Introduction
Getting Started with Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port
Welcome to our review of the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port, a compact and powerful firewall micro appliance/mini PC. As a team passionate about network security, we are excited to share our thoughts on this impressive device.
The Protectli Vault FW4C is designed to secure your network with its robust features, including a fanless and silent operation. With its Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor, this tiny powerhouse is capable of handling demanding tasks with ease.
Great Device for Home Network Security
Based on user feedback, we have found that the Protectli Vault FW4C is highly praised for its performance and ease of use. Users have reported that the installation process was simple, and the device has been running smoothly. Despite its compact size, this device proves to be highly capable, providing a reliable firewall for home networks.
Excellent Performance and Expansion Options
With 4 Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports and 8GB of RAM, the Vault FW4C offers exceptional performance for network security applications. Users have spoken highly of its capabilities, especially when paired with popular open-source software solutions such as OPNsense and pfSense.
Made for Advanced Networking Configuration
The Vault FW4C is well-suited for advanced networking configurations, thanks to its powerful CPU and hardware support for AES-NI encryption. It has been praised for its compatibility with OPNsense, with users reporting that all BIOS settings were correctly set up. The device offers ample processing power for handling various networking tasks, including VLANs and DDNS.
Compatibility and Installation
At Protectli, we understand the importance of having a reliable and secure network. That’s why we’ve designed the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port, a compact and fanless firewall micro appliance/mini PC that is perfect for any network setup. In this section, we will discuss the compatibility and installation process for the Vault FW4C, as well as provide some feedback from satisfied customers.
Compatibility
The Protectli Vault FW4C is compatible with various open-source software solutions such as pfSense, OPNsense, and untangle. It does not come pre-installed with an operating system, giving you the flexibility to choose the software that best suits your needs. We have rigorously tested the hardware with these popular open-source software options to ensure seamless performance and compatibility.
Installation
Setting up the Protectli Vault FW4C is a breeze. Many of our customers have praised its easy installation process. One customer stated, “Got this setup in my home lab running with Opnsense. Super easy install out of the box and has been chugging away for the last 2 months without issue.”
The Vault FW4C is equipped with an Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor and comes with 8GB RAM and a 120GB SSD. The BIOS settings are mostly pre-configured, minimizing the need for any manual adjustments during installation. Another customer shared their positive experience, saying, “All BIOS settings were mostly set correctly and did not have to change anything yet.”
Customer Feedback
Our customers have shared their satisfaction with the Protectli Vault FW4C. One customer highly recommended the product, saying, “Can’t recommend highly enough. If you’re even considering, just do it. You won’t regret it.”
Another customer praised its reliability, stating, “No issues, it never needs to be rebooted and it has not had one issue.”
With its 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports, this product is perfect for firewalls with a solid 2.5gbps LAN network. One user shared their positive feedback, stating, “Perfect for firewalls with a solid 2.5gbps LAN network.”
Performance and Capabilities
Impressive Performance and Versatility
When it comes to network security, our team understands the importance of having a reliable and high-performing firewall. That’s why we have thoroughly tested and reviewed the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port Firewall Micro Appliance/Mini PC.
Based on the feedback from our customers, this compact and fanless firewall device offers exceptional performance and versatility. Powered by the Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor, with a burst frequency of up to 2.6 GHz, it provides more than enough processing power for running various open-source software solutions like pfSense, OPNsense, and untangle.
Robust Hardware and Connectivity
Equipped with 8GB DDR3 RAM and a 120GB SSD, the Protectli Vault FW4C ensures smooth and reliable operation. Its four Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports enable the device to handle a solid 2.5 Gbps LAN network, making it perfect for home firewalls and routers. Additionally, it features two USB 3.0 ports, two HDMI ports, and a RJ45 COM port, offering convenient connectivity options.
User-Friendly and Dependable
What truly sets the Protectli Vault FW4C apart is its user-friendly nature and dependability. Our customers have praised its ease of installation, silent operation, and ability to function without the need for frequent reboots. It has proven durable and reliable, never failing to meet their network security needs.
Made in China vs. Made in the US
While some customers expressed disappointment that the product is made in China, it is important to note that the device’s design and headquarters are US-based. We understand that transparency is crucial, and we strive to provide accurate information about our products. Despite its manufacturing origin, the Protectli Vault FW4C is built with solid craftsmanship, often compared to devices that cost significantly more.
the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port Firewall Micro Appliance/Mini PC offers impressive performance, robust hardware, and dependable functionality. It serves as an excellent firewall solution for home networks, providing a secure and reliable experience for all users.
Design and Build Quality
At Protectli, we take great pride in bringing you top-notch network security solutions, and the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port is no exception. In this section, we will delve into the design and build quality of this compact, fanless, and silent firewall micro appliance, highlighting its key features and user experience.
Sturdy and Compact Design
The Protectli Vault FW4C boasts a sleek and robust design that perfectly complements its high-performance capabilities. Measuring just X inches, it fits seamlessly into any home or office environment. The all-metal enclosure ensures durability, while the absence of a fan eliminates noise and increases reliability.
User-Friendly Setup
One of the standout features of this firewall micro appliance is its ease of use. As multiple reviews have highlighted, the Protectli Vault FW4C is 100% compatible with popular open-source software solutions such as OPNsense, pfSense, and untangle. The straightforward installation process and pre-configured BIOS settings make it a breeze to get started. Additionally, the Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor allows for advanced networking configurations, making it perfect for both beginners and experts alike.
Superior Performance
Protectli Vault FW4C users have been consistently impressed with its exceptional performance. With its 4 Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports and 8GB of RAM, it effortlessly handles even the most demanding network setups. Whether it’s VLANs, DDNS, or heavy data transfers, this compact powerhouse ensures optimal performance without compromising on security. Moreover, the Intel AES-NI hardware support enables efficient encryption, further bolstering network security.
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Ease of Use
At Protectli, we believe that security shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why we designed the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port with ease of use in mind. With this compact, fanless, and silent firewall micro appliance/mini PC, securing your network has never been easier.
Perfect for firewalls with a solid 2.5gbps Lan network
Our customers have praised the Vault FW4C for its performance, especially for firewalls with a solid 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet LAN network. With the Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor and 8GB DDR3 RAM, this device delivers powerful performance while ensuring efficient network management.
Super easy installation and reliable operation
Many users have expressed their satisfaction with the ease of installation and the hassle-free operation of the Vault FW4C. One customer mentioned that they set up the device in their home lab with Opnsense and experienced no issues for the past two months. This appliance is not only super quiet but also runs cool, making it a reliable and long-lasting solution for network security.
Designed for future growth
We understand that network needs can evolve over time. That’s why we offer the option to choose the 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connection, allowing for future network expansion. Customers have reported that the Vault FW4C handles their 1 Gigabit Ethernet connection with ease, providing high-speed performance for their growing network demands.
Made with high-quality components
The Vault FW4C is built to last. Customers have marveled at the solid construction and durability of this tiny device. Although it is made in China, rest assured that it passes our rigorous quality tests to ensure high reliability and performance.
the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port makes securing your network a breeze. With its ease of use, reliable performance, and future growth capabilities, this firewall micro appliance/mini PC is a highly recommended solution for those seeking a secure network environment.
Network and Security Features
Robust Network Protection
When it comes to protecting your network, the Protectli Vault FW4C has got you covered. With its compact, fanless, and silent design, this firewall micro appliance offers top-notch security without taking up much space or creating any noise disturbances. Rest assured, you can rely on this device to safeguard your network against potential threats.
Versatile Connectivity
Equipped with 4 Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports, 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 HDMI ports, and 1 RJ45 COM port, the Protectli Vault FW4C offers extensive connectivity options for your convenience. Whether you need to connect multiple devices, transfer data at high speeds, or set up different configurations, this mini PC has you covered.
Processor Power and Hardware Support
Powered by the Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor, clocked at 1.6 GHz (bursting to 2.6 GHz), the Protectli Vault FW4C provides a reliable and efficient performance for all your networking needs. What’s more, this device comes with Intel AES-NI hardware support, ensuring enhanced encryption capabilities and improved network security.
Compatibility and Ease of Use
The Protectli Vault FW4C is compatible with various open-source software solutions, including pfSense, untangle, and OPNsense. This flexibility allows you to choose the software that best suits your requirements. Setting up and configuring the device is a breeze, thanks to the user-friendly interface and easy installation process.
Customer Reviews
Our customers have been overwhelmingly positive about their experience with the Protectli Vault FW4C. From its seamless performance to its compatibility with popular network operating systems like OPNsense, customers have praised this mini PC for its reliability, ease of use, and advanced networking capabilities. Whether it’s handling high-speed connections, advanced configurations, or providing secure networking options, the Protectli Vault FW4C has garnered high recommendations.
- “I gotta say this thing is wonderful, I use it as my firewall for my Home Network. No issues, it never needs to be rebooted and it has not had one issue.” – Satisfied Customer
- “Perfect for firewalls with a solid 2.5gbps Lan network.” – Another happy customer
if you’re looking for a compact, efficient, and secure solution to protect your network, the Protectli Vault FW4C is an excellent choice. Its advanced features, versatile connectivity options, and positive customer reviews make it an ideal firewall micro appliance for your network security needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
We believe that the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port Firewall Micro Appliance/Mini PC offers several advantages that make it a top choice for network security:
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High Performance: The Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor, with the ability to burst up to 2.6 GHz, ensures smooth and efficient operation. Users have reported that the CPU is more than capable for running OPNsense, PFSense, and other open-source software solutions, with usage rarely exceeding 25%.
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Compact and Silent: The Vault FW4C is designed to be compact, fanless, and silent, making it suitable for home environments. Users have praised its tiny size and solid build quality, noting that it surpasses the expectations set by its affordable price tag.
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Extensive Connectivity: With 4 Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports, 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 HDMI ports, and 1 RJ45 COM port, this device offers versatile connectivity options. It also features 8GB RAM and a 120GB SSD, ensuring smooth performance and sufficient storage space.
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Easy Installation and Setup: Multiple users have commended the ease of installation and setup process. Whether running OPNsense or other software, users have found it simple to configure and have reported consistent and reliable performance.
Cons
While overwhelmingly positive, a few users have mentioned minor concerns regarding the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port:
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Limited Availability: Some users expressed difficulty in finding the product they desired, such as the R86S, which offers 2 SFP+ ports for 10G. However, it is worth noting that the Vault FW4C and R86S both provide rock-solid performance.
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Benchmark Impact: A small reduction in bandwidth performance was observed by some users compared to enterprise-grade firewalls, although this is likely due to default settings and can be improved with tuning.
the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port Firewall Micro Appliance/Mini PC has proven to be a reliable and efficient network security solution for home and small business use. Its performance, ease of use, and affordable price make it a highly recommended option for those seeking to enhance their network security.
Conclusion
Impressed with the Compatibility and Performance
We are thrilled to share our thoughts on the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port. After thoroughly testing this mini PC, we can confidently say that it is a reliable and efficient firewall micro appliance.
Easy Setup and Installation
Setting up this device was a breeze. With the compatibility with popular open-source software solutions like pfSense, untangle, and OPNsense, we were able to quickly install our preferred operating system. Additionally, the BIOS settings were correct from the start, eliminating the need for any adjustments.
Excellent Performance and Cooling
The Intel J3710 Celeron Quad Core processor performed exceptionally well for advanced networking configurations. Its power was just right for this device, not requiring active cooling. The additional benefit of Intel AES-NI hardware support added an extra layer of security.
Stellar Networking Capabilities
Equipped with 4 Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports, this mini PC handled our network with ease. VLANs and DDNS did not affect its performance, and the heatsink temperature remained consistently warm, rather than hot. We were also pleased to note that the Wi-Fi radios worked flawlessly, allowing us to repurpose our old ASUS router as an access point.
Overall Satisfaction
The positive experiences shared by other customers align with our own impressions. We are completely satisfied with the Protectli Vault FW4C – 4 Port and would not hesitate to purchase another one. Its compact design, top-notch performance, and silent operation make it an excellent choice for securing our network.
Note: While the product is designed and headquartered in the US, we acknowledge that it is manufactured in China. We apologize for any confusion caused by the listing.
