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Yes. Supernetworks’ Secure Programmable Router (SPR) has a prebuilt Raspberry Pi image and a setup guide for Raspberry Pi 4/5 Model B, but the documented Wi-Fi router setup also requires a compatible external Wi-Fi adapter. SPR aims to give you configurable control over network devices; its security claims are project design goals, not an independently verified guarantee.
What SPR does—and what “secure” means here
SPR is Supernetworks’ router project. The project says it is designed to prevent network attacks that allow devices to breach laterally across networks. That is the project’s stated objective, not evidence of an independent security audit or a guarantee that a particular installation cannot be compromised. See the SPR project description.
Running a router on a Raspberry Pi also means taking responsibility for the host’s configuration and upkeep. The Raspberry Pi Foundation recommends keeping software current, protecting accounts, using key-based SSH authentication, and configuring a firewall. Its documentation explains that “A firewall helps protect your Raspberry Pi by controlling which network connections are allowed or blocked.” These are general host-security practices, not an audit of SPR. See Raspberry Pi operational security.
Hardware the documented Raspberry Pi setup needs
Supernetworks’ guide covers Raspberry Pi 4/5 Model B, but its detailed assumptions describe a Pi 4 Model B connected upstream through its built-in Ethernet port and using an external mt76-based Wi-Fi adapter for the access point. The guide links a Pi 5 setup page as well; do not assume every Pi revision or adapter works identically. Consult the current Raspberry Pi 4/5 hardware guide to confirm compatibility before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Item | Role in the documented setup | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4/5 Model B | Runs the router image. | The detailed hardware assumptions refer to a Pi 4 Model B; the guide also links setup information for Pi 5. |
| External mt76-based Wi-Fi adapter | Provides the wireless access point. | Named examples include Netgear A8000 and ALFA AWUS036AXML (Wi-Fi 6), and Netgear A620 and Alfa AWUS036ACM (Wi-Fi 5). Verify current compatibility. The Pi’s built-in wireless is not used as the AP by default in this configuration because the guide says it lacks AP/VLAN support. |
| Ethernet cable | Connects the Pi for initial setup and provides the documented wired uplink. | The built-in Ethernet port is used for WAN in the guide’s arrangement. |
| USB SSD or SD card | Provides storage for the system. | Supernetworks recommends a USB SSD. It says a 16 GB SD card can work, but does not recommend it. |
| USB Ethernet adapter (optional) | Adds wired LAN connections. | The guide names a TP-Link UE300 as an example; the built-in Ethernet port is occupied by WAN in this arrangement. |
| Powered USB 3.0 hub (optional) | Provides additional USB capacity for multiple Wi-Fi adapters. | The guide recommends a powered hub when using multiple wireless adapters. |
How setup works
The project provides a prebuilt image that you flash with an imaging utility. Router mode changes the host’s network configuration, so use the current project instructions and keep a practical recovery path—for example, access to the Pi and the ability to restore your previous network arrangement if setup fails.
- Check the current SPR hardware guide and confirm your Pi model and external Wi-Fi adapter are supported.
- Flash the SPR Raspberry Pi image to your chosen storage using an imaging utility, following the project’s current guide.
- Connect the Pi by Ethernet for first boot, as the guide directs.
- Join the
sprlab-setupwireless access point, then openhttps://192.168.2.1. The guide also listshttps://spr.localwhere local name resolution works. - Complete the setup interface’s networking steps, add your first device, and set a password for the interface.
Because router mode changes networking on the host, avoid treating this like an ordinary desktop-app install: follow the live guide for the selected Pi setup and retain a way to undo or recover the configuration.
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.
What performance figures do—and do not—tell you
Supernetworks reports that its Wi-Fi 5 adapters have reached 500–550 Mbps in a low-noise environment, that Wi-Fi 6 adapters can get closer to 700 Mbps in a low-noise environment, and that a TP-Link UE300 USB Ethernet adapter has run near line speed on the Pi at about 950 Mbps. These figures come from the project’s hardware guide; its retrieved material does not provide a dated benchmark protocol or independent verification. They are not guaranteed household speeds or a promise of typical results.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where SPR fits among router options
SPR is a reasonable option to investigate if you specifically want a configurable Pi-based router and are comfortable checking hardware compatibility, following a network setup guide, and maintaining the host. The available project documentation establishes SPR’s own hardware and setup assumptions, but does not provide a controlled comparison against OpenWrt or a conventional consumer router.
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- 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.
- Hardware compatibility: SPR’s documented Wi-Fi setup depends on an external mt76-based adapter; check chipset and driver support rather than buying by brand name alone.
- Configuration and upkeep: SPR provides an image and guided setup, while router mode changes host networking and ongoing security maintenance remains important.
- Ports and storage: The guide uses the Pi’s built-in Ethernet for WAN and describes USB Ethernet for additional wired devices; it recommends USB SSD storage.
- Performance and security evidence: The quoted throughput is project-reported, and the project’s security positioning is not a third-party audit. The available material does not establish comparative performance or security.
Pi-hole is a separate DNS sinkhole project, not a built-in or required part of SPR. Its documentation also covers using WireGuard for remote access to Pi-hole and optionally internal devices, but that does not establish that SPR includes either service. See Pi-hole’s overview and its WireGuard guide.
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
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- 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
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- 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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