I still recommend using a Linux gateway instead of an OpenWRT router, it’s stable, inexpensive, and fully compatible.

Linux gateways are the bomb! They’re stable, cheap, and super compatible. If you game and download torrents like me, you’ll want a Linux gateway over an OpenWRT router any day. It’s all about stability and performance, baby! Plus, it’s all about the experience – you’ll learn a ton while setting it up. Trust me, it’s a game-changer. 💥🎮

Key Takeaways

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The Benefits of Using a Side Gateway Instead of the Main Router

Tackling the Issue of Torrent Traffic

When using the main router, one problem I faced was filtering out torrent traffic from the internal network. Despite configuring plugins, all devices connected to the network ended up using the plugin for all their traffic, leading my small server’s 200GB monthly allowance to be depleted in under two hours. After considering a variety of solutions, I realized that deploying torrent traffic directly on the main router and using processname rules to filter it did not fully resolve the issue. Moreover, this method relied heavily on the main router’s CPU performance, making the X86 soft router a necessity. Due to considerations of power consumption, costs, stable packet forwarding for small packets, and other factors, I realized that the X86 main router was not suitable for my needs.

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Why Linux Gateway and Not OpenWRT Side Router?

To explain the difference between a Linux side gateway and a traditional OpenWRT side router, it’s important to highlight the working principles. A Linux side gateway uses proxies to take over all traffic with virtual TUN network cards, operating at the application layer. While it may not work as efficiently as OpenWRT side routers that use non-TUN mode, installation and compatibility are significant benefits. The Linux side gateway’s requirements are minimal, needing only a single gigabit Ethernet port.

TUN Mode Efficiency

The use of TUN mode means relying heavily on CPU allocation but ensures maximum compatibility. Arm platforms, such as Allwinner’s H3 or H5, and Amlogic’s S912, offer improved performance with better affordability.

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Why Choose a Linux Gateway?

Enhanced Performance and Cost-Efficiency

Arm platforms provide better performance at a lower cost, delivering significantly improved bandwidth utilization, making them ideal for a home network environment. The affordability of devices like the Nanopi Neo Nano, equipped with a gigabit Ethernet port, presents an excellent Linux-based solution.

| View my detailed installation guide on TPClash for more information on configuring your own Linux gateway. |

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Extensive Compatibility

Linux gateways offer seamless compatibility with routers – regardless of whether they connect directly to a modem or a standard home router. On the other hand, OpenWRT compatibility can present challenges when dealing with non-TUN mode plugins or if configuring OpenWRT for dual purposes, leading to potential issues.

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Conclusion

Adopting a Linux gateway is a strategic move that promises enhanced system control, improved home network performance, and most importantly, an immersive learning experience.

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