SUBZero is a do-it-yourself, portable file server built around a Raspberry Pi Zero W. It creates a local Wi-Fi network so nearby devices can share files through a browser without an internet connection. It is a project—not a finished NAS for sale—and its published setup dates to 2019; its GitHub repository has been archived since July 25, 2022.
What SUBZero does
SUBZero stands for “Secure USB Backup Zero.” The project turns a Raspberry Pi Zero W and microSD card into a local wireless file server. Its documented setup advertises a Wi-Fi network named SUBZero and makes file uploads and sharing available at https://192.168.1.1. The project describes this as a way to exchange files without internet access or cloud storage.
The authors list a WPA2-protected access point, local TCP/IP networking, an HTTPS file server, removable storage, and optional router configuration and IP masquerading among its features. These are design claims in the project materials, not independent tests or confirmation of current security. By default, routing and internet access are not configured.
Parts the documented build calls for
| Part | Role and project guidance |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Zero W | The central computer and wireless access point for the build. |
| microSD card | Stores the operating system and files. The repository specifies at least 16 GB for its prebuilt image; it does not establish a currently tested maximum. |
| Pi Zero USB Stem | Optional solder-on part that provides a direct USB connection. The repository also describes an adapter-powered route, but does not give a current adapter compatibility list. |
| Soldering iron or station | Needed if installing the optional solder-on USB Stem; the repository marks soldering equipment optional overall. |
| 3D printer | Optional, for making an enclosure. |
The project says storage can be expanded to use more of the card, and that the microSD card is replaceable. Its published instructions do not establish a current tested card-size limit.
#1 Best Overall
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Two historical installation paths
The project documents two approaches: flash its prebuilt image to a microSD card, or clone the repository and run its install script. The instructions date from 2019 and specify Raspbian Stretch Lite; they should be treated as historical guidance, not as confirmation that the image, scripts, or operating system remain compatible with current Raspberry Pi software.
- Prebuilt image: Download the SUBZero image from the Hackster project page, then flash it to a microSD card. The repository specifies a minimum 16 GB card for this route.
- Install from source: Follow the repository’s source instructions to clone the project and run its install script. The repository is read-only, so this path is not an actively maintained installation method.
After setup, the historical instructions say to connect a device to the SUBZero Wi-Fi network and open the local address https://192.168.1.1 in a browser to access file sharing. The project’s default configuration does not provide internet routing.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Security and maintenance limits
The published setup includes default Wi-Fi credentials of raspberry and operating-system credentials of pi:raspberry. Change both before using the device. The project also uses a self-signed HTTPS certificate, which can trigger a browser warning. A warning does not establish that the connection is safe to trust; do not dismiss it without independently verifying the build and understanding the risks.
HTTPS and WPA2 are features named in the project description, but they do not establish the software’s present patch status, cryptographic configuration, or suitability for exposure beyond an isolated local network. Do not expose this historical setup to the internet based on the project description alone.
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The Hackster guide was published February 12, 2019. GitHub reports that the Halcy0nic/SUBZero repository was archived on July 25, 2022, making it read-only. The available project information does not verify current compatibility, active support, or later maintenance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is SUBZero right for you?
SUBZero is most relevant if you want to explore a small DIY device for local file sharing and are prepared to assess and update an older software project yourself. It is not a ready-to-buy product or a current, maintained NAS recommendation. If you need dependable storage, ongoing security updates, or internet-accessible file sharing, the archived instructions are not enough to establish that this build meets those needs.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
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- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
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- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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