Common Questions

Will the Raspberry Pi 5 be supported?

Yes, it already is!

Will older versions, or other models, of the Raspberry Pi be supported?

Given most Raspberry Pi models use the same wifi chipset and due to how Antennas is packaged, yes, it would probably work on those devices. However, I don't test, certify, or endorse doing so. Only the latest version, subject to my ability to acquire the hardware, is actively tested. That is currently the Raspberry Pi 5.

What operating systems are supported?

Ubuntu Core is currently the only supported system. This is to provide the highest level of security for your wireless access point (which is usually the most vulnerable device in your home). Exceptions will be temporarily made if Ubuntu Core does not yet support the latest version of Raspberry Pi. Other operating systems that support Snaps will likely work, but I don't test, certify, or endorse doing so.

Will a heatsink worsen my wifi signal?

The wireless antennas are separate from the wireless chip. You can find the antennas by looking for a triangle next to the chip. Placing an appropriately sized heatsink on the wireless chip of your raspberry pi should not worsen signal because it doesn't block the antennas. The same should apply for the heatsink on the official raspberry pi active cooler.

Will a case worsen my wifi signal?

Most plastic cases will have no significant impact on signal, but some metal cases might act as a faraday cage.

How much RAM (memory) do I need?

A 2 or 4 GB model Raspberry Pi 4b, or a 4 GB model Raspberry Pi 5 should be more than enough. 8 GB models are not recommended. Each RAM module has the same memory speed. Therefore, purchasing Raspberry Pis with more memory will likely have no effect on performance. An entire system with Ubuntu Core and Antennas installed will only use about 151 megabytes of memory according to free --mega. Most consumer routers don't have much memory. An expensive one might have only 512 megabytes.

How much storage space do I need?

A 16 or 32 gigabyte micro sd card is enough. Focus on getting a card that is faster (at least V30 and A1). There are recommendations on the Getting Started page. All storage on a system with Ubuntu Server 23.10 and Antennas installed is only 2.7 gigabytes according to df --si .

Can I use a third-party wifi adapter?

Yes, see sudo antennas.config set --help for how to configure a custom "wifi-interface". Then rerun the "antennas.setup-ap" service. Be warned that the firmware for the third-party wifi adapter will likely be proprietary and buggy leading to a lot of issues. I highly recommend just using the built-in wifi because it has the most stable firmware I've been able to find.