Running / Installing OpenWRT on Proxmox

OpenWRT is a Linux-based operating system specifically for network devices, such as routers and WiFi access points. This operating system is open source, which means the source code is publicly available and can be modified as needed. OpenWRT is designed to provide greater control over the network devices running it, allowing users to configure their devices with more flexible features and options than the built-in software typically found in commercial network devices.

Here are some important points about OpenWRT:

1. Open Source: OpenWRT is an open source project, which means anyone can access and modify its source code. This allows the developer community to continuously improve and expand its functionality.
2. Customizability: One of the main features of OpenWRT is its ability to be fully customized. Users can install various additional packages and modules, allowing them to turn their devices into routers, firewalls, WiFi access points, or other networking devices as desired.
3. Stability and Security: OpenWRT is known for its stability and security. Regular security updates and an active community help keep devices running OpenWRT safe from security threats.
4. Breadth of Device Support: OpenWRT has broad support for a wide range of hardware. This means you can install it on many different routers and network devices.
5. Packages and Repositories: OpenWRT has a package repository containing various applications and add-ons that can be installed. Users can easily add new functions to their devices by downloading and installing these packages.
6. Active Community: OpenWRT has an active community, which means you can find plenty of support and resources online if you run into problems or need help configuring your device.
7. OpenWRT can be a strong choice for those who want to take full control of their networking devices and customize them according to their needs. However, due to the high level of control it has, users who are inexperienced with network administration may take some time to understand and master it.

To run OpenWRT inside a virtual environment on Proxmox, you can follow these steps:

Prepare Proxmox : Make sure you have a working Proxmox VE installation. Proxmox is a Linux-based virtualization platform that allows you to easily create virtual machines (VMs).

Download OpenWRT : Download the appropriate OpenWRT with your desired architecture and version from the official OpenWRT site. Images are usually in .img or .qcow2.

Transfer Images to Proxmox : Upload your downloaded OpenWRT images to Proxmox. You can use tools like SCP (Secure Copy Protocol) or Winscp if you are on Windows to transfer images to the Proxmox server.

Create a New VM in Proxmox :

• Open the Proxmox web interface.
• Click on the appropriate datacenter.
• Click “Create VM” in the right panel.
• VM configuration :
• Select “General” and give your VM a name.
• Select the OS type “Linux” and the appropriate version.
• Under “CD/DVD”, select “Do not use any media” because you will be using images you have already uploaded.
• Under “Hard Disks,” add the hard disks that will be used by your VM.
• VM Network Configuration :
• Switch to the “Hardware” tab.
• Add network interfaces according to your needs (for example, model E1000 for virtual NICs).
• Set the network configuration according to your preferences, for example, can use “bridge” mode to connect directly to the physical network or NAT mode.

OpenWRT installation :

Go to the “Options” tab.

Under “Boot Order,” make sure “Hard Disk” is first. Then, click “Add” to add the hard disk from the OpenWRT image that you uploaded.

Save and Run the VM : Click “Create” or “Next” to complete the VM creation process, then click “Start” to run the VM.

OpenWRT Configuration : Once the OpenWRT VM is running, you can access it via SSH or web interface to complete network, security, and service configuration according to your needs.

Make sure you have enough knowledge of OpenWRT and Proxmox and network configuration before trying this. Also, make sure to properly secure your VMs and undergo regular security updates.

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