Fix Free Space Not Showing After Removing Packages in OpenWrt

Published On - August 25, 2025

ivan Blogging

So, you just removed a few packages from your OpenWrt router. You expected to see more free space, right? But when you check the storage, it still looks full. What gives?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This issue confuses many OpenWrt users. But the good news is — it’s not broken. It’s just a bit tricky to understand. Let’s break it down in a fun and simple way!

Why Doesn’t Free Space Go Up?

OpenWrt uses a special kind of filesystem called overlayfs. It layers changes like a cake. Think of it like a frosted birthday cake:

  • The cake bottom is the read-only firmware (called SquashFS).
  • The frosting on top is the writable overlay.

When you install a new package, it goes on the frosting (overlay). That uses your storage.

But when you remove the package? It doesn’t scrape off the frosting. It just places a little “no more cake here” note on top!

This means the actual file from the bottom cake layer is hidden, but still there. The note (called a “whiteout”) takes space too. So, even though the package looks gone, its files still take up some room.

Okay… So How Do I Really Free Up Space?

Great question! There are a few ways to really get that space back. Here’s how:

1. Reflash Without the Extra Packages

This is the cleanest method. Instead of removing the packages manually, build or download a custom OpenWrt image without them in the first place.

This way, they were never installed, and your overlay stays light and clean.

Steps:

  • Go to the OpenWrt Firmware Selector.
  • Select your device.
  • Customize the packages.
  • Remove what you don’t need.
  • Download and flash.

Bonus tip: Use the ImageBuilder if you’re a bit more advanced. It’s like building your own Lego set!

2. Format and Reset — the Nuclear Option

If you’re okay with starting fresh, you can do a full reset. This wipes everything on the overlay. Think of it like cleaning the whole frosting off your cake. Yum and tidy.

To do it:

  • SSH into your router.
  • Run: firstboot
  • Then: reboot

And poof! Your space is back. But remember: this will erase all configurations too. Back up first if needed!

3. Check for Big Files & Logs

Sometimes, it’s not packages that are the problem. It’s log files or random downloads eating your space.

Run:

du -h /overlay

Look for anything suspiciously large and delete carefully!

Extra Tips

  • Use opkg list-installed to see what’s on your router.
  • Avoid installing big packages like GUI apps unless needed.
  • Lightweight routers need lightweight setups!

Also, here’s a neat trick: Use df -h before and after installing or removing to keep track of space.

Still Not Enough Space?

If you’re constantly fighting for space, it might be time to:

  • Add external storage (USB stick, SD card).
  • Use OverlayFS on external storage. Search for “OpenWrt extroot.”
  • Or upgrade to a router with more flash memory. Treat yourself!

Wrap Up

That disappearing free space isn’t a bug. It’s just the overlay filesystem being a bit sneaky. But now, you’ve got the knowledge (and the cake metaphor) to handle it like a pro!

Whether you wipe it clean or build a lean setup from scratch, your OpenWrt router will thank you with more space and better speed.

Happy routing!