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pfSense VS Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

Compare pfSense VS Raspberry Pi 3 Model B and see what are their differences

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pfSense logo pfSense

pfSense is a free and open source firewall and router that also features unified threat management, load balancing, multi WAN, and more

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B logo Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is another powerful and next-generation computer board that is best for all the computer users who want to enjoy 3D games or create a software development.
  • pfSense Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-20
  • Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-31

pfSense features and specs

  • Open Source
    pfSense is open-source software, meaning it is free to use and has a large community-driven development environment. This allows for continuous improvement and updates.
  • Comprehensive Feature Set
    pfSense provides a wide array of features including firewall, VPN, routing, load balancing, and more, all within a single platform.
  • Customizability
    The platform offers extensive customization options for advanced users, allowing for tailored security and network solutions.
  • Excellent Documentation
    pfSense has a robust and detailed documentation repository, as well as an active community forum, which helps users troubleshoot and optimize their setup.
  • Enterprise Level Security
    With features like stateful packet filtering, role-based access control, and intrusion detection systems, pfSense offers high levels of security suitable for enterprise applications.
  • Scalability
    pfSense is highly scalable, suitable for small home networks up to large enterprise environments, allowing businesses to grow without having to switch platforms.

Possible disadvantages of pfSense

  • Complexity
    pfSense can be complex to configure and manage, especially for users who do not have extensive networking knowledge or experience.
  • Hardware Requirements
    High performance and some advanced features of pfSense may require more robust hardware compared to other solutions, which could increase costs.
  • Learning Curve
    The platform's extensive feature set can result in a steep learning curve for new users, particularly those unfamiliar with networking concepts.
  • Third-Party Integration
    While pfSense supports numerous plugins and features, integrating with some third-party solutions may require additional configuration and expertise.
  • Limited Support for Non-router Functions
    Although quite powerful as a firewall/router, pfSense may lack support for functionalities outside its primary roles, such as advanced endpoint protection or cloud-native security controls.
  • Updates and Maintenance
    Keeping the system up-to-date and secure requires regular maintenance and updates, which might be cumbersome for users managing multiple instances or complex configurations.

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B features and specs

  • Affordability
    The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is cost-effective, making it accessible for hobbyists, educators, and developers who are looking for a budget-friendly computing solution.
  • Versatility
    It can be used in a wide range of applications, from learning programming and building DIY projects to functioning as a media center and running home automation systems.
  • Built-in Connectivity
    Features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for wireless networking and communication without the need for additional dongles or peripherals.
  • Supportive Community
    A strong and active community provides extensive resources, tutorials, and troubleshooting assistance, making it easier to learn and maximize the device's potential.
  • GPIO Pins
    Equipped with 40 GPIO pins, allowing users to connect and control various hardware components and sensors for custom electronics projects.

Possible disadvantages of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

  • Performance Limitations
    While capable for a variety of tasks, its processing power and memory may struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking.
  • Not Suitable for Heavy Applications
    The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B may not perform well with resource-intensive applications like high-end gaming, video editing, or large-scale server tasks.
  • Limited RAM
    Only comes with 1GB of RAM, which can be a bottleneck for certain applications and limits the number of tasks that can be run simultaneously.
  • Thermal Management
    Under heavy load, the device may experience overheating issues, requiring additional cooling solutions such as heat sinks or fans.
  • Storage Dependence
    Relies on a microSD card for storage, which can be less reliable and slower compared to traditional SSD or HDD storage solutions.

Analysis of pfSense

Overall verdict

  • Yes, pfSense is generally considered a good option for network security.

Why this product is good

  • pfSense is an open-source firewall and router that offers robust security features.
  • It supports a wide range of configurations and add-ons, making it highly flexible and customizable.
  • pfSense is known for its reliability and strong performance, even under demanding network conditions.
  • The platform includes features such as VPN, traffic shaping, load balancing, and more, which are often found in commercial products.
  • The community and commercial support from Netgate provides valuable resources for troubleshooting and enhancements.
  • Its open-source nature means regular updates and improvements contributed by a community of users and developers.

Recommended for

  • Small to medium-sized organizations looking for an affordable yet powerful firewall solution.
  • Network professionals and enthusiasts who appreciate customization and open-source solutions.
  • Educational institutions needing a secure and versatile firewall and router solution.
  • Any environment that requires a reliable and feature-rich firewall without the cost of commercial alternatives.

pfSense videos

+ Add

pfsense Firewall Setup and Features in Depth Version 2.4

More videos:

  • Review - Pfsense: 5 Reasons to Use It
  • Review - Netgate SG-3100 Teardown / Speedtest / Review of this powerful pfsense packet pusher!

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B videos

+ Add

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Overview & Setup | RS Components

More videos:

  • Review - Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ 2018 Review and NEW GAMES!!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to pfSense and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B)

pfSense

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

Perimeter Security And Firewalls
100 100%
Perimeter Security And Firewalls
0% 0
Electronics
0 0%
Electronics
100% 100
Cyber Security
100 100%
Cyber Security
0% 0
Single Board Computer
0 0%
Single Board Computer
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare pfSense and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B

pfSense Reviews

The top 10 alternatives to OpenVPN
Netgate offers secure networking solutions, including pfSense Plus and TNSR software, which provide firewall, router, and VPN functionalities. These solutions cater to personal users, professional users, and organizations seeking secure and reliable internet connectivity.
Source: www.twingate.com
Best pfSense Software Alternatives and Competitors
pfSense Software firewall is a robust, open-source security solution that is compatible with any hardware and can be tailored to meet your specific needs. It is a widely used technology, and many individuals seek dependable, popular software solutions with multi-device support, multiple concurrent connections, and protocol selections. Despite its usefulness, pfSense has...
Source: www.zenarmor.com
The Best Open Source Router OS Software for Large or Small Networks
pfSense is a free and open-source router and firewall operating system based on the FreeBSD operating system. It is designed to be used on standard x86 hardware and can be deployed as a virtual machine or on dedicated hardware. pfSense offers advanced features and capabilities that are typically found in commercial routers and firewalls, making it an ideal solution for small...
Source: www.comparitech.com
Best free Linux router and firewall distributions of 2023
pfSense is one of the most popular operating systems today. It's a BSD-based system, similar to OPNSense, but with a longer history. pfSense started in 2004, and since then, it has grown to be the most well-known open-source platform in the industry. Although it gradually loses users to OPNsense, it's still an excellent system for new users because it has the most extensive...
Source: teklager.se
11 Best pfsense Alternatives To Secure Your Network
Unlike those of other available pfSense competitors, its capabilities allow it to be compared to commercial firewalls. You can also customize the pfSense firewall to match your needs based on the level of security and protection you want, as well as your specialist knowledge.
Source: technicalustad.com

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B Reviews

We have no reviews of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B yet.
Be the first one to post

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, pfSense seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 10 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

pfSense mentions (10)

  • Need some help on setting up home network
    Https://pfsense.org (netgate hardware is used in businesses). Source: over 2 years ago
  • Is pfsense.org down, or is it just me?
    I am having trouble seeing available packages, updating pkg, or getting a response from pfsense.org. Is anyone else seeing this or am I going to spend the rest of my day chasing bugs? Source: over 2 years ago
  • Help with VLAN
    From the PIA Client to pfsense.org PING pfsense.org (208.123.73.69) from 10.6.112.128: 56 data bytes 64 bytes from 208.123.73.69: icmp_seq=0 ttl=49 time=49.455 ms 64 bytes from 208.123.73.69: icmp_seq=1 ttl=49 time=51.927 ms 64 bytes from 208.123.73.69: icmp_seq=2 ttl=49 time=49.333 ms 64 bytes from 208.123.73.69: icmp_seq=3 ttl=49 time=49.133 ms 64 bytes from 208.123.73.69: icmp_seq=4 ttl=49 time=49.027 ms ... Source: over 2 years ago
  • Can Surveillance Station record offsite cameras ?
    The above setup is critical to a reliable system. I'd use enterprise quality routers for a store and home connection. I personally use https://pfsense.org but there are many to choose from and several open source. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Exposing Synology to web: best/practical practices?
    What I would do is put that thing in DMZ and install a good router behind it like https://www.pfsense.org. No affiliation, just been my router for many years. There's also it's sibling https://opnsense.org. There are many, just get a enterprise quality router. Source: almost 3 years ago
View more

Raspberry Pi 3 Model B mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B yet. Tracking of Raspberry Pi 3 Model B recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing pfSense and Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, you can also consider the following products

OPNsense - OPNsense® you next open source firewall. Free Download. High-end Security Made Easy™. Offers Intrusion Prevention, Captive Portal, Traffic Shaping and more.

Intel NUC - Intel NUCs are available as Kits(Barebones), Boards(Mainbaord only) and as perconfigured Mini-PCs.

SonicWall - SonicWall security solutions protects your network, systems, users and data from cyber threats.

Udoo x86 Ultra - Udoo x86 Ultra is a modern PC, known as the most powerful X86 maker board and an Arduino 101 compatible platform.

Comodo Firewall - Comodo Firewall Pro - Secure your system against internal attacks such as Trojan viruses /...

Orange Pi - It’s an open-source single-board computer. It can run Android 4.

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