OpenWRT-Based Travel Router for Raspberry Pi CM4

Introduction

This project presents a custom OpenWRT-based travel router built on the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) platform, utilizing the Waveshare CM4-DUAL-ETH-MINI board. It is designed to provide reliable and secure internet connectivity for professionals and enthusiasts who require consistent network access while traveling.

Usage

[!WARNING] The firmware is customized for specific hardware configuration. If you have a different configuration, you may need to build the firmware yourself.

Hardware Specifications

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4

• Processor: Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz
• Memory: 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM (depending on model)
• Storage: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC Flash (depending on model)
• Wireless: 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, BLE
• Video & Audio: 2 × 4K HDMI, 2 × MIPI DSI display, 2 × MIPI CSI-2 camera

Waveshare CM4-DUAL-ETH-MINI Board

• Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports
• 1x USB 3.0 Type-A port
• 1x Micro-SD card slot
• 1x USB 2.0 pin header
• 1x 12V DC power input
• Supports CM4 and CM4Lite modules
• Compact size: 85mm x 56mm

Key Features

Advanced Networking Capabilities

1. Multi-WAN Support: Facilitates seamless switching between various internet sources.
2. VPN Integration: Includes support for OpenVPN and WireGuard, ensuring secure and private connections.
3. Tethering Compatibility: Supports multiple tethering options for use with mobile devices.
4. Extensive WiFi Adapter Support: Accommodates a wide range of WiFi adapters for optimal connectivity.

User-Centric Software Features

1. Intuitive Web Interface: Offers a modern, user-friendly interface for effortless network management.
2. Smart Network Management:
   • Bandwidth monitoring
   • WiFi scheduling
   • System temperature monitoring
3. File Sharing Capabilities: Incorporates Samba for convenient file sharing within the network.

Security and Performance Optimization

1. Firewall Configuration: Ensures network security through robust firewall settings.
2. Quality of Service (QoS): Implements Smart Queue Management for optimized network performance.
3. DNS over HTTPS: Provides enhanced privacy for DNS queries.

Ideal Use Cases

This travel router is particularly well-suited for:

• Business professionals requiring reliable internet access during travel
• Remote workers needing secure connections in various locations
• Individuals seeking to enhance their home network with advanced features
• Travelers desiring consistent internet access in diverse environments

Software Package Highlights

• Base System: OpenWRT with LuCI web interface
• Network Management: Multi-WAN support, QoS, firewall configuration
• VPN: OpenVPN, WireGuard
• DNS: HTTPS DNS proxy
• Modem Support: QMI and MBIM protocols for cellular modems
• WiFi: Support for various USB WiFi adapters
• Monitoring: Bandwidth, system statistics, and thermal monitoring
• File Sharing: Samba module

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License. See the LICENSE file for more information.