MuPiBox Documentation MuPiBox NG

Network & Wi-Fi

Choose the network adapter, save Wi-Fi networks, set static IP addresses and avoid Wi-Fi problems – also with a USB Wi-Fi stick and several networks.

Under Settings → Network you manage adapters, Wi-Fi networks and IP addresses in one place.

Network status

Shows the active network path (cable or Wi-Fi), the IP address, the connected Wi-Fi and the signal strength. "Technical details" lists gateway, DNS and adapter data.

Network adapter

The box always uses only one Wi-Fi adapter: the preferred one. "Active" shows which path is really in use.

  • A USB Wi-Fi stick often receives much better inside an enclosure than the built-in Wi-Fi. When it is preferred, the box waits up to 30 seconds for it at boot.
  • The onboard Wi-Fi can only be switched off when another adapter demonstrably works – so you cannot lock yourself out.
  • Wi-Fi power saving: off is recommended for a music box – slightly higher consumption, fewer dropouts in streams.
  • Disable rtw88 deep power save: only for USB sticks with the rtw88 driver (many Realtek sticks). Helps against connection drops, takes effect after a restart.

Adding Wi-Fi

  1. Choose the adapter for the scan.
  2. Pick the network from the list, enter the password, connect.

Wi-Fi can also be set up directly on the display: hold the Wi-Fi icon in the status bar for about one second.

Saved Wi-Fi networks and IP addresses

Every saved Wi-Fi has its own IP configuration – DHCP (automatic) or a static IPv4 address with gateway and DNS. The setting is kept when switching between onboard and USB Wi-Fi.

Cable and Wi-Fi

With a network cable the box uses the cable. If you installed with the Wi-Fi template, you can set up the cable here in addition.

Internet detection

An IP address does not mean the internet is available. The box checks by itself whether the internet is reachable and hides online content (Spotify, radio, podcasts, Audible) while it is missing. Local media, downloaded episodes and the kids apps always stay available; NAS, Jellyfin and Music Assistant only need the home network.

Hotel and guest Wi-Fi

Open and WPA/WPA2 Personal networks can be connected. Login pages of hotel Wi-Fi (captive portals) cannot be shown by the box yet.