to another machine on your network, though they can have the torrent software running on them. But aside from the downloading, the perfect device is the Netgate: http://store.netgate.com/Desktop-Kits-C82.aspx

It has 2 mini-pci slots you can add a wifi card (http://store.netgate.com/miniPCI-Cards-C26.aspx) and put it in bridge mode, this will grab your existing poor wifi and expand it into your house, or you can always buy a cheap bridge too (linksys...$50...) If you install PFSense on the netgate, it can do all this wifi stuff easily through a web based gui. Very cheep and very powerful SBC firewall/router system. (fyi, find the wifi card you want on netgate, but buy elsewhere, much cheaper).

If you want it outside, the same SBC has many cases: http://store.netgate.com/Outdoor-Enclosures-C125.aspx

Last edited by mreschke (2012-01-04 22:04:44)

Arch Linux

#1 2011-12-31 13:19:37

Can I use a SBC device as a WIFI relay or router?

#2 2012-01-04 21:55:55

Re: Can I use a SBC device as a WIFI relay or router?

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