diff --git a/GL-AR150-GUIDE.md b/GL-AR150-GUIDE.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4b558d5 --- /dev/null +++ b/GL-AR150-GUIDE.md @@ -0,0 +1,900 @@ +# GL-AR150 Travel Router - Comprehensive Guide + +## Table of Contents +- [Introduction](#introduction) +- [Hardware Overview](#hardware-overview) +- [Getting Started](#getting-started) +- [Network Modes](#network-modes) +- [Advanced Features](#advanced-features) +- [VPN Configuration](#vpn-configuration) +- [Security Best Practices](#security-best-practices) +- [Troubleshooting](#troubleshooting) +- [Technical Specifications](#technical-specifications) + +--- + +## Introduction + +The GL-AR150 is a compact, portable travel router manufactured by GL.iNet. It's designed for travelers, remote workers, and anyone who needs a secure, reliable network connection on the go. This guide provides comprehensive information on setting up, configuring, and getting the most out of your GL-AR150 router. + +### Key Features +- **Ultra-portable design**: Pocket-sized (58mm x 58mm x 25mm) and lightweight (39g) +- **Multiple network modes**: Router, Access Point, Repeater, and WDS Bridge +- **OpenWrt-based firmware**: Powerful, open-source operating system with extensive customization options +- **VPN support**: Built-in OpenVPN and WireGuard client support +- **Ethernet and WiFi connectivity**: 2x Ethernet ports (1 WAN, 1 LAN) + WiFi +- **External storage support**: USB port for external storage or 3G/4G modems +- **Low power consumption**: Can be powered via USB (5V/1A) + +--- + +## Hardware Overview + +### Physical Components + +#### Ports and Interfaces +- **WAN Port**: Blue Ethernet port for internet connection +- **LAN Port**: Black Ethernet port for wired devices +- **USB 2.0 Port**: For external storage, 3G/4G modems, or other USB devices +- **Micro USB Power Port**: 5V/1A power input +- **Reset Button**: Located on the bottom (hold 3 seconds for reset, 10 seconds for factory reset) + +#### LED Indicators +- **Power LED (Green)**: Router is powered on +- **WiFi LED (Green)**: Wireless network is active +- **WAN LED (Green)**: WAN connection is established +- **LAN LED (Green)**: Device connected to LAN port + +### What's in the Box +- GL-AR150 router +- USB power cable +- Ethernet cable +- Quick start guide +- Warranty card + +### Hardware Specifications +- **CPU**: Atheros AR9331, 400MHz +- **RAM**: 64MB DDR2 +- **Flash**: 16MB NOR Flash +- **WiFi**: 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n, up to 150Mbps +- **Ethernet**: 2x 10/100Mbps ports +- **Antenna**: 1x internal PCB antenna +- **Power**: 5V/1A via Micro USB +- **Dimensions**: 58 x 58 x 25 mm +- **Weight**: 39g + +--- + +## Getting Started + +### Initial Setup + +#### Step 1: Power On the Router +1. Connect the Micro USB cable to the router and plug it into a USB power adapter (5V/1A minimum) or computer USB port +2. Wait for the Power LED to light up (approximately 20-30 seconds for complete boot) +3. The WiFi LED should illuminate when the wireless network is ready + +#### Step 2: Connect to the Router +**Method 1: WiFi Connection (Recommended for First Setup)** +1. On your computer or mobile device, search for available WiFi networks +2. Look for a network named `GL-AR150-XXX` (where XXX is the last three characters of the MAC address) +3. Default password: `goodlife` (printed on the router label) + +**Method 2: Wired Connection** +1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your computer to the LAN port (black port) on the router +2. Your computer should automatically obtain an IP address + +#### Step 3: Access the Admin Panel +1. Open a web browser +2. Navigate to `http://192.168.8.1` or `http://router.gl` +3. You'll see the router's login page + +#### Step 4: Initial Configuration +1. **Set Administrator Password** + - On first login, you'll be prompted to set a new admin password + - Choose a strong password (minimum 8 characters recommended) + - Confirm the password and click "Submit" + +2. **Set WiFi Password** + - You'll be prompted to change the default WiFi password + - Enter a new, secure password for your wireless network + - Click "Apply" to save + +3. **Connect to Internet** + - Choose your internet connection method (see next section) + +### Connecting to the Internet + +#### Option 1: Cable/Ethernet Connection +1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your modem/main router to the WAN port (blue port) +2. The router should automatically detect the connection +3. WAN LED will light up when connected + +#### Option 2: WiFi Repeater Mode +1. Go to "Internet" in the admin panel +2. Click on "Repeater" tab +3. Click "Scan" to see available WiFi networks +4. Select your home/hotel WiFi network +5. Enter the WiFi password +6. Click "Join" +7. Wait for connection (15-30 seconds) + +#### Option 3: 3G/4G USB Modem (Tethering) +1. Insert a compatible 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port +2. Go to "Internet" → "3G/4G Modem" in the admin panel +3. Select your modem from the list +4. Configure APN settings (if required by your carrier) +5. Click "Connect" + +--- + +## Network Modes + +The GL-AR150 supports multiple network modes to suit different use cases. + +### 1. Router Mode (Default) + +**Best for**: Most common use case - creating a private network + +**Description**: The GL-AR150 acts as a standard router, creating a local network and providing NAT (Network Address Translation) for connected devices. + +**Setup**: +1. Connect WAN port to internet source (modem, main router, or ethernet) +2. Connect devices via WiFi or LAN port +3. All devices get IP addresses in the 192.168.8.x range + +**Use Cases**: +- Home/office networking +- Hotel room shared internet +- Creating isolated network for IoT devices + +### 2. Access Point (AP) Mode + +**Best for**: Extending wired network with WiFi + +**Description**: Converts a wired network connection into a WiFi hotspot. No NAT/firewall, just bridges wired to wireless. + +**Setup**: +1. Go to "Internet" → "Internet Settings" +2. Select "Access Point" mode +3. Connect WAN port to your main network +4. The router will get an IP from your main network + +**Use Cases**: +- Adding WiFi to a wired-only network +- Creating additional WiFi coverage in AP mode + +### 3. Repeater/Extender Mode + +**Best for**: Extending WiFi range + +**Description**: Connects to an existing WiFi network and rebroadcasts it, extending the coverage area. + +**Setup**: +1. Go to "Internet" → "Repeater" +2. Click "Scan" for available networks +3. Select target network and enter password +4. Your GL-AR150 WiFi will broadcast with the same SSID or a new one + +**Use Cases**: +- Extending WiFi coverage in large homes +- Hotel rooms with weak WiFi signal +- Creating a secure tunnel over public WiFi + +### 4. WDS Bridge Mode + +**Best for**: Connecting two networks wirelessly + +**Description**: Wireless bridge connecting two separate networks. Both routers must support WDS. + +**Setup**: +1. Requires two WDS-compatible routers +2. Go to "Internet" → "Repeater" → "Advanced Settings" +3. Enable WDS mode +4. Enter MAC address of the other router +5. Configure matching wireless settings + +**Use Cases**: +- Connecting buildings without running cables +- Point-to-point wireless links + +--- + +## Advanced Features + +### USB Storage and File Sharing + +The GL-AR150 can function as a basic NAS (Network Attached Storage) device. + +#### Setting Up USB Storage +1. Format a USB drive as FAT32, exFAT, or ext4 +2. Insert the USB drive into the USB port +3. Go to "Applications" → "File Sharing" +4. Enable "File Sharing Service" +5. Configure access permissions (read-only or read-write) +6. Access files via: + - **Windows**: `\\192.168.8.1\` in File Explorer + - **Mac**: `smb://192.168.8.1` in Finder + - **Linux**: `smb://192.168.8.1` + +#### Supported Filesystems +- FAT32 (up to 4GB files) +- exFAT (large files supported) +- ext4 (Linux filesystem, recommended) +- NTFS (read-only by default) + +### AdBlock Plus + +Block advertisements network-wide for all connected devices. + +#### Enabling AdBlock +1. Go to "Applications" → "Adblock" +2. Enable "Enable AdBlock" +3. Select subscription sources (recommended: AdGuard DNS Filter) +4. Click "Update" to download blocklists +5. Click "Start" to activate + +**Note**: AdBlock works by filtering DNS requests, so it won't block all ads (like YouTube video ads) but will block most banner and tracking ads. + +### Dynamic DNS (DDNS) + +Access your router remotely with a memorable domain name, even if your ISP changes your IP address. + +#### Setting Up DDNS +1. Create an account with a DDNS provider (e.g., No-IP, DynDNS, DuckDNS) +2. Go to "Applications" → "DDNS" +3. Select your DDNS provider +4. Enter your credentials and domain name +5. Click "Apply" + +**Supported Providers**: +- No-IP +- DynDNS +- DuckDNS +- Google Domains +- Cloudflare +- And more + +### Port Forwarding + +Forward external traffic to specific devices on your local network. + +#### Creating Port Forward Rules +1. Go to "Firewall" → "Port Forwarding" +2. Click "Add New Rule" +3. Configure: + - **Name**: Descriptive name for the rule + - **Protocol**: TCP, UDP, or Both + - **External Port**: Port from internet + - **Internal IP**: Local device IP + - **Internal Port**: Destination port on device +4. Click "Add" + +**Common Port Forwarding Examples**: +- Web Server: External 80 → Internal 192.168.8.100:80 +- SSH Server: External 22 → Internal 192.168.8.101:22 +- Game Server: External 25565 → Internal 192.168.8.102:25565 + +### Custom DNS + +Use custom DNS servers for improved privacy, speed, or content filtering. + +#### Configuring DNS +1. Go to "Network" → "DNS" +2. Enable "Manual DNS Server Settings" +3. Enter preferred DNS servers: + - **Cloudflare**: 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1 + - **Google**: 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4 + - **Quad9**: 9.9.9.9, 149.112.112.112 + - **OpenDNS**: 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220 +4. Click "Apply" + +### MAC Address Cloning + +Clone your computer's MAC address to the router (useful for bypassing MAC filtering). + +#### Cloning MAC Address +1. Go to "Network" → "MAC Clone" +2. Enter the MAC address to clone or click "Clone from Current Device" +3. Click "Apply" +4. Router will reboot with new MAC address + +### QoS (Quality of Service) + +Prioritize bandwidth for specific applications or devices. + +#### Enabling QoS +1. Go to "Network" → "QoS" +2. Enable QoS +3. Set total upload/download bandwidth limits +4. Add rules to prioritize: + - By device (IP/MAC address) + - By port (application) + - By protocol +5. Click "Apply" + +--- + +## VPN Configuration + +The GL-AR150 supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard VPN protocols, allowing you to secure your internet connection and access remote networks. + +### OpenVPN Client + +#### Setting Up OpenVPN +1. Obtain OpenVPN configuration files (.ovpn) from your VPN provider +2. Go to "VPN" → "OpenVPN Client" +3. Click "Upload Configuration File" +4. Select your .ovpn file +5. Enter credentials if required: + - Username/password for password authentication + - Or use certificate-based authentication (already in .ovpn file) +6. Click "Apply" +7. Toggle "Enable" to connect + +#### OpenVPN Settings +- **Auto-Start**: Automatically connect on router boot +- **Kill Switch**: Block internet if VPN disconnects +- **DNS Leak Protection**: Force all DNS through VPN tunnel + +#### Supported VPN Providers +Most major VPN providers are compatible: +- ExpressVPN +- NordVPN +- ProtonVPN +- Surfshark +- Private Internet Access +- Mullvad +- And many more (any OpenVPN-compatible provider) + +### WireGuard VPN + +WireGuard is a modern, fast VPN protocol with better performance than OpenVPN. + +#### Setting Up WireGuard +1. Obtain WireGuard configuration from your VPN provider or server +2. Go to "VPN" → "WireGuard Client" +3. Click "Add Configuration" +4. Paste your WireGuard configuration: + ``` + [Interface] + PrivateKey = YOUR_PRIVATE_KEY + Address = 10.0.0.2/24 + DNS = 1.1.1.1 + + [Peer] + PublicKey = SERVER_PUBLIC_KEY + Endpoint = vpn.example.com:51820 + AllowedIPs = 0.0.0.0/0 + ``` +5. Click "Add" +6. Toggle "Enable" to connect + +#### WireGuard Advantages +- **Faster**: Lower overhead than OpenVPN +- **More Secure**: Modern cryptography +- **Better Battery Life**: Efficient on mobile devices +- **Simpler**: Easier to configure + +### VPN Policies (Split Tunneling) + +Route only specific traffic through the VPN while allowing other traffic direct internet access. + +#### Configuring VPN Policies +1. Go to "VPN" → "VPN Policies" +2. Select policy mode: + - **Global Mode**: All traffic through VPN (default) + - **Based on Target Domain**: Route specific domains through VPN + - **Based on Source Device**: Route specific devices through VPN +3. Add rules: + - For domain-based: Enter domains (e.g., netflix.com) + - For device-based: Enter IP or MAC addresses +4. Select "Use VPN" or "Don't Use VPN" for each rule +5. Click "Apply" + +**Use Cases**: +- Route banking websites through VPN, streaming directly +- Route work devices through VPN, IoT devices directly +- Bypass VPN for local services + +--- + +## Security Best Practices + +### Initial Security Hardening + +#### 1. Change Default Credentials +- **Admin Password**: Change immediately on first login +- **WiFi Password**: Use WPA2/WPA3 with strong password (16+ characters) +- Never use default passwords in production + +#### 2. Update Firmware Regularly +1. Go to "System" → "Upgrade" +2. Check for updates +3. Download and install latest firmware +4. Router will reboot automatically + +**Why Update?** +- Security patches +- Bug fixes +- New features +- Performance improvements + +#### 3. Disable Unnecessary Services +1. Go to "Applications" +2. Disable services you don't use: + - File Sharing (if not needed) + - SSH (if not accessing remotely) + - Telnet (insecure, use SSH instead) + +#### 4. Enable Firewall +The firewall is enabled by default, but verify: +1. Go to "Firewall" → "Basic Settings" +2. Ensure firewall is enabled +3. Review and configure rules as needed + +### WiFi Security + +#### Recommended WiFi Settings +1. Go to "Wireless" → "Security" +2. Configure: + - **Encryption**: WPA2-PSK or WPA3-SAE (if supported by devices) + - **Password**: 16+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols + - **SSID**: Change from default (avoid personal information) + - **Hide SSID**: Optional, but adds a layer of obscurity + +#### Guest Network +1. Go to "Wireless" → "Guest Network" +2. Enable guest network +3. Set separate SSID and password +4. Enable "Isolate Guest Network" (prevents guests from accessing your main network) + +**Benefits**: +- Keep your main network secure +- Share WiFi without exposing your devices +- Easy to change password for temporary guests + +### Remote Access Security + +#### SSH Access +If you need remote access: +1. Go to "System" → "Advanced Settings" → "LAN IP" +2. Enable SSH +3. Change default SSH port (22) to non-standard port (e.g., 2222) +4. Use SSH keys instead of passwords (more secure) +5. Disable password authentication in SSH config + +#### Web Panel Remote Access +**NOT RECOMMENDED for public internet** + +If absolutely necessary: +1. Use a strong admin password +2. Consider VPN access instead +3. Use HTTPS only +4. Limit access by IP whitelist if possible + +### VPN for Public WiFi + +**Always use VPN when connecting through:** +- Hotel WiFi +- Airport WiFi +- Coffee shop WiFi +- Any public/untrusted network + +**Setup**: +1. Configure OpenVPN or WireGuard (see VPN Configuration section) +2. Enable "Auto-Start" and "Kill Switch" +3. Connect to public WiFi via Repeater mode +4. VPN automatically protects all your devices + +### Network Segmentation + +**Isolate IoT devices from main network:** +1. Create guest network for IoT devices +2. Or use VLANs (advanced, requires OpenWrt knowledge) +3. Prevents compromised IoT devices from accessing sensitive data + +### Regular Security Audits + +#### Monthly Checklist +- [ ] Review connected devices (remove unknown devices) +- [ ] Check firmware for updates +- [ ] Review firewall logs for suspicious activity +- [ ] Verify VPN is working correctly +- [ ] Change WiFi password if shared with former guests +- [ ] Review and update port forwarding rules + +--- + +## Troubleshooting + +### Common Issues and Solutions + +#### Cannot Access Admin Panel + +**Symptoms**: Browser can't connect to 192.168.8.1 or router.gl + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check Connection** + - Verify you're connected to GL-AR150 WiFi or LAN + - WiFi: Look for `GL-AR150-XXX` network + - LAN: Check cable connection, link light on + +2. **Check IP Address** + - Open command prompt/terminal + - Windows: `ipconfig` + - Mac/Linux: `ifconfig` or `ip addr` + - Verify IP is in 192.168.8.x range + - Gateway should be 192.168.8.1 + +3. **Clear Browser Cache** + - Try incognito/private browsing mode + - Try different browser + - Clear browser cache and cookies + +4. **Reset Router** + - Hold reset button for 3 seconds (soft reset) + - If still not working, hold 10 seconds (factory reset) + - Default password: `goodlife` + +#### No Internet Connection + +**Symptoms**: Connected to router but no internet access + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check WAN Connection** + - Verify WAN cable is connected to blue port + - Check WAN LED is lit + - Try different Ethernet cable + +2. **Check Internet Settings** + - Go to "Internet" → "Internet Settings" + - Verify correct connection mode selected + - DHCP should work for most cases + - Static IP requires manual configuration + +3. **Restart Modem/Main Router** + - Unplug modem/main router + - Wait 30 seconds + - Plug back in + - Wait for full boot (1-2 minutes) + - Check WAN connection again + +4. **Clone MAC Address** + - Some ISPs bind internet to specific MAC address + - Go to "Network" → "MAC Clone" + - Clone from your computer's MAC address + +#### Slow WiFi Speeds + +**Symptoms**: Slower than expected WiFi performance + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check WiFi Interference** + - Use WiFi analyzer app to check channel congestion + - Change WiFi channel: "Wireless" → "Channel" + - Try channels 1, 6, or 11 (least overlap) + +2. **Check Device Distance** + - GL-AR150 has internal antenna (limited range) + - Move closer to router + - Remove physical obstacles (walls, metal objects) + +3. **Check Connected Devices** + - Go to "Clients" to see connected devices + - Disconnect unused devices + - Consider QoS to prioritize important traffic + +4. **Hardware Limitations** + - GL-AR150 maxes out at 150Mbps on 2.4GHz + - This is normal for single-band N router + - For faster speeds, consider GL-AR300M or GL-MT300N-V2 + +#### VPN Not Connecting + +**Symptoms**: VPN status shows disconnected or error + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check VPN Configuration** + - Verify .ovpn file is correct + - Check credentials (username/password) + - Ensure server address is correct + +2. **Check Internet Connection** + - VPN requires working internet + - Verify internet works without VPN + - Ping VPN server: `ping vpn.example.com` + +3. **Check VPN Logs** + - Go to "VPN" → "OpenVPN Client" → "View Logs" + - Look for error messages + - Common issues: + - Authentication failed: Wrong credentials + - Connection timeout: Firewall blocking VPN + - Certificate error: Certificate expired or invalid + +4. **Try Different VPN Server** + - Some servers may be down or overloaded + - Try different server from your VPN provider + - Try different VPN protocol (OpenVPN vs WireGuard) + +#### Router Keeps Rebooting + +**Symptoms**: Router randomly restarts or power cycles + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check Power Supply** + - Use quality USB power adapter (5V/1A minimum) + - Avoid computer USB ports (insufficient power) + - Try different power adapter + - Check USB cable for damage + +2. **Check Temperature** + - Ensure adequate ventilation + - Don't cover router with objects + - Place in cool, well-ventilated area + +3. **Firmware Issue** + - Update to latest firmware + - If started after firmware update, downgrade to previous version + +4. **Hardware Failure** + - If none of above work, may be hardware issue + - Contact GL.iNet support for warranty replacement + +#### Cannot Connect to USB Storage + +**Symptoms**: USB drive not recognized or accessible + +**Solutions**: +1. **Check USB Drive** + - Verify drive works on computer + - Try different USB drive + - Ensure drive is formatted correctly (FAT32, exFAT, ext4) + +2. **Check File Sharing Settings** + - Go to "Applications" → "File Sharing" + - Enable "File Sharing Service" + - Wait 30 seconds for service to start + +3. **Check Permissions** + - Ensure "Allow write" is enabled if needed + - Check guest access settings + +4. **Remount Drive** + - Unplug USB drive + - Wait 5 seconds + - Plug back in + - Check "Applications" → "File Sharing" → "USB Storage" + +#### Forgotten Admin Password + +**Solutions**: +1. **Factory Reset Required** + - Hold reset button for 10 seconds + - Router will reset to factory defaults + - Default password: `goodlife` + - You'll need to reconfigure all settings + +2. **Prevention** + - Write down password in secure location + - Use password manager + - Consider setting up SSH key-based access as backup + +### Reset Procedures + +#### Soft Reset (Reboot) +1. Admin panel: "System" → "Reboot" +2. Or unplug power, wait 10 seconds, plug back in +3. Settings are preserved + +#### Hard Reset (Factory Reset) +1. Hold reset button for 10 seconds while powered on +2. All LEDs will blink +3. Release button +4. Router will reboot with factory defaults +5. **All settings will be lost** + +#### Recovery Mode (Unbrick) +If router is bricked and won't boot: +1. Hold reset button +2. Plug in power while holding reset +3. Hold for 5-10 seconds until LED blinks rapidly +4. Release button +5. Connect via Ethernet to 192.168.1.1 +6. Upload firmware manually +7. See GL.iNet documentation for detailed recovery procedures + +--- + +## Technical Specifications + +### Hardware Specifications + +| Component | Specification | +|-----------|---------------| +| **CPU** | Atheros AR9331 @400MHz | +| **Memory** | 64MB DDR2 | +| **Storage** | 16MB NOR Flash | +| **WiFi** | 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n, 150Mbps max | +| **Ethernet** | 2x 10/100Mbps (1 WAN, 1 LAN) | +| **USB** | 1x USB 2.0 Type-A | +| **Power** | 5V/1A via Micro USB | +| **Antenna** | 1x internal PCB antenna | +| **Dimensions** | 58 x 58 x 25 mm | +| **Weight** | 39g | +| **Operating Temp** | 0°C to 40°C | +| **Storage Temp** | -20°C to 70°C | +| **Humidity** | 10% to 90% non-condensing | + +### Wireless Specifications + +| Parameter | Value | +|-----------|-------| +| **Standards** | IEEE 802.11b/g/n | +| **Frequency** | 2.412-2.472 GHz (CH1-CH13) | +| **Max TX Power** | 20 dBm (100mW) | +| **Receiver Sensitivity** | -96dBm @11Mbps | +| **Modulation** | DSSS, CCK, OFDM, MIMO | +| **Security** | WEP, WPA, WPA2-PSK, WPA3-SAE | +| **Max Clients** | 40+ (realistically 10-15 for good performance) | + +### Software Specifications + +| Component | Details | +|-----------|---------| +| **Operating System** | OpenWrt 19.07+ based | +| **Web Interface** | GL.iNet custom UI | +| **VPN Protocols** | OpenVPN, WireGuard | +| **VPN Speed** | 4-6 Mbps (OpenVPN), 10-15 Mbps (WireGuard) | +| **Firewall** | iptables-based | +| **DNS** | DNSMasq | +| **File Protocols** | SMB/CIFS, FTP, WebDAV | +| **Package Manager** | opkg (OpenWrt packages) | + +### Supported USB Devices + +#### 3G/4G Modems (Partial List) +- Huawei E3276, E3372, E8372 +- ZTE MF823, MF831 +- Sierra Wireless modems +- Check GL.iNet compatibility list for complete list + +#### USB Storage +- USB 2.0/3.0 flash drives +- USB hard drives (with external power recommended) +- Maximum tested: 2TB (FAT32: 2TB, exFAT: 128TB theoretical, ext4: 1EB theoretical) + +### Performance Metrics + +| Metric | Performance | +|--------|-------------| +| **WiFi Throughput** | 15-25 Mbps (real world) | +| **Ethernet Throughput** | 95 Mbps | +| **VPN Throughput (OpenVPN)** | 4-6 Mbps | +| **VPN Throughput (WireGuard)** | 10-15 Mbps | +| **NAT Throughput** | 50-70 Mbps | +| **Max Concurrent Sessions** | 300+ | +| **Boot Time** | 20-30 seconds | +| **WiFi Range** | 10-15m indoors, 30-50m outdoors (open space) | + +### Power Consumption + +| Mode | Power Draw | +|------|------------| +| **Idle** | 0.5-1W | +| **WiFi Active** | 1.5-2W | +| **Full Load** | 2-2.5W | +| **USB Device Charging** | +0.5-1W per device | + +### Certifications + +- **FCC**: Compliance certified +- **CE**: European compliance +- **RoHS**: Lead-free and environment-friendly + +--- + +## Appendix + +### Useful Resources + +#### Official Resources +- **GL.iNet Website**: https://www.gl-inet.com +- **GL-AR150 Product Page**: https://www.gl-inet.com/products/gl-ar150/ +- **Official Documentation**: https://docs.gl-inet.com/en/3/ +- **Firmware Downloads**: https://dl.gl-inet.com/firmware/ar150/ +- **Community Forum**: https://forum.gl-inet.com + +#### OpenWrt Resources +- **OpenWrt Wiki**: https://openwrt.org/toh/gl.inet/gl-ar150 +- **OpenWrt Packages**: https://openwrt.org/packages/ +- **OpenWrt Forums**: https://forum.openwrt.org + +#### VPN Provider Configuration Guides +- **ExpressVPN**: https://www.expressvpn.com/support/vpn-setup/manual-config-for-linux-with-openvpn/ +- **NordVPN**: https://support.nordvpn.com/Connectivity/Router/1047409322/OpenVPN-connection-on-OpenWrt-router.htm +- **ProtonVPN**: https://protonvpn.com/support/openwrt-router-configuration/ + +### Glossary + +- **DHCP**: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol - automatically assigns IP addresses +- **DNS**: Domain Name System - translates domain names to IP addresses +- **Firmware**: Software that runs on the router hardware +- **NAT**: Network Address Translation - allows multiple devices to share one public IP +- **OpenWrt**: Open-source Linux-based router operating system +- **SSID**: Service Set Identifier - the name of a WiFi network +- **VPN**: Virtual Private Network - encrypted tunnel for secure internet access +- **WAN**: Wide Area Network - the internet connection port +- **LAN**: Local Area Network - the local network port +- **WPA2**: WiFi Protected Access 2 - wireless security protocol +- **QoS**: Quality of Service - bandwidth prioritization +- **MAC Address**: Media Access Control address - unique device identifier + +### Frequently Asked Questions + +**Q: Can I use the GL-AR150 as my main home router?** +A: Yes, but it's designed for travel/portable use. For a full home setup, consider GL-AR750S or GL-AX1800 with better performance and 5GHz support. + +**Q: How many devices can connect simultaneously?** +A: Technically 40+, but realistically 10-15 devices for good performance due to limited CPU/RAM. + +**Q: Can I install custom OpenWrt packages?** +A: Yes! Use the opkg package manager via SSH or LuCI web interface. + +**Q: Does it support 5GHz WiFi?** +A: No, only 2.4GHz. Consider GL-AR750 or GL-AR750S for dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz). + +**Q: Can I use it as a VPN server?** +A: Yes, but not recommended due to limited CPU power. It works better as a VPN client. + +**Q: What's the maximum VPN speed?** +A: OpenVPN: 4-6 Mbps, WireGuard: 10-15 Mbps (due to CPU limitations). + +**Q: Can I power it from a power bank?** +A: Yes! Any 5V/1A USB power source works, making it perfect for travel. + +**Q: Is it weatherproof?** +A: No, it's designed for indoor use. Not water or weather resistant. + +**Q: Can I upgrade the antenna?** +A: No, the antenna is internal and not replaceable. + +**Q: How do I access files on USB storage from my phone?** +A: Enable File Sharing, then use a file manager app with SMB/CIFS support (e.g., ES File Explorer, Solid Explorer). + +--- + +## Conclusion + +The GL-AR150 is a versatile, pocket-sized travel router that offers impressive functionality despite its compact size. Whether you're securing your connection in hotels, extending WiFi range, or creating a private VPN tunnel on public networks, the GL-AR150 provides a reliable and user-friendly solution. + +Key Takeaways: +- **Portable**: Ultra-compact and USB-powered +- **Versatile**: Multiple network modes for different scenarios +- **Secure**: Built-in VPN support and strong firewall +- **Hackable**: OpenWrt-based for advanced customization +- **Affordable**: Great value for travel and IoT projects + +With this guide, you should be well-equipped to set up, configure, and optimize your GL-AR150 router for your specific needs. Remember to keep the firmware updated and follow security best practices to ensure the best experience. + +Happy routing! 🌐🚀 + +--- + +### Document Information + +- **Version**: 1.0 +- **Last Updated**: February 2026 +- **Compatibility**: GL-AR150 (all hardware revisions) +- **Firmware Version**: 3.x and 4.x series + +### Contributing + +Found an error or have a suggestion? This guide can be improved with your feedback! + +### Disclaimer + +This guide is provided as-is for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, GL.iNet may update hardware or software that could change functionality described here. Always refer to official GL.iNet documentation for the most current information. + +The author and contributors are not responsible for any issues arising from following this guide. Always back up your configuration before making changes. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index 408a4c7..76516be 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -121,6 +121,10 @@ Each time you submit a prompt to GitHub Copilot CLI, your monthly quota of premi For more information about how to use the GitHub Copilot CLI, see [our official documentation](https://docs.github.com/copilot/concepts/agents/about-copilot-cli). +## 📖 Additional Resources + +- [GL-AR150 Travel Router Guide](GL-AR150-GUIDE.md) - Comprehensive guide for setting up and using the GL-AR150 travel router with secure networking features + ## 📢 Feedback and Participation We're excited to have you join us early in the Copilot CLI journey.