Introduction
Product Overview
The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is a compact and powerful mini PC designed for network security and firewall applications. With its Intel N3700 Quad Core processor and 8GB DDR3 RAM, this mini PC delivers superior performance and is capable of handling heavy workloads. It comes pre-installed with pfSense and supports various open-source firewall systems, making it versatile and customizable to suit different needs. The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance features 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC ports, providing stable and high-speed connectivity. Its fanless and silent design, along with its small form factor, allows it to be easily mounted on the back of a monitor or TV, making it an ideal choice for space-saving installations.
Specifications
The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance boasts impressive specifications that make it a standout product in its category. Powered by an Intel N3700 Quad Core processor and equipped with 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 128GB mSATA SSD, this mini PC offers high performance and ample storage capacity. It features 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC ports, ensuring stable and fast network connectivity. The compact dimensions of 5.27 x 5 x 1.43 inch and a weight of only 0.6kg make it highly portable. Additionally, it supports various operating systems such as pfSense, Windows 10, Linux Ubuntu, and OPNsense, giving users the flexibility to choose the software that best suits their needs. The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance comes with a comprehensive package that includes the mini PC, a power adapter, user manual, warranty card, WiFi antennas, and a back mount bracket with screws.
Review Highlights
Here are some reviews from satisfied customers who have used the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance:
- “Came with pfSense installed. Overall good design, has everything one needs for this purpose. Had trouble getting it to read from USB, read the FAQ and was able to get OPNSense installed. No issues after installation, it’s been running strong for 2 days.”
- “I purchased this device and it has been running in my home for 8 months now. This device could address my needs better than consumer-level WiFi routers. It is more powerful and cost-effective, providing advanced features like heavy VPN usage, segregated VLANs, parental controls, and advanced network insights.”
- “Right out of the box, it’s a much more solid build than some branded open-source network appliances. All hardware was fully recognized on the initial install and went seamlessly. It runs quietly with no fan, and the CPU utilization and temperature remain low even under heavy loads.”
- “This device enabled more advanced use cases for me, such as managing traffic for online gaming and implementing parental controls. Its capacity and features provide control and sophistication, and the open-source software easily identifies and takes advantage of its capabilities.”
Initial Experience
Delivery and Condition
Upon receiving the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance, we were pleased to find that it was delivered right on time and in good condition. The packaging was secure and environmentally sustainable, using paper-based materials for added sustainability. Inside the package, we found the mini PC along with all the necessary accessories, including a 12V/3A power adapter, a US power plug, a user manual, a warranty card, two WiFi antennas, and a back mount bracket with screws.
Hardware Description
The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance impressed us with its compact size and solid build quality. Made from robust aluminum, the mini PC measures only 5.27 x 5 x 1.43 inches, making it incredibly portable and ideal for space-saving setups. It weighs just 0.6kg, further enhancing its portability.
The mini PC features 4 Intel 2.5Gigabit Ethernet ports, utilizing Intel i225 network card chips. These ports provide stable and high-speed connectivity, making it suitable for soft routing, firewall, and other network applications. The device also offers additional I/O interfaces, including 1 HDMI port, 1 VGA port, 2 USB 3.0 ports, and 1 DC IN port, allowing for versatile connectivity options.
Usage with pfSense
Setting up the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance with pfSense was a breeze. The pre-installed pfSense operating system ensured seamless compatibility and recognition of all hardware components. We were able to configure the device effortlessly, thanks to its user-friendly interface.
With the appliance running pfSense, we experienced excellent performance and functionality. The Intel N3700 Processor Quad core, combined with AES-NI support, delivered exceptional CPU and GPU performance, surpassing similar devices in this price range. We found the device to be powerful and capable of handling various network security tasks, including heavy VPN usage, advanced firewall rules, and routing.
our initial experience with the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance was highly satisfactory. It arrived in excellent condition, offered impressive hardware specifications, and performed exceptionally well with pfSense. We were impressed with its portability, solid build quality, and its ability to handle demanding network tasks.
Performance
Stability and Reliability
The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC Ports Fanless Mini PC is a reliable and stable device designed for network security and routing purposes. Users have reported that the unit has been running nonstop for months without any issues. Additionally, the device has received positive feedback regarding its robust build and performance in both residential and small business settings.
Network Speed
Equipped with 4 Intel 2.5Gigabit Ethernet ports, this mini PC offers stable and high-speed connectivity. The Intel i225 network card chips provide excellent compatibility for soft routing, firewall, and other network applications. Users have praised the device for its network speed, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as heavy VPN usage and advanced firewall rules and routing.
Storage Capacity
With 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 128GB mSATA SSD, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance offers ample storage capacity to meet the hardware requirements of different network security firewall software and hypervisor applications. While the memory is limited to one SODIMM slot, the storage can be upgraded to 512GB, providing flexibility for users’ specific needs.
Portability and Silent Operation
This fanless mini PC is designed with portability and silent operation in mind. Its compact size, measuring only 5.27 x 5 x 1.43 inches, allows it to be easily mounted on the back of a monitor or TV, saving space in any environment. The passive cooling design ensures quiet operation, making it suitable for 24/7 use without causing disturbances.
Package List & Service
The package includes the VNOPN Mini PC, a 12V/3A power adapter, a US power plug, a user manual, a warranty card, two WiFi antennas, and a back-mount bracket with screws. The product comes with a 3-year warranty and lifetime tech support. The company prides itself on offering excellent customer service, with 24/7 support and a 1-month free return policy. The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance also meets FCC, CE, and RoHS certifications, ensuring its safety and compliance standards.
the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC Ports Fanless Mini PC offers reliable performance, high network speed, sufficient storage capacity, portability, and silent operation. With its feature-rich design and excellent customer service, it is a recommended option for those seeking a compact and powerful solution for network security and routing needs.
Bios and Technical Support
BIOS Modification
One of the advantages of the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is the ability to modify the BIOS settings to optimize its performance. Users have reported success in modifying the BIOS to allow for better cooling, such as adding a small fan or implementing alternative cooling solutions. This can help address any heat issues that may arise during intensive usage, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the device.
Access to Technical Information
While some users have expressed concerns about the accessibility of technical information, VNOPN is committed to providing support and assistance to its customers. While the official website may currently be inaccessible, users can still submit inquiries and obtain technical information through customer feedback channels, such as Amazon. VNOPN values customer satisfaction and is dedicated to addressing any concerns or questions that arise.
Customer Support
VNOPN takes pride in offering exceptional customer support to its users. With 7×24 hours customer service and a 3-year warranty, users can feel confident in their purchase. The team at VNOPN is readily available to provide assistance and guidance, ensuring that users have a smooth and satisfactory experience with their Micro Firewall Appliance. Additionally, the product comes with a comprehensive package list, including a user manual and warranty card, further demonstrating VNOPN’s commitment to customer support and satisfaction.
the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance provides an impressive set of features and capabilities for a compact and fanless mini PC. With its powerful Intel N3700 Processor, 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC ports, and high-capacity storage, it is well-equipped to handle various network security and firewall applications. While some users have experienced heat-related issues during intensive usage, the device’s BIOS can be modified to address this concern. Furthermore, VNOPN’s customer support and technical assistance ensure that users have access to the information and guidance they need for a seamless experience. Overall, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is a reliable and efficient choice for users seeking a compact and powerful solution for their networking needs.
Comparison and Value
Comparing with Other Options
When comparing the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance to other options on the market, we found that it offers superior performance and value. Unlike some other mini PCs, this model comes with an Intel N3700 Quad-Core processor, which provides better CPU and GPU performance compared to alternatives like the J3160/N2940. Additionally, this mini PC is pre-installed with pfSense and supports other open-source firewall systems, giving users the freedom to choose their preferred software.
Open Source Trust
For those who prioritize open-source software, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is a trustworthy option. Its pre-installed operating system, pfSense, allows for customization and ensures a higher level of security. Unlike other products on the market that come with pre-installed Windows, this mini PC offers the flexibility and peace of mind that comes with open-source software.
Limitations with mSATA Drive
One limitation to note is that the included mSATA drive does not support trim functions. This may cause issues with certain firewall software and hypervisor applications. However, users can work around this limitation by modifying the system’s /boot/loader.conf file. By adding the line “vfs.zfs.trim.enabled=”0″”, users can disable trim and prevent any potential issues that may arise.
Connectivity Options
The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance stands out with its comprehensive connectivity options. It features four Intel 2.5GbE NIC ports, allowing for stable and high-speed network connections. Additionally, it offers various I/O interfaces, including HDMI, VGA, RJ45 LAN, USB3.0, and DC IN, to meet a diverse range of needs.
the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance offers great value for the price. It is a portable, fanless mini PC that provides high performance, multiple connectivity options, and a reliable open-source operating system. Whether you’re looking to set up a hardware firewall or a router, this mini PC delivers a compact and powerful solution. With excellent customer service, a 3-year warranty, and various certifications, this mini PC provides peace of mind to its users.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
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The VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance has a powerful Intel N3700 quad-core processor that provides excellent performance for running firewall and routing applications. With a base clock speed of 1.6GHz (burst up to 2.4GHz) and support for AES-NI, this mini PC can handle demanding tasks with ease.
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The inclusion of four Intel 2.5GbE NIC ports ensures stable and high-speed network connectivity. These ports, equipped with Intel i225 network card chips, are compatible with various soft-routing, firewall, and network applications. Additionally, the mini PC offers a range of I/O interfaces, including HDMI, VGA, USB 3.0, and LAN ports, providing flexibility for different connectivity needs.
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This mini PC comes with 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 128GB mSATA SSD, providing ample storage and memory capacity for network security firewall software and hypervisor applications. The RAM can be expanded to 8GB, and the storage can be upgraded to 512GB.
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The compact size of the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance, measuring only 5.27 x 5 x 1.43 inches and weighing just 0.6kg, makes it highly portable. It even comes with a mounting bracket, allowing it to be easily attached to the back of a monitor or TV, saving valuable space.
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The fanless passive cooling design ensures that the mini PC operates silently and has low power consumption. With a TDP of only 6W, it can run quietly and efficiently 24/7.
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The package includes a 12V/3A power adapter, a user manual, WiFi antennas, a back mount bracket with screws, and offers 7×24 hours customer service. The product also comes with a 3-year warranty and lifetime technical support.
Disadvantages
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Some users experienced issues with the BIOS and power-related functions of the mini PC. These issues included a faulty BIOS leading to the unit becoming unresponsive, UEFI settings defaulting after a power outage, and difficulties accessing the BIOS.
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There were also concerns among users regarding the lack of accessible information on the VNOPN website for updating the BIOS or obtaining technical support. The reliance on submitting feedback through Amazon was seen as a potential drawback.
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One customer received the mini PC with a broken install of pfSense and a misconfigured BIOS, suggesting the possibility of receiving pre-used equipment without prior notification.
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A few users encountered difficulties in booting from USB and had to navigate through some configuration settings to successfully install pfSense. These initial setup challenges may require some troubleshooting for users unfamiliar with the process.
Despite some drawbacks, overall, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance offers excellent performance, portability, and connectivity options for users seeking a compact and reliable solution for their network security and routing needs.
FAQs
CAM Timeout Error
Some users have reported encountering a “CAM timeout error” when booting up their pfSense on the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance. However, this issue can be easily resolved by editing the pfSense’s “/boot/loader.conf” file. By adding the line vfs.zfs.trim.enabled="0", the TRIM function on the SSD drive can be disabled, eliminating the error.
Power Consumption and Efficiency
One of the standout features of the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is its remarkable power efficiency. With a TDP of only 6W, this fanless mini PC is designed to consume minimal energy, making it an ideal choice for 24/7 operation without worrying about high electricity bills. Users have praised its ability to maintain low power consumption while delivering exceptional performance.
Other Use Cases
While the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance is primarily designed for use as a firewall and router, it has proven to be versatile enough to handle various other network applications. Users have successfully utilized it for tasks such as running Wireguard as a client or server, VLAN configuration, network monitoring, ad-blocking, and packet inspection. Its quad-core Intel N3700 processor and ample memory ensure smooth operation, even with demanding tasks.
The compact size of this mini PC, measuring just 5.27 x 5 x 1.43 inches and weighing only 0.6kg, makes it portable and suitable for various use cases. Additionally, its fanless design ensures silent operation, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern.
With its compatibility with multiple open-source firewall systems, such as pfSense, OPNsense, and more, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance offers flexibility and ease of use for different network security needs.
the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC Ports Fanless Mini PC is a reliable and efficient network gateway solution. Its powerful hardware, compact form factor, and low power consumption make it a popular choice among users looking for a versatile and user-friendly firewall and router.
Conclusion
After thoroughly reviewing the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC Ports Fanless Mini PC, we can confidently say that it is a reliable and powerful network gateway soft router mini computer.
One of the standout features of this mini PC is its processor and operating system compatibility. Equipped with an Intel N3700 Processor Quad core and pre-installed with pf-sense, it offers superior performance compared to other similar products on the market. It also supports other open-source firewall systems such as Windows 10, Linux Ubuntu, and Opnsense, providing versatility for users.
The inclusion of 4 Intel 2.5Gigabit Ethernet ports is another notable feature. These ports, along with the Intel i225 network card chips, ensure stable and high-speed connections. Additionally, the mini PC offers a range of I/O interfaces, including HDMI, VGA, LAN, USB 3.0, and DC IN, making it suitable for various networking applications.
With 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 128GB mSATA SSD, this compact firewall box provides ample storage capacity. It can easily accommodate different network security firewall software and hypervisor applications.
We also appreciate the portable and silent design of this mini PC. Its small form factor, lightweight construction, and fanless passive cooling design make it easy to transport and operate quietly.
In terms of customer service, VNOPN offers a 3-year warranty, lifetime tech support, and 24/7 customer service. Their products have obtained FCC, CE, and RoHS certifications, ensuring compliance and quality.
Overall, the VNOPN Micro Firewall Appliance 4 Intel 2.5GbE NIC Ports Fanless Mini PC is a reliable and versatile choice for those in need of a powerful network gateway soft router. It offers excellent performance, compatibility, and convenience, making it a valuable addition to any network setup.
