Key Features and Capabilities of the NanoPi R5S - itnett/FTD02H-N GitHub Wiki

Nanopi R5S

The NanoPi R5S is a compact and versatile single-board computer (SBC) designed for networking, development, and multimedia applications. Given its powerful hardware features, it can be used for a variety of practical and educational purposes in a home lab or small business network setup.

Key Features and Capabilities of the NanoPi R5S

  1. CPU and GPU Power:

    • CPU: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor (Rockchip RK3568B2) up to 2.0GHz ā€” provides good computational performance for networking tasks, software development, and lightweight server workloads.
    • GPU: Mali-G52 1-Core-2EE supports OpenGL ES 1.1, 2.0, 3.2, Vulkan 1.0 and 1.1, and OpenCL 2.0 Full Profile ā€” suitable for graphical tasks, video decoding, and applications that require some level of GPU acceleration.

  2. Networking:

    • Ethernet Ports: One 1Gbps Ethernet port and two 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports ā€” ideal for high-speed networking, building a router, firewall, or a small-scale network server.
    • USB Ports: Two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports ā€” provide connectivity for external storage, additional network adapters, or peripheral devices.

  3. Storage Options:

    • Internal eMMC Storage: Available in 8GB or 16GB options for onboard storage ā€” allows for faster boot times and more reliable storage compared to SD cards.
    • M.2 PCIe Slot: Supports NVMe SSDs via M.2 PCIe interface ā€” allows for expansion of fast storage suitable for hosting databases, virtual machines, or caching.

  4. Expandable Connectivity:

    • HDMI 2.0: Supports 4K@60fps output ā€” can be connected to a monitor for use as a lightweight desktop or for visual network monitoring and management.
    • MicroSD Slot: For expandable storage or booting different operating systems.

  5. Memory and Development Features:

    • RAM: Options for 2GB or 4GB LPDDR4X RAM ā€” suitable for running various applications, including light servers, development environments, or Docker containers.
    • GPIO and Expansion Ports: Includes SPI, UART, PWM, and GPIO connectors ā€” allows for interfacing with sensors, relays, and other hardware, making it useful for IoT projects.

  6. Operating System Compatibility:

    • OS Support: Compatible with multiple Linux distributions, such as FriendlyWrt (OpenWRT variant), Ubuntu, Debian ā€” suitable for different use cases, from routing and firewalling to software development and containerization.

Practical Applications for NanoPi R5S

  1. Router/Firewall:

    • With its dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports and built-in gigabit Ethernet, the NanoPi R5S can serve as a high-performance router or firewall. Install software like OpenWRT, pfSense, or OPNsense to manage network traffic, set up VLANs, configure VPNs (like WireGuard or OpenVPN), and apply firewall rules to secure the network.

  2. Network Attached Storage (NAS):

    • By adding an NVMe SSD via the M.2 slot, you can set up the NanoPi R5S as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device. Use software like OpenMediaVault or Samba to share files over the network, create backups, or host a media server (e.g., Plex or Jellyfin).

  3. Virtualization and Containers:

    • With support for Ubuntu and Debian, the NanoPi R5S can run lightweight virtual machines or containers using tools like Docker or LXC. This makes it ideal for setting up and testing small-scale applications or microservices.

  4. IoT Gateway:

    • Its GPIO pins and support for UART, SPI, and other interfaces make the NanoPi R5S a suitable platform for building an IoT gateway. You can connect sensors, control devices, or aggregate data from various IoT endpoints, and use MQTT brokers like Mosquitto for communication.

  5. Home Automation Controller:

    • Install Home Assistant or OpenHAB to manage and control smart home devices. The NanoPi R5Sā€™s processing power and connectivity make it suitable for running automation rules, handling data from multiple sensors, and managing smart home devices.

  6. Multimedia Center or Thin Client:

    • With its HDMI 2.0 output supporting 4K video, the NanoPi R5S can function as a media center running Kodi or as a thin client connected to a more powerful server via protocols like RDP or VNC.

  7. Learning and Development Platform:

    • Use it as a low-cost platform for learning Linux administration, networking, software development, or embedded systems programming. Install Ubuntu or Debian to create a full-fledged development environment for various programming languages and tools.

How to Leverage the NanoPi R5S in a Home Lab Scenario

  1. Network Testing and Simulation:

    • Set up different network environments using OpenWRT or pfSense. Create scenarios for network segmentation (VLANs), traffic shaping (QoS), and VPN configurations. Test firewall rules, IDS/IPS settings, and failover mechanisms.

  2. Advanced Networking Training:

    • Use the NanoPi R5S to simulate a small-scale enterprise network with real-world features. Implement protocols like BGP, OSPF, or EIGRP using routing software. This is ideal for preparing for networking certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, MikroTik MTCNA).

  3. Security Practice and Penetration Testing:

    • Install Kali Linux in a container or as a VM on Ubuntu to practice penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and network security hardening.

  4. Container and Cloud Native Application Development:

    • Set up Docker or Kubernetes (K3s) clusters for developing and deploying microservices. Experiment with CI/CD pipelines, logging, and monitoring using open-source tools like ELK Stack.

Conclusion

The NanoPi R5S is a versatile, low-cost hardware platform that can be used for numerous applications in networking, security, development, and multimedia. Its combination of multiple high-speed Ethernet ports, expandable storage, Linux compatibility, and compact size makes it ideal for learning, prototyping, and home lab use.

Here is a table that showcases the features of the NanoPi R5S, along with various scenarios where it can be used in a home lab or training environment. The table also highlights the relevance of these scenarios to real-world certifications, demonstrating how the NanoPi R5S can be a valuable tool for gaining practical experience and preparing for various networking and security exams.

NanoPi R5S Features, Use Cases, and Certification Relevance

Feature Scenario/Use Case Relevance to Certifications Role of NanoPi R5S
Router/Firewall Set up NanoPi R5S as a router or firewall using OpenWRT, pfSense, or OPNsense. CCNA, CCNP (Cisco), MTCNA (MikroTik), NSE 4 (Fortinet) Acts as a hands-on platform to learn about routing protocols (OSPF, BGP), firewall rules, VPN configurations, NAT, port forwarding, and IDS/IPS configurations.
High-Speed Networking Utilize its dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports for high-performance networking scenarios and link aggregation. CCNP Enterprise, CompTIA Network+, NSE 4 (Fortinet) Provides practical experience with link aggregation, network speed optimization, VLAN trunking, and traffic shaping (QoS).
Network Attached Storage (NAS) Configure the NanoPi R5S as a NAS using OpenMediaVault or Samba. CompTIA Server+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect Helps understand storage technologies, RAID configurations, NFS/SMB shares, iSCSI setup, and basic server management tasks.
IoT Gateway Set up the NanoPi R5S as an IoT gateway by connecting sensors and managing data streams using MQTT. Cisco IoT, AWS Certified IoT Developer, Azure IoT Developer Provides hands-on experience with IoT protocols, MQTT, and interfacing with various sensors and actuators through GPIO, SPI, and UART.
VPN Server Deploy a VPN server (e.g., WireGuard or OpenVPN) for secure remote access or site-to-site VPN. CCNA Security, NSE 4 (Fortinet), JNCIA-SEC (Juniper) Allows practical exposure to configuring and managing VPNs, including creating tunnels, handling encryption, and managing VPN client access.
SDN and Virtualization Use NanoPi R5S with Open vSwitch (OVS) to simulate Software-Defined Networking (SDN) environments. Cisco DevNet, Red Hat Ansible Automation, Open Networking Foundation SDN Offers a platform to experiment with SDN, virtual networking, dynamic network policies, and integration with SDN controllers like OpenDaylight or ONOS.
Home Automation Controller Run Home Assistant or OpenHAB to automate and control smart home devices. Azure IoT Developer, CompTIA IoT+ Provides a practical environment for learning smart home automation, scripting, and IoT device integration, useful for IoT-related certifications.
Penetration Testing Platform Install Kali Linux or other penetration testing tools to perform security assessments. OSCP, CEH, CompTIA Pentest+ Offers a low-cost, portable platform for running penetration testing tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, and Burp Suite.
Learning Linux Administration Run Ubuntu or Debian to practice Linux commands, scripts, and server management. Linux Foundation Certified SysAdmin (LFCS), RHCSA, CompTIA Linux+ Provides a hands-on environment for mastering Linux skills such as file management, system monitoring, user management, and network configuration.
Container and Cloud Native Use NanoPi R5S to run Docker or K3s (lightweight Kubernetes) for container orchestration. Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), Docker Certified Associate Provides a learning platform for containerization, Kubernetes deployments, orchestration of microservices, and managing a Kubernetes cluster.
Wireless Network Simulation Configure the NanoPi R5S as a Wi-Fi access point using hostapd and connect multiple clients. CWNA, CCNA Wireless, CompTIA Network+ Helps gain experience in configuring and managing wireless networks, understanding Wi-Fi security (WPA3, 802.1X), and setting up guest networks and captive portals.
Logging and Monitoring Deploy ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana) to monitor and analyze network traffic and logs. Splunk Core Certified User, Elastic Certified Engineer Provides a practical setup for learning log collection, parsing, indexing, and creating dashboards for data visualization and network monitoring.
Media Center or Thin Client Set up NanoPi R5S as a media center using Kodi or as a thin client using RDP/VNC. CompTIA A+, HTI+ (Home Technology Integration) Offers hands-on experience in setting up media servers, managing multimedia streaming, and using remote desktop protocols for thin client applications.

Role and Value of NanoPi R5S in a Home Lab

  • Multi-Purpose Device: The NanoPi R5S serves multiple roles in a home lab, from acting as a router/firewall to functioning as an IoT gateway, VPN server, NAS, or media center. Its flexibility allows it to simulate real-world scenarios that cover various aspects of networking, security, and system administration.

  • Low-Cost Training Platform: With its affordable price and diverse capabilities, the NanoPi R5S is an excellent tool for gaining practical experience with different technologies and preparing for a wide range of certifications across vendors (Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet, etc.) and domains (networking, security, IoT, Linux, SDN).

  • Hands-On Learning for Certifications: The NanoPi R5S helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills by providing a tangible, hands-on environment to practice configurations, deployments, and management tasks required for certification exams.

  • Scalable and Portable: Its small form factor and low power requirements make the NanoPi R5S portable and suitable for a dynamic lab setup. It can easily integrate with other devices, such as Raspberry Pi, MikroTik RouterBoard, and managed switches, to build a comprehensive and realistic training environment.

By using the NanoPi R5S, you can cover a broad spectrum of learning areas, allowing you to develop a versatile skill set that is applicable to real-world networking, security, and cloud environments.

Here's a comparison of different NanoPi R5S setups and pricing options to help you determine the best configuration for your home lab or project needs. The NanoPi R5S is a versatile and cost-effective development board that can function as a router, NAS, VPN server, or general-purpose computing device.

Comparison of NanoPi R5S Setups and Pricing

Setup Option Price (NOK) Inclusions Specifications Use Cases Notes
NanoPi R5S Basic Setup 809.96 NanoPi R5S board only 2GB LPDDR4X RAM, 8GB eMMC, Dual 2.5G Ethernet, 1G Ethernet, USB 3.0 x2, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD slot Suitable for basic networking tasks like routing, firewall setup, or VPN server Minimal setup, requires additional purchases (e.g., power supply, microSD card) to operate fully.
NanoPi R5S with Power Supply 945.45 NanoPi R5S board + 20W PD Power Supply Same as above Ideal for use as a home router, firewall, VPN server, or lightweight NAS Includes power supply for easy setup. Consider adding more storage (SD card, SSD) for expanded functionality.
NanoPi R5S Expanded Storage Setup Estimated ~1,100 NanoPi R5S board + 32GB eMMC + 20W PD Power Supply 2GB LPDDR4X RAM, 32GB eMMC, Dual 2.5G Ethernet, 1G Ethernet, USB 3.0 x2, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD slot Great for slightly more storage-dependent tasks, lightweight web hosting, and small file-sharing applications Additional storage expands usage options, but may still require further external storage solutions.
NanoPi R5S Advanced Setup Estimated ~1,300 NanoPi R5S board + 64GB eMMC + M.2 NVMe SSD (128GB) + PD Power Supply 2GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB eMMC, Dual 2.5G Ethernet, 1G Ethernet, USB 3.0 x2, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD slot, M.2 NVMe slot Best for more intensive applications like virtualization, larger file sharing, media server, or multiple VPNs Expands versatility; NVMe SSD ensures fast read/write speeds; suited for more demanding home lab scenarios.
NanoPi R5S Full Package Setup Estimated ~1,500 NanoPi R5S board + 64GB eMMC + M.2 NVMe SSD (256GB) + 20W PD Power Supply + USB to SATA Adapter 4GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB eMMC, Dual 2.5G Ethernet, 1G Ethernet, USB 3.0 x2, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD slot, M.2 NVMe slot Ideal for power users who want to experiment with multiple OSes, Docker, Kubernetes, or advanced networking setups Provides maximum expandability and performance; great for training labs or experimental use cases.

Key Specifications Comparison

  1. Base Model:

    • RAM: 2GB LPDDR4X
    • Storage: 8GB eMMC
    • Ethernet: Dual 2.5Gbps + 1Gbps
    • USB Ports: Two USB 3.0 Type-A ports
    • CPU: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 (up to 2.0GHz)
    • HDMI Output: HDMI 2.0 (supports 4K@60fps)

  2. Expanded Options:

    • Higher eMMC Storage: Options for 32GB or 64GB eMMC for more internal storage.
    • NVMe Support: M.2 PCIe slot for adding high-speed NVMe SSDs (128GB or 256GB options).

Recommended Setup Based on Use Cases

  • Basic Networking Tasks: The Basic Setup (809.96 NOK) is suitable for simple use cases like basic routing, VPN, and firewall duties. Good for users who already have a compatible power supply and storage.

  • Entry-Level Home Lab: The Setup with Power Supply (945.45 NOK) is a convenient starter option, especially for those setting up the board as a home router or firewall. The inclusion of the power supply makes it ready to use out of the box.

  • Enhanced Storage Needs: For more storage-focused applications like small-scale NAS, lightweight web hosting, or more extensive file-sharing services, the Expanded Storage Setup (~1,100 NOK) provides more internal storage without much additional cost.

  • Advanced Networking and Development: The Advanced Setup (~1,300 NOK) with an NVMe SSD is highly recommended for more complex tasks such as virtualization, Docker container hosting, or setting up multiple VPNs and VLANs. The fast NVMe storage enables smoother operations and faster read/write speeds.

  • Full Package Setup: The Full Package Setup (~1,500 NOK) is ideal for a comprehensive home lab scenario where you plan to experiment with various OSes, set up a mini data center, or build a private cloud. The expanded RAM, storage, and connectivity options make it suitable for the most demanding tasks.

Conclusion

The NanoPi R5S offers a range of setups from a basic networking device to a more advanced, fully-fledged home lab platform. Depending on your specific needs ā€” whether it's for entry-level network configuration, a more complex NAS or VPN solution, or a full-blown development environment ā€” the NanoPi R5S provides a versatile and cost-effective solution that can be adapted to fit your budget and use case.

The different configurations also align with preparation for various certifications (like CCNA, CCNP, MTCNA, CEH, OSCP) by offering practical, hands-on experience with real-world networking and security scenarios.

Based on the provided price details, let's break down the different options for purchasing the NanoPi R5S and its associated accessories, such as dedicated NVMe SSDs and WiFi 7 boards. This comparison will help you choose the best configuration and understand how each component adds value to your home lab or networking setup.

Breakdown of NanoPi R5S Prices and Configurations

Item Description Price (NOK, before tax) Discounts/Promotions Inclusions Use Case
NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD & WiFi7 Board 243.89 Extra 2% off with coins, NOK 9.03 off over NOK 1,053.85 NVMe SSD, WiFi7 Board MT7921K M.2, Debian OS with AX200 RTL8822CE Ideal for users who want wireless connectivity (WiFi7) and fast storage via NVMe SSD; suitable for routers, APs, and lightweight server tasks.
NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD & WiFi7 Board (Option 2) 245.40 Extra 2% off with coins, NOK 9.03 off over NOK 1,053.85 Same as above Same use case as the first option; small price difference likely due to vendor or listing variations.
NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD & WiFi7 Board (Option 3) 389.92 Extra 2% off with coins, NOK 9.03 off over NOK 1,053.85 Same as above More expensive option; may include additional accessories, longer warranty, or better after-sales support.

Detailed Analysis of Configurations

  1. NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD & WiFi7 Board (243.89 NOK and 245.40 NOK)

    • Price: 243.89 NOK and 245.40 NOK (both prices shown before tax).
    • Inclusions:
      • NVMe SSD: Provides fast storage, ideal for database hosting, file servers, and other applications that require rapid read/write speeds.
      • WiFi7 Board (MT7921K M.2): Adds WiFi 7 (802.11be) capability, ensuring high-speed wireless connectivity. This is useful for creating a wireless access point, setting up a home automation controller, or experimenting with advanced WiFi technologies.
      • Debian OS with AX200 RTL8822CE: Debian is a popular Linux distribution that supports various server and network applications, making it suitable for development, server hosting, and networking tasks.
    • Use Cases:
      • Networking Projects: Perfect for setting up an advanced router with both wired and wireless capabilities. Use it for firewalling, routing, and network monitoring.
      • WiFi Access Point: Leverage WiFi7 features to create a modern wireless access point with advanced security settings (WPA3, 802.1X).
      • Lab and Training Environment: Ideal for users preparing for networking certifications like CCNA, CCNP, and CompTIA Network+.
    • Pros:
      • Cost-Effective: These options are highly affordable and provide essential features like fast storage and advanced wireless connectivity.
      • Flexible Use Cases: Suitable for a variety of roles, from a basic router to an IoT gateway.
    • Cons:
      • Lower Price May Indicate Fewer Accessories or Limited Warranty: Depending on the vendor, you may receive fewer additional accessories or shorter warranty coverage.

  2. NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD & WiFi7 Board (389.92 NOK)

    • Price: 389.92 NOK (before tax).
    • Inclusions: Same hardware configuration as the other options (NVMe SSD, WiFi7 Board, Debian OS).
    • Use Cases: Similar to the other options, but may offer additional benefits.
    • Pros:
      • Possible Additional Accessories: Higher price may include extras like power supplies, antennas, or additional storage.
      • Potential Extended Warranty or Support: This option might come with a longer warranty period or better customer support.
    • Cons:
      • Higher Cost: More expensive than the other two options; if no extra accessories or benefits are included, it may not be the best value.

Which Option to Choose?

  • Go for the 243.89 NOK or 245.40 NOK Options:

    • These are great for most users who want a cost-effective NanoPi R5S with wireless and fast storage capabilities. Both options offer the core functionality required for a home lab or small network setup, including wired and wireless networking, storage, and a flexible operating environment with Debian OS.
    • Choose the lower price (243.89 NOK) if available, unless the slight price difference (245.40 NOK) includes any minor extras.

  • Consider the 389.92 NOK Option if You Need Additional Accessories or Support:

    • If you need more robust after-sales support, a longer warranty, or additional accessories (like a power adapter, antenna, or external storage), the higher-priced option could be worth the investment.

Conclusion

The NanoPi R5S with NVMe SSD and WiFi7 board provides excellent value for anyone looking to build a flexible, low-cost networking or server setup. The 243.89 NOK and 245.40 NOK options are the most cost-effective, while the 389.92 NOK option may be better suited for those looking for more accessories or enhanced support. Depending on your needs and budget, these configurations can support a wide range of applications, from learning networking basics to building an advanced home lab environment.

Here's a comparison between the NanoPi R1 and NanoPi R5S, focusing on the price, features, and use cases. The NanoPi R1 is a more basic, compact board designed for lightweight IoT and networking tasks, while the NanoPi R5S offers more advanced capabilities suited for higher-performance applications. This comparison will help determine which board is better for different scenarios and lab setups.

Comparison Table: NanoPi R1 vs. NanoPi R5S

Feature NanoPi R1 NanoPi R5S Relevance to Use Cases
Price (NOK, before tax) 384.66 (30% off from 549.51) + extra 2% off for 2+ pieces, 5% off with coins Starts at 809.96 to 1,500 (various configurations) NanoPi R1 is more budget-friendly for basic use cases; NanoPi R5S is costlier but offers more features for complex tasks.
Processor Allwinner H3, Quad-core Cortex-A7, up to 1.2 GHz Rockchip RK3568B2, Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55, up to 2.0 GHz NanoPi R5S has a more powerful CPU for demanding applications, while NanoPi R1 is suitable for low-power IoT projects.
RAM 512MB or 1GB DDR3 RAM 2GB or 4GB LPDDR4X RAM NanoPi R5S offers more RAM, essential for running heavier applications or multiple processes.
Storage 8GB eMMC onboard 8GB/16GB/32GB eMMC onboard, expandable with NVMe SSD NanoPi R5S provides more storage options, including faster NVMe SSDs, making it better for NAS or database hosting.
Ethernet Ports 2x Ethernet Ports (10/100 Mbps) 1x 1Gbps + 2x 2.5Gbps Ethernet Ports NanoPi R5S supports higher-speed Ethernet (up to 2.5Gbps), suitable for high-bandwidth networking tasks.
USB Ports 2x USB 2.0 Ports 2x USB 3.0 Ports NanoPi R5Sā€™s USB 3.0 ports offer higher data transfer speeds, essential for external storage or high-speed peripherals.
Wireless Connectivity WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 Optional WiFi7 (802.11be) via M.2 expansion NanoPi R5S can support the latest WiFi standards (WiFi7) with the right expansion, offering better wireless performance.
Operating System Supports Ubuntu Core, OpenWRT Supports Debian, Ubuntu, OpenWRT, FriendlyWrt Both support popular Linux distros, but NanoPi R5S can handle more resource-intensive OS environments.
Size and Form Factor 60mm x 50.5mm 94.5mm x 68mm x 30mm NanoPi R1 is smaller, ideal for compact, space-limited installations.
Power Supply MicroUSB for power (5V/2A) USB Type-C PD (5V/9V/12V) NanoPi R5S supports USB-C PD, which allows for more stable power delivery, especially for higher performance use cases.
Special Features Dual Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth, onboard eMMC, Serial Ports for IoT NVMe SSD support, Dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0 NanoPi R1 has a good IoT feature set, while NanoPi R5S has enhanced capabilities for diverse use cases.
Use Case Suitability IoT Gateway, Small Firewall/Router, Basic Network Appliance Advanced Router, Firewall, NAS, VPN Server, IoT Hub, Mini Server NanoPi R1 is ideal for lightweight, low-cost applications, while NanoPi R5S can handle more complex, data-intensive roles.
Case and Build Compact metal case included Available with or without a metal case NanoPi R1ā€™s compact metal case is suitable for embedding in tight spaces.
GPIO and Expansion Options Limited GPIO for simple IoT devices M.2 PCIe slot, additional USB ports, better expansion flexibility NanoPi R5S offers more expansion options for advanced networking or storage needs.

Recommended Use Cases for Each Board

  1. NanoPi R1: Best for Low-Cost, Compact IoT and Networking Projects

    • IoT Gateway: Use the NanoPi R1 to connect IoT devices using its dual Ethernet ports, onboard WiFi, and Bluetooth. The GPIO pins allow simple sensor integration.
    • Small Firewall/Router: Deploy OpenWRT to turn NanoPi R1 into a basic firewall or router, ideal for home or small office networks with lower bandwidth requirements.
    • Simple Network Appliance: Perfect for lightweight tasks such as a basic network monitoring node, small DNS/DHCP server, or captive portal for guest WiFi.
    • Low-Power Applications: Ideal for scenarios where power efficiency and compact size are crucial, such as remote IoT deployments or low-power network utilities.

  2. NanoPi R5S: Best for Advanced Networking and Higher Performance Use Cases

    • Advanced Router/Firewall: Use NanoPi R5S with OpenWRT or pfSense to handle higher-speed internet connections, multiple VLANs, VPN tunnels, and more complex routing scenarios.
    • Network Attached Storage (NAS): With its NVMe SSD support and multiple USB 3.0 ports, NanoPi R5S can function as a small-scale NAS or media server.
    • VPN Server: Set up WireGuard or OpenVPN on NanoPi R5S to create a secure VPN server capable of handling higher throughput and more concurrent users.
    • Mini Data Center or Lab Environment: Ideal for a learning environment to practice virtualization, network automation, and software-defined networking (SDN) scenarios.
    • Home Automation Controller: Run Home Assistant or OpenHAB to control smart devices and manage home automation setups, leveraging its higher processing power and connectivity options.

Conclusion

  • Choose NanoPi R1 if you're looking for a cost-effective, compact solution for basic IoT projects, simple networking tasks, or low-power use cases. It's an excellent choice for entry-level users or those who need a small form factor device with dual Ethernet and WiFi capabilities.

  • Choose NanoPi R5S if you need more processing power, RAM, faster Ethernet ports, and expandable storage. It is a versatile device for more advanced networking tasks, such as a router, NAS, VPN server, or small home lab environment to practice various networking and security skills. The NanoPi R5S provides a broader range of use cases and more robust features, making it suitable for professional training or certification preparation.