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USB Ethernet Gadget Setup

This guide explains how to set up a USB Ethernet Gadget (g_ether) to connect a Raspberry Pi via USB and enable SSH access from a PC.

1. Raspberry Pi Setup

1.1 Enable OTG Function

Edit /boot/firmware/config.txt to enable OTG function. 

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sudo nano /boot/firmware/config.txt
Add the following line: 
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dtoverlay=dwc2
Save and exit (Ctrl + X → Y → Enter).

1.2 Load Kernel Modules

Edit /boot/firmware/cmdline.txt to load dwc2 and g_ether. 

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sudo nano /boot/firmware/cmdline.txt
Add the following after rootwait: 
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modules-load=dwc2,g_ether
Note: Ensure it remains on a single line. Save and exit (Ctrl + X → Y → Enter).

1.3 Network Configuration

Set a static IP for the usb0 interface on the Raspberry Pi (optional). 

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sudo nano /etc/dhcpcd.conf
Add the following: 
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2
interface usb0
static ip_address=192.168.7.2/24

1.4 Reboot

Reboot the Raspberry Pi to apply the changes. 

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sudo reboot

2. PC Setup

2.1 Verify Network Interface After USB Connection

Connect the Raspberry Pi to the PC via USB and check the interfaces. 

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ip a
Ensure usb0 appears in the list.

2.2 Set IP on PC (Linux)

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sudo ip addr add 192.168.7.1/24 dev usb0
sudo ip link set usb0 up

For Windows: Open ncpa.cpl, locate the usb0 adapter, and manually assign 192.168.7.1/24.

3. SSH Connection

Connect to the Raspberry Pi via SSH from the PC. 

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ssh pi@192.168.7.2
Or, if Bonjour (Avahi) is enabled: 
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ssh pi@raspberrypi.local

✅ Summary

  • Enabled g_ether to establish a virtual network over USB.
  • Configured usb0 on the PC with a static IP to enable SSH access.
  • No serial connection needed! Just a USB cable for SSH! 🎉