Raspberry Pi Networking

Raspberry Pi Router

Portable Network Router for Secure Connectivity Anywhere

View on GitHub

Project Overview

A custom-built portable wireless router using Raspberry Pi 4, designed to provide secure, reliable network connectivity in any environment. This project transforms a Raspberry Pi into a full-featured router with VPN capabilities, firewall protection, and advanced QoS management.

Perfect for travel, temporary networks, or as a learning tool for network engineering concepts, this router handles DHCP, DNS, NAT, and WireGuard VPN, all while fitting in your pocket.

Hardware Specifications

Core Components

  • Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB RAM)
  • 64GB MicroSD Card (Samsung EVO)
  • Official Power Supply (5V/3A)
  • Aluminum Case with Fan

Network Adapters

  • Built-in Gigabit Ethernet (WAN)
  • USB 3.0 WiFi Adapter (AC1200)
  • Dual-band support (2.4/5GHz)
  • External antenna for better range

Power Options

  • 20,000mAh USB-C Power Bank
  • 6-8 hours runtime
  • Wall adapter for stationary use
  • Low power mode available

Software Configuration

Operating System

  • Raspberry Pi OS Lite (64-bit)
  • Kernel 6.1+ with custom modules
  • Optimized for networking
  • Headless operation

Security

  • WireGuard VPN server
  • iptables firewall
  • fail2ban for brute-force protection
  • WPA3 encryption

Network Services

  • dnsmasq (DHCP/DNS)
  • hostapd (Access Point)
  • NAT with iptables
  • QoS traffic shaping

Key Features

Built-in VPN Server

WireGuard VPN allows secure remote access to your network from anywhere. All traffic encrypted end-to-end with modern cryptography.

Advanced Firewall

Custom iptables rules block malicious traffic, prevent port scanning, and provide granular control over network access.

QoS Traffic Management

Prioritize important traffic (video calls, gaming) over background downloads. Automatic bandwidth allocation ensures smooth performance.

Web-Based Dashboard

Monitor connected devices, bandwidth usage, and router statistics through a clean web interface. Manage settings remotely.

Use Cases

Travel Router

Create secure WiFi from hotel Ethernet. VPN back home for safe browsing.

Learning Platform

Hands-on experience with routing, NAT, firewall rules, and VPN configuration.

Guest Network

Isolated network for visitors with bandwidth limits and content filtering.

Performance Metrics

940
Mbps Throughput
20+
Concurrent Devices
8hrs
Battery Life
30m
WiFi Range

Future Enhancements

  • Pi-hole ad blocking integration
  • Multi-WAN failover with cellular backup
  • Snort IDS for threat detection
  • Grafana dashboard for advanced monitoring
  • 3D-printed custom enclosure with OLED display

Build Your Own Pi Router

Interested in the configuration? Check out the guide on GitHub or reach out for tips!