Ubiquiti networks unifi vs pfsense– A comparative review

Though developed for different uses, pfsense and ubiquiti can both be used as firewalls and wireless solutions. How does their functionality compare within these similar uses?

Pfsense was developed specifically to help users build router software as well as be used as a firewall, while ubiquiti networks unifi was developed as a Wi-Fi hotspot software. Although they were built for different uses, both of them can be used for cyber security as firewalls and pfsense can also be used as a wireless solution, similar to ubiquiti.

Pfsense is deployed through cloud storage, which is wireless or a network box which requires a cable connection. However, for use in handling WIFI, it has to be deployed through the network box. It is also fully customizable and has the capacity to utilize various diverse network cards which would be essential for a large network system with users that have differed specific needs. Ubiquiti Networks Unifi offers Wi-Fi and security. It has separate pieces of good quality hardware that are able to easily integrate and work together to give great results. Ubiquiti Networks Unifi would be the go to option for a small company that either lacks the technological know-how to run their own customized system or does not need a lot of customization.

What are the differences between pfsense vs ubiquiti?

Feature
Pfsense (Winner)
Ubiquiti network Unifi
Speed
Dependant on hardware
150 Mbps – 300Mbps
Range
Dependant on hardware
82ft – 400ft
Price: Check website
Free

Note that the speed and range of the router soft wares are dependent on the specific package that an individual chooses to purchase.

Ubiquiti networks unifi vs pfsense- How do they compare?

  • Pricing

Pfsense is free and open source which means it can be downloaded directly from the internet to your home or work device. On the other hand, ubiquiti is a paid software. However, ubiquiti is rated to be very affordable, considering that it has and functions with very high quality software.

  • Hardware

Pfsense allows the user to build routers from scratch as well as install it on pre-existing routers that meet the hardware qualifications which are at least 650 MHz, 550 MB of RAM and about 4 GB of hard disk space. Ubiquiti does not give this option. However, its package contains high quality pre-built hardware router devices.

Pfsense vs ubiquiti – A comparison review

Pfsense

Pfsense was released in 2006 as a free to distribute and open source Operating system designed for use as a router builder and developer as well as a firewall. It can also be used as a Wi-Fi solution, which is the focus of this review. The fact that it is open source implies that there is a lot of documentation as well as guidance for its use online. It also comes with a lot of add-ons that improve its already vast features, all at no additional cost. These include web filters that are vital in filtering, managing and blocking certain information from flowing into or out of network systems.

It is an excellent firewall because it logs information traffic as well as coming with free installable packages that can effectively filter and snort bad traffic

Pros

  • Its license is open source which eases access to direct support as well as online discussions
  • Low hardware equipment requirements.
  • Easy to use. Good user interface design! Easy to understand and easy to set up.
  • Has a wide range and large number of additional applications.

Cons

  • Could be confusing and difficult to use for a learner or inexperienced user.

Ubiquiti

Ubiquiti Networks UniFi is a great solution for businesses and homes looking for cost effective solutions for their WIFI access points and switching needs. The system is designed to be simple and intuitive, which removes the need for a lot of networking know-how.

It is easy to setup, requiring fairly little technological know-how and its security products and Wi-Fi are simple to implement and easily controlled through an independent singular administration portal. An additional solutions that comes with ubiquiti include its security system. It also has additional hardware which can be purchased and integrated with the offered Wi-Fi solution. Ubiquiti is an ongoing project, the developers are making strides in ensuring its system is updated and continues adding features.

Pros

  • The software goes for a relatively low price to the high-quality of their equipment
  • It offers a lot of networking solutions for quite a variety of networking requirements
  • The software has a highly intuitive configuration system interface, making it easy to use
  • The set up and deployment of replacement devices and new equipment is rather fast.

Cons

  • It is rather difficult to access direct support for ubiquiti products, which increases dependency on resellers and online discussion platforms.
  • It is a paid for software

Conclusion

Both ubiquiti and pfsense are efficient in their functions as it pertains to security and WIFI networking with slight differences that include: Pfsense is free while ubiquiti is paid for, though very affordable in regard to its hardware. Pfsense also has a wider range of uses. This could be very useful to a tech-savvy user while of no consequence to a user who just requires a firewall or secure WIFI network. It is all about perspective and individual cats.

Verdict – So which is betterUbiquiti networks unifi or pfsense?

Pfsense would be the best choice for larger companies that have wide specific needs, as well as the technical skills required to develop a network box to suit those specified needs. On the other hand, ubiquiti is easier to use and navigate making it the better choice for a company that either has few specific needs for the users in the network or one that does not have the technical know how to set up and managed various customized network boxes.

With all this information in mind, I would definitely go for pfsense, keeping in mind that it also has quite a number of additional features that could prove useful to any organization or home network.

FAQs

What do I need for a Ubiquiti network?

You would require at least four Ethernet cables and a computer or laptop with an Ethernet port. You would need to have your existing broadband modem or ISP router with an available LAN port. In the case that you are not using a switch, you would need to have an existing router with three available LAN ports.

Is Ubiquiti free?

No, it is not a free software. You can check the official website for their pricing models. In addition, the package comes with some hardware implements depending on the package that you choose to go for.

Is pfsense still free?

Yes, Pfsense is still a free and open source software and can be downloaded directly from their website for use on your device of choice.

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