Hotspot on 64 bit Bookworm using USB Dongle

[abarrow]

Hi all,
I'm struggling with getting a hotspot set up using Network Manager in Bookworm. I want to use a USB-connected WiFi dongle to get better range.

I've tried several different dongles with different chipsets. In all cases, I am allowed to set up the hotspot on the USB device, but if I choose any security at all, the setup is accepted but the SSID isn't broadcast. If I take security off (no password), the hotspot SSID is broadcast and I can connect to it.

Has anyone been able to set up a hotspot using a USB Wifi adapter that works with security? If so, which dongle did you use?

TIA

Andy

[nrattawfas]

Setting up a hotspot with a USB WiFi dongle on Bookworm using Network Manager can be tricky, especially with security settings. The issue you described, where the SSID isn't broadcast when security is enabled, is often due to compatibility issues with the drivers or the specific dongle chipsets.

Here are a few things you can try:

1. **Check Driver Support**: Ensure that your USB dongle has the correct drivers installed and supports AP (Access Point) mode with security.

2. **Use a Different Dongle**: Some users have had success with dongles that use the **Realtek RTL8812AU** or **Atheros AR9271** chipsets, as these are more commonly supported in Linux for hotspot functionality.

3. **Manual Configuration**: Try setting up the hotspot manually using `hostapd` instead of Network Manager. This might give you more control over the configuration and help you bypass any limitations in Network Manager.

4. **Firmware Update**: Make sure your dongle's firmware is up to date, as updates can improve compatibility and functionality.

If these steps don't help, you might want to search or ask in forums specific to your Linux distribution or hardware for additional recommendations.

[abarrow]

I approved this in moderation, but I think we have one of our first cases of AI generated spam.

nrattawfas, if you are real, I'm going to need a reply from you stating such, otherwise you'll get purged.

[nrattawfas]

I do not know how to make the first post in this forum that can catch the attention to other users, I choose a question randomly and then I search on GG to respond ( )