Side by side
pfSense vs Shorewall
Both stand on firewall software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hostedWeb
Choose pfSense if you want an open-source firewall and router distribution with a web interface, package extensions, and several deployment options. Consider another installation route if you need to preserve an existing drive setup or dual boot, since the USB installer overwrites the drive.
Visit pfSense Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
Visit Shorewall The facts
| pfSense | Shorewall | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted, Web | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | pfSense | Not published |
| Website | pfsense.com | shorewall.org |
| On firewall software | #11 of 81 | #15 of 81 |
pfSense: what it does well
- Open-source source code is distributed under Apache 2.0.
- Firewall and routing functions are managed through a web interface.
- Supports IPsec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard VPN options.
- Can deploy on hardware, virtual machines, and public clouds.
- Network documentation covers VLANs, high availability, and traffic shaping.
What to know first
- USB memstick installation overwrites the entire hard drive.
- The USB installer does not support dual booting with another OS.
- Global support is purchasable for self-installed and virtual deployments.
Shorewall: what it does well
Alternatives to pfSense Alternatives to Shorewall The whole list