When we talk about Firewalls for network security, we discuss the various tools that help protect a computer system from cyberattacks and act as a shield against servers and IT resources. Firewalls come in software or hardware form that must be installed on a server.
Most Firewalls available in the market either fail to provide complete security or are extremely expensive. In such situations, you may need an open-source Firewall that is entirely free to use and can also be customized according to your choice.
Many people may be confused by the wide range of open-source firewalls available online. So, for your convenience, we have made a list of the best open-source firewalls that can compete with most of the paid variants available in the market.
1. PfSense
This is a firewall built on modern technology called FreeBSD. You can use it for both individual and enterprise work. In addition, the open-source Firewall offers a wide range of security functions that will help you stay protected from cyber-attacks.
You can install PF Sense locally on your computer. It also has some customizable settings that you can adjust according to your preference. PF Sense works well with Windows 10.
2. OPNSense
If you want an easy-to-install open-source Firewall, then OPNSense will be a perfect choice for you. Moreover, the interface of this Firewall is clean and straightforward to be used by several professionals and individual entities. Some of the best-in-class features of OPNSense include WAN load balancing, Network flow monitoring, full mesh VPN routing, etc.
This firewall also includes built-in reporting and analysis. It is very popular in its segment and has been widely used since its release in 2015.
3. Untangle Firewall
Toggle firewall is special software that provides advanced network security to its users. You can install it on various platforms starting from a server, or dedicated appliance to a virtual machine or cloud. On the other hand, the Firewall provides complete network protection using its high-class technology.
Additionally, Untangle Firewall also has a software package installed in hardware that you can use. The Firewall will protect the server on which it is installed and the network running on your system.
4. ClearOS
Clear OS is a firewall that helps ensure security on the Linux operating system. It allows you to manage access to local services and applications on the machine and safeguards both a server and its network.
Recently, Clear OS developers introduced a custom firewall that helps users add IP Table rules on a computer. Overall, the Firewall is relevant for regular and complex users.
5. IPFire
This is a Linux-based firewall that many reputed enterprises trust. IPFire protects its users from various cyber attacks and denial-of-service attacks. In addition, the developers’ support can be considered one of the best, as thousands of developers monitor the software online.
The unique aspect is the IDS, or Intrusion Detection System, which monitors network traffic and identifies a potential threat. The Firewall blocks attackers as soon as it identifies one.
6. IPCop
IPCop Firewall is another Linux-based firewall that provides network security for individuals and enterprises. The whole Firewall is operated using a command line, and it doesn’t have a graphical interface. Therefore, IPCop is generally preferable for advanced users.
However, the lack of a graphical interface makes it light weighted to manage storage problems. The leading site of IPCop is shut down, but you can still download it from distribution archives.
7. Shorewall
If you want a Linux firewall installed on servers or routers, Shorewall is a perfect choice. It works based on IPtables configuration tools. There are many variants of Shorewall, each serving a different purpose; users can download them according to their preferences.
Additionally, Shorewall has a three-interface system that can be used with routers by adding a DMZ. It can also be used on several devices as it supports protection for more than one IP address.
8. Endian
It is an easy-to-use firewall that can be used with several operating systems, such as Windows 10 and others. Endian’s mechanism provides additional protection to your network. The Firewall can be set up quickly for elementary web and email protection.
Additionally, users will get antivirus and VPN with Endian firewall. Finally, you will get a wide range of varieties to use.
9. Smoothwall Express
It is another open-source firewall that has been serving its users since 2000. Smoothwall Express’s unique aspect is its own GNU/ Linux operating system and web-based interface. The Firewall ensures security through its three-layered system to prevent malware attacks on your system.
You will also find good developer support as there are many active developers behind the project. Moreover, the software is easy to install and has an interactive interface.
10. VyOS
Vyos is one of the most highly regarded open-source firewalls that is trusted by world big corporations like Vodafone, Autonet, and Foxit. Whether you are looking for democratized network access or affordable remote-access VPN, it has both features.
Free routing is another key feature of this firewall. Since it runs on common AMD64, i586, and ARM computers, utilizing the firewall for cloud deployment becomes seamless. Furthermore, it can also be utilized as a specific VPN solution for remote systems.
