OPNsense Reviews

Name: OPNsense
Brand: OPNsense
Rating: 4.1 (39 reviews)

Vendor: OPNsense

4.1 out of 5

39 reviews
97% willing to recommend

1,631 followers

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What is OPNsense?

OPNsense is widely used for firewall functionalities, intrusion detection, VPN and IPSec, content filtering, securing network traffic, and remote access. It protects internal networks and manages servers securely, suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.

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OPNsense is the #3 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give OPNsense an average rating of 8.2 out of 10. Based on the analysis of the 39 most recent OPNsense reviews, the overall sentiment is positive, with a sentiment score of 7.2. OPNsense is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: OPNsense vs Fortinet FortiGate. OPNsense is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 45% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 16% of all views.

Helped 824,095 peers since 2012

Featured reviews

Eddy Ramirez

IT Security Director at a financial services firm with 1,001-5,000 employees

The security has improved as we can isolate the network. We can do attrition prevention via a tool that comes with the solution. We can have a VPN solution in place for those that work from home, outside the network, in a secure manner. We also like that it offers good authentication. It offers radius-based authentication, which has been useful for the company. The main platform is under the Open VPN firewall. The solution has high availability. When we have different ISPs, we can actually load balance those links or actually put some priority or even classify the traffic that might go into one ISP or another.

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Akram Zaki Hussein

System and Network Administrator at El Sadat City Language School

The interface is user-friendly, but there's room for improvement in terms of intuitiveness. The bundle management aspect requires additional attention to make it more intuitive, especially for inspecting high-level traffic. This is crucial, especially for larger companies where the existing features might not be the most optimal choice, given limitations like printer constraints. For high availability, it's crucial to have a method in place where a designated component oversees the entire process. Given that OPNsense plays a pivotal role as a firewall, safeguarding against various threats, having a reliable backup ensures uninterrupted protection even if unforeseen events impact the primary virtual machine. It would be beneficial if OPNsense supported additional virtualization platforms like Hyper-V from Microsoft and VMware, similar to how Kaspersky has integrated them.

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Elisee TAMBA

Founder/IT Consultant at Open IT World

I moved to OPNsense because it's more secure and more reliable. I use it to secure access to the servers. I have a core backing server, an e-banking server, the main server, and other features with the solution. I make the multi-DMZ packs, so each service is in one DMZ bay, and I use it as a…

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OPNsense mindshare

As of December 2024, the mindshare of OPNsense in the Firewalls category stands at 14.6%, down from 17.9% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Firewalls

PeerAnalyst reports

Type	Title	Date
Category	Firewalls	Dec 27, 2024	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Dec 27, 2024	Download
Comparison	OPNsense vs Netgate pfSense	Dec 27, 2024	Download
Comparison	OPNsense vs Fortinet FortiGate	Dec 27, 2024	Download
Comparison	OPNsense vs Sophos XG	Dec 27, 2024	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Fortinet FortiGate	4.2	20.5%	90%	317 interviews Add to research
Netgate pfSense	4.3	18.6%	94%	206 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

OPNsense's most valuable features include flexibility for programming, a user-friendly interface, comprehensive reports, easy configuration, and powerful IPsec VPN and VPN server capabilities. It excels in firewall functionality, content filtering, and DNS-level filtering. Users appreciate the GUI, frequent updates, and stability. It is open-source, cost-effective, and easily integrates with other systems. Users highlight the robust network visibility, security features, guest access, and the Dual WAN capability, which enhances communication and offers subscription-based security.

"OPNsense is very stable, easy to upgrade, and maintain."
"I mostly rely on the solution's network intrusion detection and prevention system, along with other systems, CMs, and log management."
"The tool's integration is more like a button press."

Room for Improvement

OPNsense shows integration challenges with virtual servers and complex configuration needs, particularly with monitoring, virtualization, and user portals. Its interface lacks user-friendliness, and documentation is insufficient. There are issues with VPN stability and high availability. Improvements are desired for performance in large-scale implementations and clarity in reporting. Compatibility with other firewalls and enhanced security features like threat intelligence and VPN traffic handling are requested. Additionally, scalability and API functionalities require enhancement.

"OPNsense struggles to handle large volumes of voice traffic, indicating scalability issues in that specific use case."
"SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network) is integrated into some restricted service providers for OPNSense."
"pfSense has better performance and quicker updates."

ROI

Users highlighted that OPNsense significantly reduced their operational costs while providing robust security features. They appreciated its ease of use and flexibility in deploying tailored network solutions. The minimal licensing fees contributed to their quick return on investment, and its reliable performance enhanced their network efficiency. OPNsense's active community support also ensured rapid troubleshooting, which minimized downtime and helped protect critical assets.

Pricing

OPNsense is widely recognized for its affordability in enterprise settings, being open-source with no mandatory licensing fees. Most users leverage the free version, only incurring hardware costs. Optional paid support or features exist, often rated positively for value. Comparatively low costs make OPNsense attractive against alternatives like FortiGate or Sophos. Infrastructure costs arise in cloud deployments, similar to other solutions. Feedback on pricing ranges from high satisfaction to viewing it as relatively expensive in larger contexts.

"I've used the free version. My computer with two network cards at home allows me to try as many different software options as I want. I did pay for the license, but it was for the Zenarmor license, which is the packet inspection tool. They use AI for packet inspection, which integrates with OPNsense and pfSense."
"It is free."
"I would rate the pricing a nine out of ten, especially considering the availability of a free community edition."

Popular Use Cases

Users primarily utilize OPNsense for VPN connections, firewall functionality, and network security. It is employed to connect data centers, secure networks, block malicious traffic, and manage security operations. OPNsense is implemented for intrusion detection, remote access, and SD-WAN functionalities. Users integrate it with cloud environments, provide content filtering, and secure both cloud instances and on-premises servers. It is favored by entities requiring versatile network security solutions, supporting multiple scenarios, and deployed across various industries.

Service and Support

Many users did not need OPNsense support, often finding solutions online or via community forums. Although some reported satisfaction with technical support, improvements were suggested. Responses were fast for those interacting with support, yet many resolved issues independently. Forums and community pages were frequent resources. Some noted a lack of easy access to direct support, preferring local support due to cost. Documentation online was cited as comprehensive, providing needed information. Technical support received varying ratings.

Deployment

Users find OPNsense's initial setup easy and straightforward. Deployment typically takes a few hours to a couple of days. Basic firewall knowledge is sufficient for setup and maintenance. Some users mention VPN configuration challenges and the need for proper IP addressing. Inexperienced users find available data helpful for setup. On Azure, support and documentation are lacking, making it challenging for beginners. Despite occasional issues, many rate the setup process positively.

Scalability

Users describe OPNsense as very scalable, catering to various organizational sizes. Many utilize it across multiple offices, supporting thousands of users and VPN connections. While some indicated optimal performance by upgrading hardware or using VM versions, others expressed limitations with larger voice traffic volumes. Various users commend its flexibility, adaptability, and ease of scaling, though some note potential challenges in large enterprise settings. Generally, feedback considers OPNsense suitable for diverse scaling needs.

Stability

OPNsense demonstrates strong stability for many users. While some report challenges with VPN availability and specific setups, most find it stable on their systems. Performance is generally smooth, especially with recent hardware but can face issues handling high traffic or require updates to resolve bugs. Users rate its stability highly, often between seven to ten out of ten, acknowledging minor issues but appreciating its overall reliability, especially with correct configurations and drivers.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our OPNsense Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

16%

Comms Service Provider

11%

Government

Educational Organization

University

Manufacturing Company

Media Company

Financial Services Firm

Retailer

Healthcare Company

Hospitality Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Non Profit

Construction Company

Insurance Company

Real Estate/Law Firm

Outsourcing Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Legal Firm

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Transportation Company

Performing Arts

Pharma/Biotech Company

Consumer Goods Company

Compare OPNsense with alternative products

Learn more about OPNsense

OPNsense is a comprehensive firewall solution leveraging open-source technology. It integrates with third-party modules like WireGuard and CrowdSec, enhancing its security capabilities. Offering on-premises and cloud deployment, it features an intuitive graphical interface, advanced reporting, VPN functionality, IDS/IPS features, and high scalability. Users find it ideal for small businesses and home networks due to its stability and ease of use. Frequent updates and an active community support its continuous improvement. However, it needs advancements in VPN selection, scalability, and technical documentation. Enhanced high availability, threat intelligence, and integration with virtualization platforms are required. User feedback suggests improvements in connectivity, alerting, traffic monitoring, and antivirus protection.

What are the key features of OPNsense?

Strong Firewall: Robust firewall capabilities for securing network traffic.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Effective IDS/IPS for threat mitigation.
VPN Functionality: Comprehensive VPN support including WireGuard.
Content Filtering: DNS-level filtering for enhanced security.
Advanced Reporting: In-depth traffic analysis and reporting features.
High Scalability: Supports growing network demands.
Integration Capabilities: Works with third-party modules like CrowdSec.
Intuitive GUI: User-friendly graphical interface enhances usability.

What benefits should users look for in OPNsense reviews?

Security: High level of protection for internal networks.
Manageability: Easy management of servers and network traffic.
Cost-Effective: Open-source nature reduces costs.
Reliability: Stable performance suitable for small and medium-sized businesses.
Community Support: Active community and frequent updates.

OPNsense is implemented across various industries to secure network infrastructure and ensure reliable connectivity. In fintech, it safeguards sensitive financial data while maintaining compliance. Educational institutions deploy it to protect student information and enable secure remote learning environments. Healthcare organizations use it to secure patient data and comply with HIPAA regulations. By integrating with tools like WireGuard and CrowdSec, businesses enhance their cybersecurity posture and streamline network management, making OPNsense a versatile choice for diverse operational needs.

OPNsense customers

1. Deciso B.V.

2. iXsystems, Inc.

3. EuroBSDCon

4. Netgate

5. Claranet

6. Voleatech

7. Open Systems AG

8. Securebit AG

9. Proxmox Server Solutions GmbH

10. AVM Computersysteme Vertriebs GmbH

Additional customers include: T-Systems International GmbH, Deutsche Telekom AG, Vodafone GmbH, 1&1 IONOS SE, OVHcloud, Hetzner Online GmbH, Strato AG, PlusServer GmbH, Host Europe GmbH, United Internet AG, 1&1 Versatel Deutschland GmbH, QSC AG, Bechtle AG, Cancom SE, Computacenter AG & Co. oHG, T-Systems Multimedia Solutions GmbH, Atos SE, Capgemini SE, Accenture plc, IBM Corporation, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, Cisco Systems, Inc.