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pfSense

Secure networks start here.™

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pfSense is free and open source firewall and router software based on FreeBSD, combining firewall, VPN, and routing functionality in one system. It addresses network security and connectivity needs such as multi-WAN setups, load balancing, and unified threat management, with support for site-to-cloud, cloud-to-cloud, and virtual private cloud connectivity.

Capabilities include IPsec and other VPN services, captive portal, traffic shaping, state table management, and packages such as Snort and ntop. pfSense Plus software is available through Netgate virtual appliances on Amazon AWS and Microsoft Azure, as well as Netgate hardware gateways ranging from small office and branch models to enterprise and MSP deployments. Hardware sizing guidance accounts for VPN throughput, captive portal users, state table size, and package requirements.

The software serves home users, small offices, branch offices, medium and large businesses, enterprises, and service providers. The open source edition is available for download, while pfSense Plus is offered through Netgate cloud and hardware products, with eligible hardware purchases able to bundle Netgate Global Support. Netgate also provides commercial support, professional services, and official training courses.

12 alternatives to pfSense

Ranked by how well each tool replaces pfSense: shared features, audience, price and popularity.

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