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hostapd Command Cheat Sheet

hostapd (Host Access Point Daemon) enables a Linux system to act as a Wi-Fi access point. It handles authentication and manages wireless configurations.

Install hostapd

sudo apt install hostapd

Sample Configuration File

Create /etc/hostapd/hostapd.conf:

interface=wlan0
driver=nl80211
ssid=MyWiFi
hw_mode=g
channel=6
auth_algs=1
wmm_enabled=1
wpa=2
wpa_passphrase=securepass123
wpa_key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
rsn_pairwise=CCMP

Start with Config File

sudo hostapd /etc/hostapd/hostapd.conf

Enable on Boot

sudo systemctl enable hostapd

Troubleshooting

  • Check logs with journalctl -xe or sudo hostapd -dd.
  • Ensure dnsmasq or DHCP is configured separately.

Notes

  • Requires compatible wireless adapter and driver (e.g., nl80211).
  • Used in Raspberry Pi hotspot and embedded networking solutions.