Ethernet or Wireless?

You have the flexibility to use either an Ethernet connection (eth0) or a wireless connection (wlan0) with your Raspberry Pi when setting up RaspAP.

Ethernet Connection (eth0)

• Connecting your Raspberry Pi to the network via Ethernet is a straightforward option.

• The Quick Installer can automate the setup process when your Pi is connected to Ethernet.

• Using Ethernet provides a stable and reliable connection for the initial setup and configuration of RaspAP.

Wireless Connection (wlan0)

• RaspAP also supports setting up the Raspberry Pi as a wireless client, also known as managed mode, using the wlan0 interface.

• To use the wireless connection, you need to configure your Pi to connect to an existing wireless network before running the RaspAP installer.

• The documentation mentions that for best results, you should connect as a WiFi client with wlan0.

• Specific instructions for setting up the wireless connection on a Pi Zero W are available in the documentation.

Simultaneous AP and WiFi Client (AP-STA Mode)

• RaspAP allows you to create an access point (AP) while simultaneously connecting to another wireless network as a client.

• This is often referred to as AP-STA mode.

• To use this mode, you need to configure your Pi as a wireless client (managed mode) first, and then enable the AP-STA mode from the RaspAP web interface.

Recommendation

• If you have the option to connect your Raspberry Pi to the network via Ethernet, it is generally recommended to use that for the initial setup and configuration of RaspAP.

• An Ethernet connection provides a stable and reliable connection, making the setup process smoother.

• However, if you don't have access to an Ethernet connection or prefer to use the wireless connection, you can configure your Pi as a wireless client and then proceed with the RaspAP installation.

• Keep in mind that when using a wireless connection, the stability and performance may be affected by factors such as signal strength, interference, and distance from the wireless access point.

If Ethernet is not available or preferred, you can configure your Pi as a wireless client and proceed with the RaspAP installation. The choice ultimately depends on your specific setup and requirements.