About
About Sakis3g
What is Sakis3g?
Sakis3g is a script that creates an Internet connection using 3G modems. It works with most USB and Bluetooth modems and can be operated through a graphical user interface or directly from the command line.
The script is frequently used in devices such as Raspberry Pi and BeagleBone Black, where it provides a straightforward way to bring mobile broadband connectivity to embedded Linux projects.
Instructions for Sakis3g work on most Linux distributions. The only prerequisite is the ppp package, which must be installed before running the script.
Key capabilities
USB & Bluetooth
Compatible with most USB and Bluetooth 3G modems, covering a wide range of hardware.
GUI & CLI
Run interactively with ./sakis3g --interactive or script it entirely from the command line.
Embedded ready
Lightweight enough for Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone Black, and other single-board Linux devices.
Getting started
Make sure the ppp package is installed on your system, then download the Sakis3g package, unzip it, and make it executable. Launch the interactive mode to configure your modem and APN settings.
Sakis3g is a lightweight script designed to bring Internet connectivity to Linux systems through 3G modems. It supports both USB and Bluetooth modems, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of hardware. The script can be run in two distinct modes: an interactive graphical interface that guides users through connection setup, or a command-line mode for advanced users who prefer automation and scripting. Its simplicity is one of its greatest strengths. Rather than requiring complex configuration files or deep networking knowledge, Sakis3g presents users with clear options for selecting their modem, choosing an access point, and entering credentials. This approach makes mobile broadband accessible even on minimal Linux installations where traditional network managers may be unavailable or impractical.
The script handles many of the underlying technical details that often complicate 3G connections on Linux. It can manage modem mode switching, which is necessary when a 3G modem initially presents itself as a CD-ROM device rather than a network interface. Sakis3g also coordinates with tools like wvdial and ppp to establish and maintain the connection. If the connection drops unexpectedly, the script can detect the failure and attempt to restore it automatically. This resilience is especially valuable in remote or unattended deployments where manual intervention is not feasible. Users can also fine-tune settings such as the APN, username, and password if the predefined options do not match their carrier's requirements, ensuring broad compatibility across different mobile networks and regions.
Sakis3g has found a natural home on single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi and BeagleBone Black. These devices are often deployed in locations where wired or Wi-Fi Internet is unavailable, making cellular connectivity the only practical option. The script's small footprint and lack of dependency on a desktop environment make it ideal for headless or resource-constrained systems. A typical setup involves downloading the script, making it executable, and running it from the terminal. No heavy package installations or graphical sessions are required. This efficiency has made Sakis3g a popular choice for embedded projects, remote monitoring stations, portable networking devices, and other scenarios where reliable 3G connectivity must be established quickly and with minimal overhead.
The Sakis3g project is maintained through community contributions and discussions. Users frequently share their experiences, troubleshooting tips, and configuration examples, which helps others resolve common issues such as modem detection failures or incorrect port settings. The script is distributed as a single downloadable archive suitable for multiple architectures including i386, amd64, and ARM variants, ensuring compatibility across diverse Linux distributions. While the tool is designed to work out of the box, users are encouraged to check that their modem is properly recognized and that necessary system tools are installed. The ongoing development of Sakis3g reflects a commitment to keeping older hardware useful and to providing a straightforward, no-frills solution for 3G Internet access on Linux.