WiFi Configuration

"WiFi networks are like black holes - the signal strength drops exponentially with distance, and nobody really understands what happens inside." - Technology Extension of Murphy's Law

Configure your Pimeleon router's built-in WiFi access point to provide wireless connectivity. All WiFi settings are managed through the web interface.

WiFi Hardware Support

Pimeleon router supports WiFi on these Raspberry Pi models:

Note: While hardware supports 5 GHz, Pimeleon defaults to 2.4 GHz for maximum compatibility and range.

Configure WiFi via Web Interface

WiFi configuration is managed through the admin interfaceistration interface.

Access WiFi Settings

1. Open your browser to http://pimeleon.local/admin
2. Login with your admin password
3. Navigate to Settings → WiFi (if available in your version)

Basic WiFi Settings

SSID (Network Name):

• Default: Pimeleon-Router
• Change to your preferred network name
• Avoid special characters for compatibility

Password:

• Minimum 8 characters required for WPA2
• Use a strong, unique password
• Mix of letters, numbers, and symbols recommended

Security:

• WPA2-PSK (default) - Recommended for most devices
• WPA3 - If all your devices support it (Pi 4/5 only)

Channel:

• Auto (recommended) - Lets system select best channel
• Manual - Choose specific channel if experiencing interference

WiFi Frequency Bands

2.4 GHz (Default):

• Longer range (better wall penetration)
• More compatible with older devices
• More crowded frequency band
• Recommended for most users

5 GHz (Pi 3B+, Pi 4, Pi 5):

• Faster speeds
• Shorter range
• Less interference
• Better for modern devices in small areas

To switch bands: Check Settings → WiFi for band selection options.

Troubleshooting

WiFi Network Not Visible

Check these first:

1. Verify WiFi is enabled in the web interface Settings → System
2. Check WiFi Status shows "Active" in dashboard
3. Ensure your device supports the WiFi frequency (2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz)
4. Wait 2-3 minutes after router boot for WiFi to start

Solutions:

1. Power cycle the router (unplug for 10 seconds)
2. Try scanning from a different device
3. Check Settings → System for WiFi interface status
4. Verify SSID isn't hidden (broadcast should be enabled)

Can't Connect to WiFi

Password Issues:

• Verify password is correct (case-sensitive)
• Check for accidental spaces
• Try "Forget Network" and reconnect

Device Compatibility:

• Very old devices may not support WPA2
• Try with a modern smartphone first
• Some IoT devices require 2.4 GHz only

Connection Timeout:

• Check DHCP is enabled (Settings → DHCP)
• Verify IP range isn't exhausted
• Try connecting via Ethernet first to check router status

Slow WiFi Speed

Performance Optimization:

1. Check system load in web dashboard (System section)
   • High CPU/memory usage affects WiFi performance
   • Temperature should be < 70°C
2. Channel interference:
   • Try different WiFi channel in Settings
   • Use WiFi analyzer app to find clearest channel
   • Channels 1, 6, 11 are non-overlapping (2.4 GHz)
3. Distance and obstacles:
   • WiFi signal weakens through walls
   • Move router to central location
   • Avoid placing near metal objects or microwaves
4. Too many clients:
   • Raspberry Pi WiFi can handle ~20-30 devices
   • More devices = slower speeds for everyone
   • Consider external access point for > 20 devices

WiFi Keeps Disconnecting

Check these:

1. Power supply adequate (3A for Pi 4)
2. Temperature not too high (check dashboard)
3. SD card not failing (system logs would show errors)
4. No conflicting networks with same SSID nearby

Solutions:

1. Power cycle router
2. Check Settings → System for system health
3. Update to latest Pimeleon version if available
4. Consider using 5 GHz if on 2.4 GHz (less interference)

Best Practices

Security

• Use WPA2 minimum (WPA3 if all devices support it)
• Strong password (12+ characters, mixed case, numbers, symbols)
• Don't broadcast default SSID ("Pimeleon-Router")
• Keep Pimeleon updated for security patches

Performance

• Place router in central, elevated location
• Keep firmware updated
• Monitor system temperature (add heatsink/fan if needed)
• Limit connected devices to router's capacity
• Use Ethernet for high-bandwidth devices (streaming, gaming)

Compatibility

• Stick with 2.4 GHz for maximum compatibility
• Use WPA2 for older device support
• Avoid special characters in SSID
• Don't hide SSID (makes troubleshooting harder)

Network Configuration

Default WiFi Network:

• Interface: wlan0
• IP Range: 192.168.77.0/24
• Gateway: 192.168.77.1
• DHCP: Enabled
• DNS: Provided by router

These settings are configured automatically. Changes can be made through Settings → DHCP in the web interface.

Getting Help

If you experience WiFi issues:

1. Check web dashboard System section for health metrics
2. Verify Settings → System shows WiFi interface as "Active"
3. Review Query Log to confirm DNS is working
4. Take screenshots of any error messages
5. Visit community forum for support

Related Documentation

• Network Troubleshooting - Connectivity issues
• DHCP Configuration - IP address management
• Hardware Guide - Supported WiFi hardware

Note: All WiFi configuration is done through the web interface. This guide focuses on WebUI-based management. Advanced configuration options may be added in future Pimeleon versions.