If you’re running OpenWRT on a router with limited internal storage, using a USB external drive (like an SSD or flash drive) as the main software installation path can be a lifesaver. This guide walks you through using Extroot to mount external storage for installing packages and storing data — even after a reboot.

✅ Step-by-Step: Setting Up USB Drive as Software Storage on OpenWRT

🔄 1. Update the Package List

Before doing anything, log in to your router via SSH (using tools like PuTTY or Terminal), and update the available package list:

opkg update

📦 2. Install Required USB and Filesystem Support Packages

Since OpenWRT often resets packages on reboot, make sure to (re)install all required packages:

opkg install block-mount kmod-fs-ext4 kmod-usb-storage kmod-usb-storage-uas
opkg install fdisk

🔍 3. Check If Your USB Drive Is Detected

Run the following commands:

lsblk
block info

You should see something like /dev/sda1 (for swap) and /dev/sda2 (main storage). If you don’t, try unplugging and replugging the drive.

💽 4. Format the Drive (If Needed)

If /dev/sda2 isn’t formatted properly, format it with ext4:

mkfs.ext4 /dev/sda2

⚠️ Warning: This will erase all existing data on /dev/sda2.

📁 5. Mount the USB Drive Manually

Create a directory and mount the drive:

mkdir -p /mnt/sda2
mount -t ext4 /dev/sda2 /mnt/sda2

Now verify it:

df -h

You should see /dev/sda2 mounted on /mnt/sda2.

📤 6. Copy Existing System Data to the SSD

Copy the overlay data to your SSD:

tar -C /overlay -cvf - . | tar -C /mnt/sda2 -xvf -

This step ensures that your system data moves to the SSD.

⚙️ 7. Configure Extroot in /etc/config/fstab

Tell OpenWRT to use the USB SSD as the overlay (installation path) on boot:

uci set fstab.@global[0].anon_mount='0'
uci set fstab.@global[0].auto_mount='1'
uci set fstab.@global[0].auto_swap='1'

uci set fstab.@mount[0]=mount
uci set fstab.@mount[0].target='/overlay'
uci set fstab.@mount[0].device='/dev/sda2'
uci set fstab.@mount[0].fstype='ext4'
uci set fstab.@mount[0].options='rw,sync'
uci set fstab.@mount[0].enabled='1'

uci set fstab.@swap[0]=swap
uci set fstab.@swap[0].device='/dev/sda1'
uci set fstab.@swap[0].enabled='1'

uci commit fstab

🔁 8. Reboot and Verify

Now, reboot your router:

reboot

After the reboot, run:

df -h

You should now see /overlay mounted on /dev/sda2 — congratulations, your OpenWRT router is now using the USB drive as the main storage!

👨‍🔧 Final Tips

• Make sure your drive stays plugged in all the time.
• If the router fails to boot properly, remove the USB and reboot.
• Using a quality SSD or high-speed USB drive helps with performance and longevity.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out to us at ITSupport.com.bd — we’re always happy to help!

When choosing a printer for book printing in Dubai, consider factors such as print volume, budget, paper types, and desired print quality. Digital printers are versatile and cost-effective for small print jobs, while offset printers offer high-quality printing and consistent color accuracy. However, they have higher initial setup costs and longer turnaround times for smaller print runs. Hybrid printers combine the best of both digital and offset printing, producing high-quality output for both short and long runs but with higher initial investment and complex operation and maintenance.

For high-volume printing needs, offset printers are generally preferred, while digital printers can produce excellent quality for shorter runs. Consider the range of paper types and sizes needed, and look for printers with advanced color management systems. Assess your budget by considering the initial cost of the printer, ongoing maintenance costs, and consumable costs.

For expert advice, consult with printing equipment suppliers in Dubai, who can assess your requirements and recommend the most suitable printer for your business. Additionally, research different printer models, consult with other printers in Dubai, and consider outsourcing for occasional or low-volume printing needs.

Considerations for choosing the right printing method include print volume, quality, budget, paper types and sizes, color accuracy, and local expertise. Offset printing is cost-effective and high-quality for large print runs, while digital printing is ideal for short runs and quick turnarounds. Digital printing is budget-friendly, while offset printing is better for large print runs and premium quality. Consider the specific paper types and sizes needed for your books, as some printers are more versatile. Look for printers with advanced color management systems for accurate color reproduction. Consult local printing equipment suppliers and service providers in Dubai for accurate advice. Research different printer models, consult with other printers in Dubai, and consider outsourcing for occasional or low-volume printing needs. These steps help ensure the best printer model for your business needs.

Both HP and Canon offer a wide range of printer models suitable for book printing in Dubai. Your best choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

Here are some popular models from both brands that you might consider:

HP:

• HP PageWide XL 8200: This high-speed, large-format printer is ideal for high-volume book printing. It offers excellent print quality and fast print speeds.
  sourcegraphics.com

  HP PageWide XL 8200 printer
• HP OfficeJet Pro 9020: This all-in-one printer is a good choice for smaller print runs and offers high-quality photo printing.
   http://www.amazon.co.uk

  HP OfficeJet Pro 9020 printer

Canon:

• Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000: This professional photo printer is designed for high-quality printing on various paper types, including fine art papers.
  http://www.canon.co.za

  Canon imagePROGRAF PRO1000 printer
• Canon imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX C2520: This high-performance multifunctional printer is suitable for high-volume printing and offers advanced features like automatic document feeding and scanning.
  http://www.stech.ink

  Canon imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX C2520 printer

Additional Tips:

• Consider your budget: Both HP and Canon offer a range of printers at different price points.
• Think about your print volume: If you need to print large books, you’ll need a printer that can handle high-volume printing.
• Think about your print quality: If you need high-quality prints, you’ll need a printer with advanced features like high-resolution printing and color management.
• Think about your paper types: Some printers are more versatile than others and can handle a wider range of paper types.
• Think about your connectivity options: Some printers offer wireless connectivity, which can be convenient for printing from mobile devices.

It seems like the EHCP (Easy Hosting Control Panel) service is not installed properly or there might be an issue with its systemd service unit. Let’s troubleshoot the problem step by step:

1. Check EHCP Installation:
Make sure EHCP is installed correctly on your system. Check the installation logs or any error messages during the installation process.

2. Check EHCP Service Unit:
Verify if the EHCP service unit file exists in the systemd directory. It seems that the service unit file is missing, which is causing the “Unit ehcp.service not found” error.

ls /etc/systemd/system/ehcp.service

If the file is missing, you may need to reinstall EHCP or manually create the service unit file.

3. Reinstall EHCP:
If EHCP is not installed correctly, you may want to reinstall it. Follow the installation instructions provided by the EHCP documentation or the source from which you downloaded it.

4. Create EHCP Service Unit File:
If the service unit file is missing, you can create it manually. Create a file named `ehcp.service` in the `/etc/systemd/system/` directory. Here’s an example:

plaintext
[Unit]
Description=EHCP Service

[Service]
ExecStart=/path/to/ehcp/startup/script

[Install]
WantedBy=default.target

Replace `/path/to/ehcp/startup/script` with the actual path to the EHCP startup script.

5. Reload systemd and Start EHCP:
After creating or verifying the service unit file, reload systemd and try starting the EHCP service again.

sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl start ehcp

Check the status:

sudo systemctl status ehcp

If there are any errors, they should be displayed in the status output, helping you diagnose the issue.

Remember to replace placeholder paths and commands with the actual ones used in your EHCP installation. If you encounter specific error messages during these steps, please provide them, so I can offer more targeted assistance.

I’m unable to provide instructions on how to bypass a login screen for security reasons. However, I can offer alternative approaches that respect security measures and help you access your router’s configuration page:

1. If you have information about your internet connection details, such as the PPTP username and password provided by your ISP, as well as the IP address for connecting to the internet, you can consider resetting your router and configuring it according to your needs. Alternatively, you can contact your ISP to obtain these details directly and connect your laptop to the internet without using a WiFi router.

2. Need Essential Information:

   • • Router model: Know your router’s model for accurate default credentials and support.
     • ISP’s policies: Be aware of any restrictions or specific procedures from your ISP.

3. I’m unable to provide instructions on how to bypass a login screen for security reasons. However, I can offer alternative approaches that respect security measures and help you access your router’s configuration page:

   1. Contact Your ISP:

   • • Start here: Reach out to your ISP’s customer support and explain your situation. They can provide you with the correct login credentials or temporarily disable the restrictions to allow you access.

   2. Attempt Default Credentials:

   • • Common combinations: Before resetting the router, try using common default usernames and passwords, such as:
       • • Username: admin
       • • Password: admin or password (or both blank)
       • • Consult your router’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific default credentials.

   3. Reset the Router (if allowed):

   • • Last resort: If the ISP can’t assist and default credentials fail, consider resetting the router to its factory settings. This will erase any custom settings, including the ISP-added password, but it will also require you to:
       • • Reconfigure your Wi-Fi network name and password.
       • • Set up other custom settings again.
       • • Important: Check your ISP’s policies regarding router resets. Some ISPs may prohibit this action.

   Reset Instructions (if permitted):

   1. 1. Locate the reset button: It’s usually a small, recessed button on the back or bottom of the router.
   1. 1. Press and hold the button: Use a paperclip or similar object to press and hold the reset button for 10-30 seconds (exact duration varies by model).
   1. 1. Wait for the router to restart: The lights on the router will blink or turn off/on, indicating a reset.
   1. 1. Access the configuration page: Use the default credentials for your router model (usually printed on a sticker on the device or found in the manual).

   Essential Information:

   • • Router model: Know your router’s model for accurate default credentials and support.
   • • ISP’s policies: Be aware of any restrictions or specific procedures from your ISP.

   Security Considerations:

   • • Avoid unauthorized access: Never attempt to bypass security measures without proper authorization or knowledge.
     • Maintain network integrity: Respecting security protocols helps protect your network and information.