Side by side
NACVIEW vs PacketFence
Both stand on network access control software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+2
NACVIEW combines network access control, device visibility, and security integrations, with both virtual and hardware appliance deployment options. The 20-device free license and managed-switch requirement are important deployment limits.
Visit NACVIEW
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+5
PacketFence combines access enforcement, authentication, onboarding, and device compliance controls. Organizations considering self-hosting should account for the stated system requirements and plan device limits.
Visit PacketFenceThe facts
| NACVIEW | PacketFence | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Starter: $5,000 a year |
| Plans published | 3 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | nacview.com | packetfence.com |
| On network access control software | #3 of 23 | #1 of 23 |
NACVIEW: what it does well
- Controls wired, wireless, and VPN network access
- Detects connected devices in real time
- Can quarantine infected devices
- Offers a 60-day full-function trial
- Supports virtual or hardware appliance deployment
What to know first
- Deployment requires at least one managed switch
- Free NV-20 license is limited to 20 authorized devices
- Perpetual licenses require first-year support purchase
PacketFence: what it does well
- Supports wired, wireless, and VPN access control.
- Guest workflows include self-registration and sponsored access.
- Can quarantine devices that fail security policy.
- Community Edition includes unlimited devices and full source code.
What to know first
- Self-hosted minimum is 16 GB RAM and 200 GB disk.
- Starter supports up to 250 registered devices.
- Paid plans start at $5,000 per year.
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