pfSense equipment options available.
pfSense equipment options available.
You're weighing options for your pfSense setup. Consider the fiber connection and the 300Mbps download speed for Network 1. Netgate is known to support pfSense, while Protectli offers better value for the same budget. Think about what you need most for each network.
Filtering demands significant energy and exceeds my understanding. Consider reaching out to level1techs or lawrence systems forums—they’re experts in this area. Those communities likely have the insights most users need.
Pre-built third-party firewall devices offer better power efficiency, though upgrade options may be restricted. Repurposing an SFF PC lets you upgrade more units but could mean lower efficiency. In either scenario, sufficient CPU power enables running applications beyond pfSense/OPNSense. While I’m confident Netgate hardware performs well in its target market, you’ll likely incur higher costs. If I chose Netgate gear, I’d probably deploy them at customer locations since others fund the purchase—just a firewall with direct support from Netgate. Explore ServeTheHome for firewall reviews. Other options exist with better specs for additional tasks.
FYI, I use PFSense as a virtual machine in my lab, but I’ve suggested Netgate devices to friends (two own) and installed them at relatives’ homes. Since I don’t require much computing power from them, it’s worth the slight cost increase for the simpler support options offered by Netgate products.
I opted for a dual NIC NUC which remains relatively power-efficient, receives routine updates (BIOS), and allows seamless installation of any software. When PFSense faced licensing issues, I smoothly switched to OPNsense. The NUC is slightly more expensive than typical mini PCs, which is a minor drawback. Still, with consistent updates and a reliable power supply, it seemed justified. A common concern about NUCs is their cooling performance—be mindful in dusty conditions. Overall, I’m satisfied and would choose this again.
It was a huge oversight with the NUC setup. These devices aren’t meant to be easily maintained—you usually have to take them apart completely, which eventually leads to damage due to their construction. A passive router would be better for me; I definitely don’t want any interruptions. Running it in a VM isn’t something I’d consider either.
I've just been pushing air backward to clear out the debris. As long as the temperatures remain stable, that should work.
It's not feasible to use blower fans because the fin design would obstruct reverse airflow. On Intel NUCs, the airflow system is complex—air is drawn from the sides of the PCB—so even if installed, it might get stuck inside the case. My mother’s fan stopped working after about six months, though it had been used but in good shape when she bought it during the lockdown and I purchased it once things reopened. The interior remained clean and dust-free when I first got it.