pfSense Alternatives for Linux
pfSense is not available for Linux but there are plenty of alternatives that runs on Linux with similar functionality. The best Linux alternative is NethServer, which is both free and Open Source. If that doesn't suit you, our users have ranked more than 25 alternatives to pfSense and 16 are available for Linux so hopefully you can find a suitable replacement. Other interesting Linux alternatives to pfSense are Sophos UTM, IPFire, VyOS and Endian Firewall Community.
pfSense alternatives are mainly Firewalls but may also be VPN Services or Operating Systems. Filter by these if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of pfSense.
- Free • Open Source
- Linux
- Self-Hosted
- CentOS
NethServer is a CentOS-based Linux distribution for servers. The product's main feature is a modular design which makes it simple to turn the distribution into a mail server and filter, web server, groupware, firewall, web filter, IPS/IDS or VPN server.
NethServer vs pfSense opinions
AasMulti purpose server. Not just firewall.
pfSense is a firewall and router, NethServer is a Linux server platform for running other types of services
An orange is not like a piece of cheese
atomicwritespfSense is a dedicated firewall but this is a general turnkey server.
It's main function (server) does not match pfSense (firewall)
Sophos UTM integrates complete security software within a single appliance. Choose only the protection you need when you need it. And deploy it on the platform that best fits your business: software, hardware or virtual appliance.
Sophos UTM vs pfSense opinions
Not as resource hungry when IPS enabled
Free for home use.....very complete package.
IPFire is a server distribution with intended to use as a firewall. It focuses on flexibility, and scales from small to middle sized business networks and home networks.
VyOS is a community fork of Vyatta , a Linux-based network operating system that provides software-based network routing, firewall, and VPN functionality.
- Free Personal • Open Source
- Linux
Endian Firewall Community (EFW) is a "turn-key" linux security distribution that turns every system into a full featured security appliance with Unified Threat Management (UTM) functionality.
ClearOS is a family of operating systems for the enterprise, small business, and home. There are three editions to choose from depending on your needs and suitable to your abilities. They are: ClearOS Enterprise, ClearOS Home, and ClearOS Core.
- Free • Open Source
- Linux
- Self-Hosted
Zeroshell is a Linux distribution for servers and embedded devices aimed at providing the main network services a LAN requires. It is available in the form of Live CD or Compact Flash image and you can configure and administer it using your web browser.
Discontinued
From the Zeroshell website (translated from Italian to English)Disposal of the Zeroshell projectThe project has now reached the end of its life. Zeroshell was born in June 2006 and has over 200,000 installations worldwide. Any security updates will be guaranteed until September 30, 2021. I thank everyone who believed and contributed in various ways to improving the project. The zeroshell.org domain will be divested or sold on September 30, 2021
- Paid • Proprietary
- Linux
Untangle is a platform for deploying network based applications. The platform unites these applications around a common GUI, database and reporting.
Untangle vs pfSense opinions
low priced home user support option - still get an enterprise grade firewall that a home user can discern and use readily.
IPCop Firewall is a Linux firewall distribution geared towards home and SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) users. The IPCop interface is very user-friendly and task-based.
Discontinued
The project seems to be no longer updated. Last version, 2.1.9, released in February 2015, can be still downloaded from the official website.
IPCop vs pfSense opinions
Low HW needs, easy to use.
- Free • Proprietary
- Linux
- OpenWrt
- LEDE - Linux Embedded Development Environment
LibreMesh is a set of modules extending the OpenWrt router distribution to create self-configuring wireless and wired mesh networks.
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