Introduction
Introducing the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance: A Powerful Solution for Network Security
When it comes to network security, having a reliable and efficient firewall is crucial. The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance is a top-notch option that offers impressive performance and a wide range of features. With its robust Intel 10th Generation Gemini Lake J4125 Quad-Core Processor and 4 Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 LANs, it guarantees exceptional speed and connectivity.
A Sturdy Build and Intelligent Design
One of the standout qualities of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance is its solid build. The full aluminum alloy shell not only enhances the product’s durability but also helps dissipate heat effectively. This eliminates the need for cooling fans, making it a fanless system that operates silently, perfect for industrial-grade environments.
Unparalleled Flexibility and Expandability
Equipped with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance delivers exceptional memory and storage capabilities. Furthermore, its compatibility with pfSense, untangle, opnsense, and other popular open-source software solutions allows for unparalleled flexibility in your network setup.
Customer Reviews Showcase the Product’s Versatility
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance has received positive feedback from satisfied customers. One user commends its exceptional build quality and highly configurable BIOS. Although they mention a minor issue with the compatibility of pfSense, it is easily resolved by installing the 2.7.0 dev daily snapshot. Another reviewer highlights the competitive pricing they were able to secure, as well as the speedy delivery of the product. They also mention the ability to use Linux to fully utilize all 6 NICs for a multi-gig speed home network.
With its reliable performance, extensive connectivity options, and excellent customer reviews, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance proves to be a valuable asset for anyone in need of a robust network security solution.
Product Design and Construction
Quality Build
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance boasts a robust and high-quality build that ensures durability and reliable performance. Encased in a full aluminum alloy shell, this micro appliance provides excellent heat dissipation while maintaining an exquisite appearance. With its industrial-grade field suitability, this appliance can operate 24/7 without any cooling fan or noise disruptions.
Customers who have purchased this product have praised its solid construction, indicating its suitability for long-term use. One reviewer states, “This machine is built really well,” highlighting the sturdy build of the device. The aluminum alloy shell not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures a sturdy and durable structure.
Configurable BIOS
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance offers a highly configurable BIOS, allowing users to customize their settings based on their specific requirements. This feature provides flexibility and adaptability to meet various networking needs.
Reviewers have appreciated the device’s configurable BIOS, emphasizing its usefulness in tailoring the appliance to their desired specifications. One customer mentions, “Very configurable BIOS,” indicating that users can easily modify settings to optimize the appliance’s performance.
The availability of an M.2 slot and an additional DDR4 RAM slot further enhances the device’s expandability. These features enable users to easily upgrade the device’s memory and storage capacity as needed, ensuring scalability and future-proofing.
the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance stands out for its quality construction and versatile BIOS configuration options. Whether used for firewall, VPN, network server, or network security purposes, this appliance offers a reliable and customizable solution for various networking needs.
Compatibility with Software Solutions
Issues with pfSense Compatibility
While the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance offers a range of impressive features and capabilities, there have been some reported compatibility issues with the popular open-source software solution, pfSense. One user mentioned in their review that the appliance was labeled as being compatible with pfSense, but it was not compatible with the current stable release, version 2.6.0. However, they were able to resolve this issue by downloading the 2.7.0 dev daily snapshot.
Works well with OPNsense
On the other hand, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance has shown great compatibility with OPNsense. A user mentioned in their review that they were able to successfully use the appliance with version 23.1 of OPNsense. They praised the machine for its build quality and highly configurable BIOS.
It is important to note that all hardware of this micro appliance has been tested with various open-source software solutions including pfSense, untangle, and OPNsense. While compatibility issues may arise with certain versions of different software, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance provides a versatile platform that supports firewall, VPN, network server, network security, routers, AES-NI, ESXI, PVE, Watchdog, Auto power on, RTC, PXE boot, and Wake-on-LAN functionalities.
the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance proves to be a reliable and versatile option for users seeking a compact and powerful solution for their networking needs.
Expandability and Hardware Features
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance offers excellent expandability and hardware features, making it a versatile and powerful option for users. With an additional M.2 slot and RAM slot, this appliance can easily be upgraded to meet the specific needs of different applications.
Additional M.2 Slot
One of the standout features of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance is its additional M.2 slot. This slot allows users to add an M.2 SSD for increased storage capacity and faster data transfer speeds. Whether you need more space for storing files or want to optimize performance, the extra M.2 slot provides the flexibility to customize the appliance to your requirements.
RAM Slot
In addition to the M.2 slot, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance also includes an extra DDR4 RAM slot. This allows users to expand the appliance’s memory capacity for improved multitasking and overall performance. With the ability to support up to 32GB of RAM, you can ensure that your firewall appliance can handle the demands of your network effectively.
These expandability options make the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance a future-proof investment, as you can easily upgrade it to adapt to changing needs. Whether you require additional storage or more memory for running multiple applications simultaneously, this appliance offers the flexibility to expand and enhance its capabilities.
the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance stands out for its expandability and hardware features. With the additional M.2 slot and RAM slot, users have the freedom to customize and upgrade the appliance to meet their specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance and suitability for a variety of applications.
Pricing and Delivery
Observations on Price Fluctuations
When it comes to purchasing a micro firewall appliance like the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance, it is worth keeping an eye on the pricing over a period of time. Some customers have reported getting lucky and snagging a unit at a significantly reduced price compared to the listed price. This allows them to enjoy the benefits of this powerful appliance while saving some money.
Quick Delivery and Open Box Purchase
One aspect that pleasantly surprised customers is the quick delivery of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance. Despite the expected shipping time of 4-6 weeks, many customers received their units within just 3 days of placing the order. This speedy delivery indicates that the unit was likely already in the country, available for immediate shipment. However, some customers noted that their unit might have been an “open box” resale rather than brand new due to a power cord mismatch. The seller promptly addressed this issue and offered to provide a replacement power cord.
Additionally, customers have found the device to be well-built with a highly configurable BIOS. However, there have been a few compatibility issues reported. For instance, although labeled as compatible with pfSense, the appliance did not work with the current stable release, 2.6.0. Customers had to download the 2.7.0 dev daily snapshot for it to detect the network devices. On the other hand, Opensense worked fine with v23.1. Nevertheless, with an available M.2 slot and an extra DDR4 RAM slot, the appliance proves to be easy to expand and customize.
the pricing and delivery experience has been positive, with customers benefiting from good deals and prompt delivery to set up their powerful Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance.
Comparison of OS Functionality
Linux vs BSD – NIC Functionality
When it comes to choosing an operating system (OS) for the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance, users have the option of selecting either Linux or BSD. Each OS has its own advantages and considerations, particularly in terms of NIC functionality.
Linux: Some users have reported that Linux offers excellent functionality for the NICs on the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance. Specifically, Linux allows all six NICs to function as tagged VLAN trunk ports. This means that users have the flexibility to utilize all ports as part of their multi-gig speed home network, making it an ideal choice for those who require extensive network configurations.
BSD (OPNsense and pfSense): On the other hand, BSD-based operating systems such as OPNsense and pfSense do not allow the bridging of non-physical ports. As a result, only one port can be designated as a VLAN trunk, rendering the remaining ports useless if re-flashing the system with BSD-based OS is necessary. It is worth noting that users have successfully used OPNsense v23.1 on the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance, while others have encountered compatibility issues with pfSense 2.6.0, the current stable release.
Ultimately, the choice between Linux and BSD depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user. While Linux provides more flexibility for network configurations, BSD-based OS may be suitable for those who prioritize stability and specific software compatibility. We recommend users to thoroughly research and consider their networking needs before making a decision on the operating system for their Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Our review of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance uncovered several positive aspects of this product, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile mini PC firewall solution.
Well-Built Machine
The first notable advantage is the solid construction of this appliance. The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance features a full aluminum alloy high-quality shell, providing excellent heat dissipation and an exquisite appearance.
Users will appreciate the highly configurable BIOS of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance. Its extensive settings allow for customization and optimization according to specific needs and preferences.
Expansion Options
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance offers impressive expansion capabilities. With an available m.2 slot and an extra DDR4 RAM slot, it is easily expandable to meet evolving requirements.
Quick Shipping and Responsive Customer Support
Customers have reported fast shipping times and responsive customer support when purchasing the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance. This ensures a smooth buying experience and prompt resolution of any issues encountered.
Cons
While the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance boasts several advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider before making a purchase.
Limited Compatibility with pfSense
One customer reported that the appliance is not compatible with the 2.6.0 version of pfSense, which is the current stable release. Instead, it requires the 2.7.0 dev daily snapshot to detect network devices. However, alternative open-source software solutions like OPNsense work smoothly with this appliance.
Limitations of BSD Operating System
Another limitation is related to the BSD operating system used by OPNsense and pfSense. It does not allow bridging of non-physical ports, restricting the utilization of all six NICs as tagged VLAN trunk ports. This limitation may impact users who require multiple VLAN trunks.
Despite these few drawbacks, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance offers exceptional value for its price and provides a solid networking solution for various applications.
Conclusion
A Reliable and Versatile Micro Appliance
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance has proven itself to be a reliable and versatile device that offers a wide range of features for network security and management. With its Intel 10 Generation Gemini Lake J4125 Quad-Core Processor and AES-NI hardware support, this mini PC offers powerful performance and encryption capabilities.
Impressive Build Quality and Configuration Options
One of the standout features of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance is its high-quality build. The full aluminum alloy solid shell not only ensures excellent heat dissipation but also adds to the overall durability of the device. Its fanless system eliminates any potential noise and makes it suitable for industrial-grade use, even in environments that require continuous operation.
Compatibility and Application
The Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance is compatible with popular open-source software solutions such as pfSense, untangle, and opnsense. This flexibility allows users to choose the software that best suits their needs, whether it’s for firewall, VPN, network server, or network security applications. With advanced features like AES-NI, ESXI, PVE, Watchdog, Auto power on, RTC, PXE boot, and Wake-on-LAN, this micro appliance offers a comprehensive set of tools for network management.
User Reviews
The positive reception from users further validates the efficacy of the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance. One user praises its performance as a backup OPNsense box and as a Layer 7 switch and IoT network monitoring box. Another user mentions the solid construction and highly configurable BIOS. Although there are some compatibility issues with certain software versions, it is commendable that the manufacturer provides support for the latest updates and offers expandability options.
Overall, the Kikusenko Firewall Micro Appliance exceeds expectations with its reliable performance, versatile features, and rugged build quality. Whether used in a home network or an industrial setting, this micro appliance proves to be a dependable solution for network security and management needs.
