Set Up a Soft Router: A Comprehensive Guide to Network Freedom

This guide provides a detailed walkthrough for setting up a soft router, offering a path to circumvent internet restrictions for all devices on a home network. It targets users who are new to the concept, providing clarity and step-by-step instructions.

Understanding the Need for a Soft Router

In typical home networks, the router serves as the gateway to the internet. Devices connect to it via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. When accessing blocked content, direct connections fail because data packets don’t reach the intended servers.

Network diagram showing devices connected to a router, with arrows indicating data flow and a

Traditional methods involve running proxy tools like V2Ray or Clash on individual devices. A soft router centralizes this process, streamlining access for all connected devices.

The Advantages of a Soft Router

A soft router offers a more universal method. By running proxy tools directly on the router, all network devices gain unrestricted access without individual configuration. This approach is especially beneficial for devices lacking native proxy support, such as smart TVs or VR headsets.

Centralized proxy management for all devices.
Eliminates the need for individual device configuration.
Supports devices lacking native proxy tools.

Soft Router vs. Hard Router: Key Differences

Unlike conventional “hard routers” with fixed functionalities, soft routers are software-based, installed on devices like mini PCs, industrial control hosts, or even old laptops. Installing a routing system transforms these devices into routers capable of running advanced software.

A split image showing a traditional consumer router on one side and a mini PC running a routing software on the other side.

Common routing systems include OpenWRT, pfSense, and others. This guide focuses on OpenWRT, a popular open-source system known for its extensive plugin support.

Selecting Compatible Hardware

OpenWRT’s compatibility varies across devices, especially embedded systems. Check the official OpenWRT website for supported hardware. New users are advised against flashing hard routers directly due to potential risks and limited expandability. Instead, mini PCs offer easier system replacement via SD cards or USB drives.

Check OpenWRT compatibility list for your device.
Consider using a mini PC for easier setup and recovery.
Ensure the chosen device has at least two Ethernet ports.

Installing OpenWRT: Firmware Options

There are three primary methods for installing OpenWRT:

Using pre-compiled firmware: Simple but poses security risks due to potential bundled malware.
Self-compilation: Highly customizable but complex.
Official firmware with community software sources: Recommended approach, balancing security and flexibility.

This guide recommends using official OpenWRT firmware paired with the ImmortalWrt software source, which provides a wide array of community-maintained plugins and CDN-accelerated mirrors.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps to install ImmortalWrt:

Download the appropriate firmware for your device from the ImmortalWrt website.
Use a tool like Rufus (Windows) or the built-in disk imager (macOS/Linux) to flash the firmware onto a USB drive or SD card.
Boot your device from the USB/SD card. For x86 systems, you may need to adjust BIOS settings.

Screenshot of Rufus software with OpenWRT image selected and a USB drive targeted, highlighting the

After booting, configure network settings via the OpenWRT web interface (LuCI). The default LAN IP is usually 192.168.1.1.

Basic OpenWRT Configuration

Initial configuration involves disabling IPv6, setting a root password, and configuring LAN/WAN interfaces. Ensure the LAN and WAN are on different subnets to avoid conflicts.

Disable IPv6 to prevent issues with transparent proxies.
Set a strong root password.
Configure the WAN interface to connect to your modem via DHCP or PPPoE.

Integrating with Existing Network

To maintain Wi-Fi connectivity, repurpose your existing hard router as a wireless access point. Connect the soft router’s LAN port to the hard router’s WAN or LAN port, depending on the desired configuration.

Installing Proxy Plugins

Navigate to the “System” -> “Software” section in LuCI to install proxy plugins like OpenClash, PassWall, or HomeProxy. ImmortalWrt provides a rich selection of packages for easy installation.

Configuring and Activating Proxy

Each plugin has its own configuration process. Generally, you’ll need to add your proxy server details (either through direct input or subscription links) and enable the plugin.

Install desired proxy plugins via the software interface.
Add proxy server details to the chosen plugin.
Enable the plugin and test the connection.

Finalizing the Setup

After successful configuration, all devices connected to your network should automatically route traffic through the soft router, bypassing censorship and accessing blocked content.