Creating WiFi Hotspot on Linux Using linux-wifi-hotspot | Step-by-Step Tutorial

Video Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, we’ll learn how to create a WiFi hotspot on Linux using the linux-wifi-hotspot tool. This tool allows you to share your internet connection with other devices, just like the hotspot feature in Windows.

Key Features

• Share WiFi while connected to another network
• Support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands
• Simple GUI interface
• QR code sharing
• View connected devices
• MAC filtering

Installation

Important Note: Always check the official documentation first. The instructions in this tutorial are for reference only and may not reflect the latest changes.

Method 1: Using PPA (Recommended for Ubuntu/Debian)

If you get the error add-apt-repository: command not found, first install the required package:

# Install software-properties-common
sudo apt update
sudo apt install software-properties-common

# Now you can add the PPA
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:lakinduakash/lwh
sudo apt update
sudo apt install linux-wifi-hotspot

Method 2: Manual Installation

If you can’t use the PPA method, you can install manually:

# Install dependencies
sudo apt install -y libgtk-3-dev build-essential gcc g++ pkg-config make hostapd libqrencode-dev libpng-dev

# Clone and install
git clone https://github.com/lakinduakash/linux-wifi-hotspot
cd linux-wifi-hotspot
make
sudo make install

Using the Hotspot

GUI Method (Easiest)

1. Search for “Wifi Hotspot” in your application menu
2. Or run wihotspot in terminal
3. Configure your hotspot:
   • Set SSID (network name)
   • Set password
   • Choose band (2.4GHz/5GHz)
   • Select internet source

Command Line Method

# Start hotspot
sudo create_ap wlan0 eth0 MyHotspot MyPassword

# Stop hotspot
sudo create_ap --stop wlan0

Conclusion

The linux-wifi-hotspot tool provides an easy way to share your internet connection on Linux. It’s particularly useful when you need to create a temporary network or share your connection with devices that don’t support VPN.

For the most up-to-date information, features, and troubleshooting, always refer to the official GitHub repository.

Disclaimer

Always ensure you have permission to share your internet connection and comply with your ISP’s terms of service.