Instead, it will require an additional paid service known as their Armor Service, which provides IDS/IPS options as well as endpoint protections like Bitdefender. Netgear router software does not have these features built in by default. PfSense comes with built-in intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS) feature support for tools like Snort, and no additional services are required for most applications. For this, we will focus on a small to medium sized commercial setup that is typical of a small office, home office or up to the size of a branch office. Netgear: Feature comparisonĭue to the variety of hardware configurations with both pfSense and Netgear, this comparison will mostly focus on software settings and the key features between the two. Many users will be able to simply install the router and not have to configure much of anything unless there is a specific need. The main advantage with choosing a solution from Netgear will be the plug-and-play aspect of the bundled hardware and software. Its hardware and software are a totally closed system, which is in stark contrast with pfSense’s open design. Netgear is one of the top names in routers and firewall solutions and has been for decades.

SEE: Mobile device security policy (TechRepublic Premium) What are Netgear routers? PfSense also offers its own routers under the name Netgate for those who want an experience closer to a bundled hardware and software option, such as with Netgear, but with the added options and flexibility pfSense offers. It works with a host of routers and appliances, and you can even build your own if you need the added customization and options. PfSense is a fully open-source network firewall solution that is free to use and is based on the FreeBSD operating system. Choosing between pfSense and Netgear routers.

Two options that look to fill this role are pfSense and the Netgear series of routers and its bundled firewall software. Choosing the right router and firewall combination is a key element when it comes to both blocking outside security threats but also maximizing the efficiency of your network.

Firewall pfsense hardware