Iwctl is a lightweight and efficient CLI tool for managing WiFi on Linux. This article provides a step-by-step guide on installing, using, and configuring iwctl through its configuration files to optimize your WiFi connections.
What is iwctl?
Iwctl is a CLI for iwd (iNet Wireless Daemon), a modern wireless daemon for Linux. Compared to wpa_supplicant
, iwd is lighter, faster, and more user-friendly.
Steps to Use IWCTL
1. Open Terminal and Start IWCTL
iwctl
2. List Wireless Devices
device list
This displays detected Wi-Fi devices.
3. Scan Available Wi-Fi Networks
station <device_name> get-networks
Replace <device_name>
with your device name.
4. Connect to a Wi-Fi Network
station <device_name> connect <SSID>
Enter the password when prompted.
5. Verify Connection
station <device_name> show
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure the kernel module for your Wi-Fi device is loaded.
- Check the iwd service status using
systemctl status iwd
if IWCTL isn’t running.
FAQ
-
What to do if IWCTL doesn’t detect the Wi-Fi device?
Verify if your device is recognized usinglsusb
orlspci
, and ensure drivers are installed. -
How can I save a Wi-Fi connection for automatic reconnection?
IWCTL automatically saves the network after a successful connection. -
Does IWCTL support WPA3 security?
Yes, IWCTL supports WPA3 security if your hardware is compatible.
IWCTL is a simple yet powerful tool for managing Wi-Fi networks on Linux. By using this tool, you can save time and resources without needing additional software.