Networking
Self-host OpenWrt (x86) on a VPS
A Linux OS for routers, on your own hardware.
Turn an x86 box into a fully-featured router with firewall, VPN and package flexibility.
Why self-host OpenWrt (x86)?
Running OpenWrt on a VPS gives you a router you fully control, with WireGuard and firewall features built in.
How to install OpenWrt (x86)
- 1
Provision a VPS
Choose a plan with room for your data as well as the app.
- 2
Install the stack
Install OpenWrt x86 image.
- 3
Deploy the application
Follow the project’s official install guide for your distribution.
- 4
Enable HTTPS
Serve it on your own domain behind a reverse proxy with a certificate.
- 5
Back it up
Schedule a database dump plus a copy of any uploaded files to an off-box location.
Practical tips
- Give OpenWrt (x86) its own database user with rights only on its own schema.
- Reverse-proxy OpenWrt (x86) and terminate TLS at the proxy so certificates are managed in one place.
- Take a VPS snapshot before major upgrades so you can roll back cleanly.
- Keep OpenWrt (x86) patched — most self-hosting incidents are unpatched software.
Frequently asked questions
- How much RAM does OpenWrt (x86) need?
- Plan on 1 GB for typical use; add headroom if you expect many concurrent users.
- What stack does OpenWrt (x86) run on?
- OpenWrt x86 image.
- Can I run other things on the same VPS?
- Yes — size the plan so OpenWrt (x86) plus your other workloads fit in RAM with room to spare.
Looking for something else? Popular alternatives include pfSense, OPNsense, RouterOS — browse all app guides.