Where Is the hostapd Config File?
hostapd reads access point settings from a config file under /etc on Linux. Main path, interfaces pattern and reload routine.
Last updated
hostapd turns a wireless card into an access point from one config file. Interface, SSID, channel and security live there. Clients and traffic never persist.
Distributions keep the file under /etc with a service wrapper around it. That placement makes moves one copy with the service stopped. Driver support decides everything, so confirm AP mode on the new card first.
Where hostapd stores this, by platform
/etc/hostapd/hostapd.conf
Interface, SSID, channel and security in one file. Exact path varies by packaging, so confirm against the service unit. Stop hostapd before copying.
Frequently asked questions
How do I migrate hostapd?
Copy hostapd.conf to the same path on the new machine with hostapd stopped. SSID, passphrase, channel and interface travel with it. Wireless interface names differ per host, so fix the interface line before starting the service.
Where do I set SSID and channel?
In the config file with interface, ssid and channel lines plus authentication blocks. Each radio needs its own file when several APs run together. Test with hostapd in foreground before enabling the service.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.