Firewalla Review

The Firewalla, in short, is a robust and user-friendly cybersecurity appliance designed to bring enterprise-grade network protection to homes and small businesses without the usual complexity. Think of it as a bouncer for your digital life, meticulously inspecting every packet of data flowing in and out of your network, blocking threats, managing bandwidth, and even allowing you to control content access with surprising granularity. It’s an excellent solution for anyone serious about securing their burgeoning smart home, protecting remote work setups, or simply wanting a clearer picture of their network activity. This isn’t just another router. it’s a dedicated security hub that integrates seamlessly, offering features like ad blocking, VPN server/client capabilities, parental controls, and intrusion prevention, all managed through an intuitive mobile app.

For those looking to level up their network security, the Firewalla stands out from the crowd.

It offers a significant upgrade over standard router security features and provides a simpler, more integrated approach than cobbling together various software solutions.

Here’s a comparison of Firewalla against some relevant alternatives:

• Firewalla Gold Plus

  

  • Key Features: Multi-Gigabit firewall, router mode, VPN server/client, ad blocker, intrusion prevention, parental controls, network insights, Docker support.
  • Average Price: ~$500-$600
  • Pros: Extremely powerful, versatile router/firewall mode, comprehensive security, easy app management, future-proof.
  • Cons: Higher price point, might be overkill for very basic users.

• Ubiquiti EdgeRouter X

  • Key Features: Compact Gigabit router, VLAN support, basic firewall rules, command-line interface CLI access.
  • Average Price: ~$60-$80
  • Pros: Very affordable, highly configurable for advanced users, good performance for the price.
  • Cons: Steep learning curve, not beginner-friendly, lacks integrated security features like ad blocking or intrusion prevention out-of-the-box, no dedicated app.

• Netgear Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router

  • Key Features: High-performance WiFi 6, advanced QoS, basic parental controls, built-in VPN server often limited, often includes trial subscriptions for security features e.g., Netgear Armor.
  • Average Price: ~$150-$300
  • Pros: Excellent WiFi performance, widely available, generally easy setup.
  • Cons: Integrated security features are often basic or subscription-based after a trial, less granular control over network traffic, not a dedicated firewall.

• Synology RT6600ax Router

  • Key Features: Tri-band WiFi 6, powerful SRM operating system, comprehensive parental controls, threat prevention, VPN Plus server, guest network management.
  • Average Price: ~$250-$350
  • Pros: Robust software features, strong security suite for a router, good performance, user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Still a router first, dedicated firewall capabilities are not as deep as Firewalla, higher price than typical consumer routers.

• TP-Link Omada SDN Router e.g., ER605

  • Key Features: Multi-WAN, VPN server, basic firewall rules, part of a larger SDN ecosystem for centralized management.
  • Average Price: ~$60-$100
  • Pros: Cost-effective, good for small businesses/prosumers building an Omada network, scalable.
  • Cons: Requires additional Omada components controller, APs for full SDN experience, less intuitive for standalone home use, security features are more enterprise-focused and less user-friendly for typical home users.

• NordVPN Router Pre-configured routers with VPN software

  

  • Key Features: Router pre-loaded with VPN client software, encrypts all network traffic, bypasses geo-restrictions.
  • Average Price: ~$150-$400 plus VPN subscription
  • Pros: Simplifies VPN setup for an entire network, ensures all devices are protected by VPN, convenient.
  • Cons: Primarily focused on VPN, offers very limited network security beyond encryption, no intrusion prevention or advanced traffic shaping, requires ongoing VPN subscription.

• pfSense Firewall Appliance e.g., Netgate 1100

  • Key Features: Open-source firewall distribution, highly customizable, advanced routing, VPN, IDS/IPS, package system for additional features.
  • Average Price: ~$150-$300 for an appliance
  • Pros: Extremely powerful and flexible, completely free software if you build your own hardware, massive community support, ultimate control.
  • Cons: Very steep learning curve, requires significant technical expertise, not user-friendly for non-technical users, appliance cost is extra.

Understanding the Firewalla Ecosystem: More Than Just a Box

When you dive into the Firewalla universe, you’re not just buying a piece of hardware. you’re investing in an ecosystem designed for modern network security. Unlike a traditional router that focuses primarily on Wi-Fi and basic routing, Firewalla is a dedicated firewall appliance that sits in front of or between your existing network gear and the internet. This strategic placement allows it to scrutinize every single packet of data, offering a level of control and insight that consumer routers simply can’t match.

The Firewalla family currently includes several models: the Firewalla Red, Firewalla Blue, Firewalla Blue Plus, Firewalla Gold, and the Firewalla Gold Plus. Each model offers increasing levels of performance and features, primarily differing in their processing power, number of Ethernet ports, and maximum throughput. The Red and Blue models are excellent entry points for basic home protection, while the Gold and Gold Plus are powerhouses designed for multi-gigabit networks, demanding smart homes, or small businesses.

Key aspects of the Firewalla ecosystem include:

• Intuitive Mobile App: This is the command center. All configuration, monitoring, and alerts happen through a sleek, user-friendly mobile application iOS and Android. No arcane web interfaces or command-line prompts needed.
• Cloud-Assisted Intelligence: While much of the processing happens locally on the device, Firewalla leverages cloud intelligence for threat detection, ad-blocking lists, and security rule updates, ensuring it’s always armed with the latest defense mechanisms.
• No Monthly Fees for core features: This is a huge differentiator. Once you buy the hardware, the core security features, updates, and app access are free for life. There are no hidden subscriptions for basic firewall functions, which is common with many router-based security solutions.

The true value proposition here is simplicity meeting sophistication. Firewalla manages to pack enterprise-grade security features into a package that even a relative novice can set up and manage, often in less than 15 minutes. It’s a pragmatic solution for anyone who values their digital privacy and security but doesn’t have a CCNA certification.

Core Security Features: Your Digital Bouncer

Firewalla’s strength lies in its comprehensive suite of security features, all working in concert to create a formidable defense for your network. It’s not just about blocking bad guys. it’s about giving you visibility and control over everything happening on your network.

• Intrusion Prevention System IPS & Intrusion Detection System IDS:

  • This is the frontline defense. Firewalla’s IPS actively monitors network traffic for known malicious patterns and automatically blocks them before they can reach your devices. Think of it as an immune system for your network, identifying and neutralizing threats like malware, phishing attempts, and exploit kits.
  • The IDS component alerts you to suspicious activities that might indicate a breach or policy violation, even if they aren’t immediately blocked.
  • Real-world Example: If a device on your network tries to connect to a known botnet command-and-control server, Firewalla will immediately flag and block that connection, preventing your device from being compromised or used in attacks.

• Ad Block & Malware Protection:

  • Beyond just security, Firewalla significantly enhances your browsing experience by blocking ads, trackers, and known malware sites across all devices connected to your network. This isn’t just a browser extension. it’s network-wide.
  • Benefits: Faster page loading, reduced data usage, improved privacy, and a significant reduction in annoying pop-ups and intrusive ads.
  • Highlight: This feature works for smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other devices where ad-blocking software isn’t typically available.

• VPN Server and Client:

  • VPN Server: Turn your home network into a private VPN server. This allows you to securely access your home network resources like NAS drives, security cameras, or smart home devices from anywhere in the world, as if you were sitting at home. It’s excellent for remote work or accessing local content while traveling.
  • VPN Client: Connect your entire network through a third-party VPN service e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN. This means all devices on your network will route their traffic through the VPN, providing privacy and geo-unblocking without needing to install VPN software on each device individually.
  • Example: You can set up a VPN client on your Firewalla to connect to a server in another country to access streaming content that’s geo-restricted, and every device connected to your Wi-Fi will benefit.

• Dynamic DNS:

  

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  • For those needing to access their home network from outside especially useful with the VPN server, Firewalla includes built-in Dynamic DNS support. This ensures you can always find your home network even if your internet service provider changes your IP address.

This robust set of security features makes the Firewalla a proactive guardian rather than a reactive troubleshooter.

It’s designed to prevent problems before they start, giving you peace of mind.

Network Management and Control: Your Digital Command Center

Beyond pure security, Firewalla excels in giving you unparalleled control and insight into your network. It’s not just about blocking threats. it’s about optimizing performance, managing access, and understanding your network’s behavior in real-time.

• Parental Controls:

  • This is a standout feature for families. Firewalla allows you to create highly granular parental control policies for individual devices or groups of devices.
  • Features include:
    • Content Filtering: Block specific categories of websites e.g., adult content, gaming, social media. You can customize these categories.
    • Time Limits: Set schedules for internet access e.g., no internet after 9 PM on school nights.
    • Safe Search Enforcement: Automatically enforce safe search on Google, YouTube, Bing, and DuckDuckGo for selected devices.
    • Activity Monitoring: See what websites your kids are visiting without deep packet inspection of encrypted traffic, just domain names.
  • Highlight: The “Family Protect” feature blocks malicious and adult content across the entire network with a single tap, making it incredibly easy to implement a baseline level of protection.

• Bandwidth Usage Monitoring:

  • Ever wonder which device is hogging all the bandwidth? Firewalla provides real-time and historical bandwidth usage data for every single device on your network.
  • Benefits: Identify bandwidth-hungry applications or devices, troubleshoot slow internet, and ensure critical services like video calls for remote work have enough headroom.
  • Actionable Insight: You can see daily, weekly, and monthly totals, helping you understand your overall internet consumption.

• Quality of Service QoS & Traffic Shaping:

  • Firewalla offers basic QoS capabilities, allowing you to prioritize certain types of traffic or devices. For example, you can give priority to video conferencing applications during working hours or prioritize a specific gaming console.
  • Note: While not as sophisticated as enterprise-grade QoS systems, it’s highly effective for typical home or small business use cases.
  • Example: Ensure your Zoom calls never stutter, even when someone else is streaming 4K video.

• Smart Device Quarantining:

  • A growing number of smart home devices IoT are notoriously insecure. Firewalla allows you to quarantine these devices, preventing them from communicating with the internet or even other devices on your local network, except for specific, allowed connections.
  • Scenario: Your smart light bulb only needs to talk to its cloud server and your phone app, not the rest of your network. Firewalla can enforce this, significantly reducing the attack surface if the bulb is compromised.
  • Highlight: This is a crucial feature for securing an increasingly connected home.

The level of granular control offered by Firewalla through its mobile app is truly impressive.

It democratizes network management, putting powerful tools into the hands of everyday users without requiring a degree in networking.

Performance and Reliability: The Unsung Heroes

When it comes to network devices, performance and reliability are paramount. Qustodio Review

A powerful firewall is useless if it introduces latency or frequently crashes.

Firewalla has largely excelled in these areas, particularly with its higher-end models.

• Throughput Speeds:

  • The Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models are designed to handle multi-gigabit internet connections up to 2.5 Gbps or even 10 Gbps on the Gold Plus. This means they can inspect and process traffic at very high speeds without becoming a bottleneck, even with all security features enabled.
  • Important Consideration: Lower-end models Red, Blue have lower throughput limits e.g., 100 Mbps for Red, 500 Mbps for Blue, so it’s crucial to choose a model that matches your internet speed. For most modern homes with gigabit internet, a Gold or Gold Plus is the recommended choice.
  • Test Data: Independent reviews and user reports consistently show Firewalla Gold/Gold Plus maintaining close to line speed even under heavy load with IPS/IDS enabled, which is a significant achievement for a consumer-friendly appliance.

• Stability and Uptime:

  • Firewalla devices are generally very stable. The operating system, built on a Linux foundation, is robust, and the dedicated hardware ensures consistent performance.
  • Minimal Downtime: Unlike software firewalls running on general-purpose computers, Firewalla is purpose-built, reducing conflicts and instability. Regular software updates also include bug fixes and performance improvements.
  • “Set It and Forget It” in a good way: Once configured, many users report rarely needing to interact with their Firewalla beyond checking alerts or making occasional policy changes. It quietly works in the background.

• Hardware Design and Efficiency:

  • The devices themselves are compact and passively cooled fanless for the Red, Blue, and Gold models Gold Plus might have active cooling depending on revision, meaning they are silent and consume minimal power.
  • Form Factor: Their small footprint allows them to be discreetly placed near your modem or router.
  • Durability: The solid metal enclosures for Gold/Gold Plus are robust and designed for longevity.

The commitment to continuous software updates also contributes to long-term reliability. Firewalla isn’t a static product.

It’s constantly being refined and improved, ensuring it remains a relevant and high-performing component of your network infrastructure for years to come.

This focus on performance and reliability means you’re investing in a solution that won’t hinder your internet experience but rather enhance it by providing a secure and stable foundation.

Ease of Use and Setup: Cybersecurity for Everyone

One of Firewalla’s most compelling attributes is its remarkable ease of use, especially considering the advanced features it offers. This is where it truly democratizes network security, making it accessible to those who might be intimidated by traditional networking gear.

• Plug-and-Play Installation: Furrion Aurora 55 Inch Partial Sun Outdoor Tv 2022 Review

  • Firewalla offers several setup modes: Router Mode, DHCP Mode, Simple Mode, and Bridge Mode.
  • Simple Mode most common: For most users, setting up Firewalla is as simple as plugging it in between your existing router and modem, downloading the mobile app, and following a few on-screen prompts. The app automatically detects the device and guides you through the process.
  • No Technical Expertise Required: You don’t need to understand IP addresses, subnets, or routing tables to get Firewalla up and running. The app handles the complexities behind the scenes.
  • Time Commitment: Many users report being fully operational within 10-15 minutes, which is astonishing for a device with its capabilities.

• Intuitive Mobile App Interface:

  • The entire Firewalla experience is managed through its sleek, well-designed mobile app. This is a must.
  • Dashboard View: A clear, at-a-glance dashboard shows network activity, blocked threats, connected devices, and overall health.
  • Event Log: A comprehensive log of all network events, including blocked connections, alarms, and device activity, is easily browsable.
  • Granular Control: Despite its simplicity, the app provides deep control over individual devices, applications, and network policies with clear toggle switches and sliders. Want to block TikTok on your kid’s phone? Two taps. Want to prioritize your work laptop? A few more taps.

• Real-time Alerts and Notifications:

  • Firewalla actively monitors your network and sends instant notifications to your phone for critical events.
  • Examples: New devices joining the network, blocked attacks, suspicious activities, or policy violations e.g., a device trying to access blocked content.
  • Actionable Alerts: Many alerts allow you to take immediate action directly from the notification, such as blocking a suspicious connection or quarantining a device.

• Contextual Help and Support:

  • The app includes helpful explanations for various features and settings, reducing the need to consult external documentation.
  • Firewalla also has an active community forum and responsive customer support, which are valuable resources for more complex issues or advanced configurations.

This focus on user experience is a significant competitive advantage.

While powerful firewalls like pfSense or OPNsense exist, they require a significant technical investment to configure and manage.

Firewalla delivers a comparable level of protection and control in a package that anyone can operate, making advanced cybersecurity accessible to the mainstream.

It truly embodies the idea of “set it and forget it” for initial setup, but provides deep insights for those who want to dive in.

Advanced Use Cases and Community Support: Beyond the Basics

While Firewalla shines in its ease of use for general home network security, it also offers a surprising depth for advanced users and fosters a vibrant community, making it a powerful tool for those who want to push the boundaries.

• Docker Container Support Firewalla Gold/Gold Plus:

  • This is a significant feature for tech enthusiasts. The Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models allow you to run Docker containers directly on the device.
  • Potential Uses: This opens up a world of possibilities, such as running a Pi-Hole for advanced DNS ad-blocking, hosting a small web server, running a local Home Assistant instance for smart home automation, or even a local VPN client for specific traffic.
  • Benefit: Consolidates services onto a single, low-power device, reducing the need for separate Raspberry Pis or other mini-computers.
  • Example: You could run a custom DNS server that filters specific types of traffic, or even a network-wide password manager.

• Multi-WAN and Load Balancing Firewalla Gold/Gold Plus: Msi Radeon Rx 6750 Xt Gaming X Trio 12G Review

  • For those with two internet connections e.g., fiber and a backup cable or 5G hotspot, the Gold and Gold Plus can act as a multi-WAN router, providing redundancy and load balancing.
  • Benefits: Increased uptime for critical applications, ability to combine bandwidth from multiple sources though often not perfectly additive, and resilience against single ISP outages.
  • Scenario: Essential for remote workers or small businesses where internet connectivity is paramount.

• VLAN Support:

  • Firewalla supports Virtual Local Area Networks VLANs, allowing you to segment your network into isolated logical sections.
  • Security Benefit: You can create a separate VLAN for your IoT devices, another for guests, and a third for your sensitive work devices. This prevents a compromise on one segment from spreading to others.
  • Example: If your smart light bulb is hacked, it can only affect other devices within its designated IoT VLAN, not your primary computers or servers.

• Active Community Forum:

  • Firewalla boasts a highly active and helpful community forum. This is an invaluable resource for:
    • Troubleshooting: Finding solutions to common issues.
    • Learning: Discovering new ways to use Firewalla’s features.
    • Sharing Configurations: Exchanging tips and tricks with other users.
    • Feature Requests: Engaging directly with the Firewalla team on potential new features.
  • Highlight: The Firewalla team is often present in the forums, providing direct support and gathering feedback.

• Open-Source Elements:

  • While not fully open-source, Firewalla utilizes many open-source components, such as Linux and various networking tools. This allows for a degree of transparency and leverages the robustness of widely tested software.

These advanced capabilities, combined with a strong community and responsive development team, ensure that Firewalla isn’t just a static product.

Comparing Firewalla Models: Choosing Your Guardian

Selecting the right Firewalla model is crucial to ensure you get the performance and features that match your needs and internet speed.

The lineup has evolved, but generally scales in performance, ports, and cost.

• Firewalla Red:

  • Target User: Entry-level, basic home network security.
  • Specs: Single Gigabit Ethernet port in/out, ~100 Mbps throughput with security features.
  • Pros: Most affordable, smallest form factor, great for basic ad blocking and parental controls on slower internet connections.
  • Cons: Limited throughput, only one Ethernet port requires using a separate switch for multiple wired devices, less powerful processor.
  • Best for: Homes with internet speeds below 100 Mbps who want a simple, effective security layer.

• Firewalla Blue Plus:

  • Target User: Mid-range home network security, small apartments.
  • Specs: Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, ~500 Mbps throughput with security features.
  • Pros: Better throughput than Red, dual ports allow for more flexible deployment, good value for the features.
  • Cons: Still limited by throughput for gigabit internet, less powerful than Gold series.
  • Best for: Homes with internet speeds up to 500 Mbps, or those with basic gigabit connections who don’t need full line speed for all devices.

• Firewalla Gold:

  • Target User: High-performance home networks, small businesses, prosumers.
  • Specs: Four Gigabit Ethernet ports, ~3 Gbps throughput with security features, more powerful processor, Docker support.
  • Pros: Multi-gigabit performance, multiple ports for router mode or complex setups, Docker support adds versatility, robust and future-proof.
  • Cons: Higher price point, might be overkill for very slow internet connections.
  • Best for: Homes with gigabit internet 1 Gbps, those planning for multi-gig future, or small businesses needing advanced features and high throughput. This is often the sweet spot for many serious users.

• Firewalla Gold Plus: Sony E 15Mm F14 G Review

  • Target User: Enthusiasts, small businesses with multi-gig internet, cutting-edge networks.
  • Specs: Four multi-gig Ethernet ports 2.5 Gbps or even 10 Gbps on some models/revisions, highest throughput ~5-10 Gbps, most powerful processor, Docker support.
  • Pros: Ultimate performance, ready for next-gen multi-gig internet, offers the most future-proofing and processing power for demanding tasks.
  • Cons: Highest price point, potentially overkill for most current internet connections.
  • Best for: Users with multi-gigabit internet connections 2.5 Gbps and above, or those who truly want the absolute best performance and maximum future-proofing.

Key Decision Factors:

1. Your Internet Speed: This is the primary driver. Don’t buy a Red if you have gigabit internet, and you probably don’t need a Gold Plus if you’re on 200 Mbps.
2. Number of Wired Devices: If you plan to use Firewalla in router mode and have many wired devices, the Gold/Gold Plus offers more native ports.
3. Advanced Features: Do you envision using Docker, multi-WAN, or extensive VLANs? If so, the Gold or Gold Plus is necessary.
4. Budget: Firewalla is an investment. Choose the model that fits your budget while meeting your core performance requirements.

Consider your current internet plan and your potential upgrades in the next 3-5 years.

Investing a bit more upfront in a Gold or Gold Plus can save you from needing to upgrade again sooner if your internet speed increases.

Potential Downsides and Considerations: Knowing the Full Picture

While Firewalla offers an impressive array of features and ease of use, it’s important to approach any technology with a balanced perspective.

There are a few considerations and potential downsides to be aware of before investing.

• Reliance on Mobile App:

  • Pro: The mobile app is incredibly intuitive and makes management easy.
  • Con: It’s the only way to manage the device. There’s no web interface for configuration. If your phone battery dies, or you prefer a desktop interface for complex tasks, you’re out of luck. While a minor inconvenience for many, it’s a critical point for some network administrators.
  • Consideration: Ensure you’re comfortable with app-only management.

• Learning Curve for Advanced Features:

  • While basic setup is simple, fully leveraging advanced features like Docker, VLANs, or complex routing rules still requires some technical understanding. The app simplifies the interface, but the concepts themselves can still be complex.
  • Example: Setting up complex firewall rules for specific applications or creating intricate VLAN segmentation isn’t a one-click affair, though Firewalla’s app makes it as straightforward as possible.

• Cost vs. DIY Solutions:

  • Firewalla devices are a premium product. The Gold and Gold Plus models, especially, represent a significant investment compared to a basic router or even a cheap mini-PC running open-source software like pfSense or OPNsense.
  • Trade-off: You’re paying for the convenience, the polished app, the continuous updates, and the pre-configured security intelligence. If you have the technical skills and time, a DIY solution can be cheaper upfront but requires much more effort to maintain.

• No Built-in Wi-Fi:

  • Firewalla is a dedicated firewall and router in router mode, but it does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. You will still need separate wireless access points WAPs or an existing Wi-Fi router to broadcast your wireless network.
  • Implication: This adds to the overall cost and complexity if you’re starting from scratch, but it also allows for greater flexibility in Wi-Fi deployment e.g., using a mesh system.

• Cloud Dependency for some features: Sonos Ray Review

  • While core firewalling happens locally, some features like threat intelligence updates, remote access via the app, and certain historical data analytics rely on Firewalla’s cloud services.
  • Privacy Concern: While Firewalla states they do not store user data or traffic content, some users might be wary of any cloud dependency for a security device.
  • Functionality without Cloud: The device will continue to function as a firewall if the cloud service is down, but you lose app management, real-time alerts, and updated threat intelligence until connectivity is restored.

• Limited Customization for Deep Packet Inspection DPI:

  • Firewalla performs impressive traffic analysis and intrusion detection, but it doesn’t offer the same level of granular, custom DPI rule creation that truly expert-level firewalls might. For most home users, this isn’t an issue, but for highly specialized network environments, it could be a limitation.

Understanding these points helps set realistic expectations.

For the vast majority of home users and small businesses, Firewalla’s advantages far outweigh these considerations, making it a highly recommended solution for modern network security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Firewalla and what does it do?

Firewalla is a smart cybersecurity appliance that acts as a firewall, intrusion prevention system, ad blocker, and network management tool for your home or small business network.

It protects all your connected devices from cyber threats, manages bandwidth, and provides parental controls, all controlled via a mobile app.

Is Firewalla a router?

Some Firewalla models, like the Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus, can function as a full-fledged router, replacing your existing one.

Other models, like the Red and Blue Plus, primarily function as a dedicated firewall that sits in front of your existing router.

Do I need to pay a monthly fee for Firewalla?

No, Firewalla does not charge any monthly subscription fees for its core security features, updates, or app access.

Once you purchase the hardware, the essential functionalities are free for life.

Which Firewalla model is right for me?

It depends on your internet speed and desired features. Marshall Emberton Ii Review

• Firewalla Red: For internet speeds up to 100 Mbps.
• Firewalla Blue Plus: For internet speeds up to 500 Mbps.
• Firewalla Gold: For gigabit internet 1 Gbps and advanced features like Docker and multi-WAN.
• Firewalla Gold Plus: For multi-gigabit internet 2.5 Gbps or higher and maximum future-proofing.

Can Firewalla replace my existing router?

Yes, the Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models can replace your existing router, provided you have separate Wi-Fi access points or don’t need Wi-Fi as Firewalla devices do not have built-in Wi-Fi. The Red and Blue Plus models typically work in conjunction with your existing router.

How easy is Firewalla to set up?

Firewalla is remarkably easy to set up, usually taking 10-15 minutes using its intuitive mobile app.

You simply plug it into your network, download the app, and follow the guided instructions.

Does Firewalla have built-in Wi-Fi?

No, Firewalla devices do not have built-in Wi-Fi.

You will still need a separate Wi-Fi router or access points to provide wireless connectivity to your devices.

Can Firewalla block ads on all my devices?

Yes, Firewalla provides network-wide ad and tracker blocking, meaning it blocks ads across all devices connected to your network, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices, without needing individual browser extensions.

Does Firewalla offer parental controls?

Yes, Firewalla has robust parental control features, allowing you to filter content, set time limits for internet access, enforce safe search, and monitor device activity for specific users or devices.

Can I use a VPN with Firewalla?

Yes, Firewalla can function as both a VPN server allowing you to securely access your home network remotely and a VPN client allowing your entire network to route traffic through a third-party VPN service.

Is Firewalla good for gaming?

Yes, Firewalla typically has a minimal impact on gaming latency ping due to its efficient processing.

Its network management features can even help by prioritizing gaming traffic if needed, and blocking malicious connections during gameplay. Sony Bravia Xr 55 Inch Class A95K Oled Tv Review

Does Firewalla collect my data?

Firewalla states that it does not store your private data or inspect the content of your communications.

It processes metadata to identify threats and activity but is designed with privacy in mind.

What happens if my internet goes down?

If your internet goes down, Firewalla will continue to function as a local network firewall and router if in router mode, but it will lose connectivity to Firewalla’s cloud services for threat intelligence updates, remote management via the app, and some historical data logging until internet connectivity is restored.

Can Firewalla protect my smart home devices IoT?

Yes, Firewalla is excellent for securing IoT devices.

You can use its “quarantine” feature to isolate insecure smart devices, limiting their communication to only what’s necessary and preventing them from interacting with other parts of your network or the broader internet if they become compromised.

Does Firewalla support VLANs?

Yes, the Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models support VLANs, allowing you to segment your network into isolated logical sections for enhanced security and organization e.g., a separate VLAN for guests or IoT devices.

Can Firewalla block specific websites or applications?

Yes, you can easily block specific websites, categories of content, or even certain applications directly from the Firewalla mobile app for individual devices or groups of devices.

Is Firewalla worth the investment?

For many users, yes.

Firewalla offers enterprise-grade security and network control in a user-friendly package with no recurring fees for core features, making it a worthwhile investment for enhanced cybersecurity and peace of mind.

How does Firewalla compare to a traditional router’s security features?

Firewalla offers significantly more advanced and comprehensive security features like deep intrusion prevention, advanced ad blocking, and granular control compared to the basic firewall and limited security typically found in standard consumer routers. Lensbaby Soft Focus Ii Review

Can I monitor my network usage with Firewalla?

Yes, Firewalla provides detailed real-time and historical bandwidth usage monitoring for every device on your network, helping you identify bandwidth hogs and understand your internet consumption patterns.

What are the different setup modes for Firewalla?

Firewalla offers several setup modes:

• Simple Mode DHCP Mode: Sits between your modem and router, capturing all traffic.
• Router Mode: Firewalla acts as your primary router.
• Bridge Mode: For specific network configurations.
• Disabled Mode: Used for troubleshooting or temporary pauses.

Does Firewalla update automatically?

Yes, Firewalla devices receive regular software updates automatically, ensuring they are always running the latest firmware with new features, bug fixes, and updated threat intelligence.

Can I access my Firewalla remotely?

Yes, you can manage and monitor your Firewalla device remotely from anywhere using its mobile app, thanks to its cloud-assisted remote access functionality.

Is Firewalla good for small businesses?

The Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models are suitable for small businesses due to their high throughput, multi-WAN capabilities, VLAN support, and robust security features, providing enterprise-level protection without the complexity.

What if I have multi-gigabit internet?

The Firewalla Gold Plus is specifically designed for multi-gigabit internet connections e.g., 2.5 Gbps or 10 Gbps, ensuring that it can process traffic at line speed even with all security features enabled.

Does Firewalla support Docker containers?

Yes, the Firewalla Gold and Gold Plus models support running Docker containers directly on the device, allowing advanced users to host additional services like Pi-Hole or Home Assistant.

What kind of alerts does Firewalla provide?

Firewalla sends real-time notifications to your phone for various events, including blocked attacks, suspicious activities, new devices joining the network, and policy violations e.g., content being blocked.

Can I prioritize specific devices or applications with Firewalla?

Yes, Firewalla offers basic Quality of Service QoS features that allow you to prioritize certain devices or types of traffic e.g., video conferencing, gaming to ensure smooth performance.

How is Firewalla different from a traditional antivirus software?

Antivirus software protects individual devices from malicious files and software. Firewalla protects your entire network at the gateway level, blocking threats before they even reach your devices, acting as a complementary layer of security. Logitech Mx Mechanical Keyboard Review

Does Firewalla work with mesh Wi-Fi systems?

Yes, Firewalla works well with mesh Wi-Fi systems.

If Firewalla is in router mode, your mesh system would operate in access point AP mode.

If Firewalla is in simple mode, it integrates seamlessly with your existing mesh system’s routing.

Is Firewalla a good investment for future-proofing my network?