LuCI is the web interface for OpenWrt, a popular open-source router operating system. It provides a user-friendly interface for configuring and managing OpenWrt-based devices, making it easier for users to control their network settings and device functionality.

Pros

• User-friendly interface for managing OpenWrt devices
• Modular architecture allowing for easy customization and extension
• Supports multiple languages for internationalization
• Active development and community support

Cons

• Can be resource-intensive on low-end devices
• Learning curve for developers to create custom modules
• Some advanced features may require command-line interaction
• Occasional compatibility issues with certain OpenWrt versions

Code Examples

1. Creating a simple LuCI page:

module("luci.controller.mymodule.mycontroller", package.seeall)

function index()
    entry({"admin", "mymodule", "mypage"}, template("mymodule/mypage"), "My Page", 60)
end

This code creates a new page in the LuCI interface under the "admin" section.

2. Defining a CBI model for configuration:

m = Map("myconfig", "My Configuration")
s = m:section(TypedSection, "mysection", "My Section")
s:option(Value, "myoption", "My Option")
return m

This code defines a configuration model for a custom module, creating a section with an input field.

3. Creating a custom action:

function action_myaction()
    local result = luci.sys.exec("some_command")
    luci.http.write_json({ output = result })
end

This code defines a custom action that executes a system command and returns the result as JSON.

Getting Started

To start developing with LuCI:

1. Set up an OpenWrt development environment
2. Clone the LuCI repository:

   git clone https://github.com/openwrt/luci.git
   

3. Create a new module in the applications directory
4. Implement your controller, model, and view files
5. Build and install your module on an OpenWrt device
6. Access your new module through the LuCI web interface

For more detailed instructions, refer to the LuCI development documentation on the OpenWrt wiki.