Shareboxx - Offline Wifi Filesharing (RIP PirateBox)

How to Set Up Shareboxx - Offline WiFi Filesharing

Step 1: Introduction to Shareboxx

• Shareboxx is an offline file sharing system that allows users to connect to a WiFi network and share files through a captive portal.
• It is a modern alternative to the concept of dead drops and PirateBox, offering a more user-friendly experience.
• Shareboxx is a single piece of software that can be compiled on various platforms and provides a web interface for easy file sharing.

Step 2: Understanding the Shareboxx Architecture

• Shareboxx is built using Rust and combines backend and frontend into one codebase using Actix and Leptos frameworks.
• The main components include middleware for domain redirects, settings for upload size and memory limitations, API routes for file handling, and a user interface for browsing and uploading files.
• Leptos handles dynamic UI updates and file transfers seamlessly.

Step 3: Building and Installing Shareboxx

1. Clone the Shareboxx repository using Git.
2. Install Cargo Leptos by running cargo install cargo-leptos.
3. Build the Shareboxx application using cargo leptos build --release.
4. Run the installation scripts to set up the Shareboxx service on your device.
5. Make necessary changes in the configuration files if using an external WiFi adapter.

Step 4: Setting Up Captive Portal for Shareboxx

1. Run the provided shell scripts on a Raspberry Pi to enable the captive portal functionality.
2. Install DNS mask, IP tables, and configure routing rules to redirect traffic to the Shareboxx web interface.
3. Set up SSL certificates for secure connections if needed.
4. Start the Shareboxx service and ensure it is running correctly.

Step 5: Troubleshooting and Customization

• If using a USB WiFi adapter, make sure to update the interface names in the configuration files.
• Install drivers for the WiFi adapter if required to ensure stable connections.
• Customize the Shareboxx setup according to your specific hardware and network requirements.

Step 6: Testing Shareboxx

• Connect to the Shareboxx WiFi network and access the captive portal.
• Browse through directories, upload and download files, and explore the file sharing capabilities of Shareboxx.
• Ensure that file uploads and downloads are functioning correctly and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

By following these steps, you can set up Shareboxx on your device and create your own offline file sharing network for seamless sharing of files in a secure and user-friendly manner.