Protectli Vault FW4B Firewall Micro Appliance User Manual

1. Entwodiksyon

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Protectli Vault FW4B firewall micro appliance. The FW4B is a compact, fanless device designed for network security applications, featuring an Intel Quad Core Celeron J3160 processor with AES-NI hardware support and four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports. It is a barebone unit, allowing for maximum customization with user-supplied RAM and mSATA storage.

The Protectli Vault FW4B is compatible with various open-source software solutions, including pfSense, untangle, and OPNsense, making it a versatile choice for securing and managing your network.

Figure 1: Protectli Vault applications, including firewall, VPN router, and hypervisor.

2. Ki sa ki nan bwat la

Upon unpacking your Protectli Vault FW4B, please verify that all the following components are present:

• Protectli Vault FW4B Unit
• Adaptè pouvwa (DC 12V)
• Kòd pouvwa
• Serial Console Cable (RJ-45 to DB9)
• VESA Mounting Plate and Screws

Figure 2: Included accessories for the Protectli Vault FW4B. Note: The power supply design may vary.

3. Pwodwi souview

The Protectli Vault FW4B features a robust, fanless design for silent operation and enhanced reliability. Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators:

3.1 Panèl devan

Figure 3: Front panel of the FW4B with Ethernet ports and power input.

• Pò WAN: Connects to your internet service provider (ISP) modem.
• Pò LAN: Connects to your internal network switch or access point.
• OPT1, OPT2 Ports: Optional ports for additional network segments, VLANs, or other configurations.
• DC 12V Antre pouvwa: Konekte adaptè pouvwa a enkli isit la.
• Endikatè ki ap dirije: Status lights for power and network activity.

3.2 Panèl dèyè

Figure 4: Rear panel of the FW4B with various I/O ports.

• Bouton pouvwa: Press to power on or off the device.
• Audio Jack: For audio output (if supported by OS).
• Pò USB 3.0 (x2): For connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, or USB installation media.
• COM Port (RJ-45): Serial console port for direct command-line interface access.
• Pò HDMI (x2): Pou konekte ekran yo.

Figure 5: Dimensions of the Protectli Vault FW4B.

4. Enstalasyon

The Protectli Vault FW4B is a barebone unit, requiring the installation of RAM and an mSATA SSD before use. Please follow these steps carefully.

4.1 Hardware Installation (RAM & mSATA SSD)

1. Pouvwa Off: Ensure the device is unplugged from the power source.
2. Chasi ouvè: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the FW4B.
3. Enstale RAM: Insert the DDR3L SO-DIMM RAM module(s) into the designated slot(s) until they click into place.
4. Install mSATA SSD: Insert the mSATA SSD into its slot and secure it with the provided screw.
5. Fèmen chasi: Replace the bottom panel and secure it with the screws.

Nòt: Refer to the Protectli website or contact support for compatible RAM and mSATA SSD models if you encounter issues.

4.2 Koneksyon Inisyal

1. Konekte Ekspozisyon an (Si ou vle): Connect a monitor to one of the HDMI ports.
2. Connect Keyboard (Optional): Connect a USB keyboard to a USB 3.0 port.
3. Konekte rezo:
   • Connect your ISP modem to the WAN pò.
   • Connect your computer or a network switch to the LAN pò.
4. Pouvwa sou: Connect the power adapter to the DC 12V input and then plug it into a power outlet. Press the power button on the rear panel.

4.3 Enstalasyon sistèm operasyon

The Protectli Vault FW4B does not come with a pre-installed operating system. It is designed to run open-source firewall distributions. Common choices include:

• pfSense
• Untangle NG Firewall
• OPNsense

To install an operating system:

1. Download the desired OS image (e.g., ISO file) from the official websit.
2. Create a bootable USB drive using a utility like Rufus or Etcher.
3. Insert the bootable USB drive into a USB 3.0 port on the FW4B.
4. Power on the FW4B and access the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing DEL or F2 during boot) to set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions of the chosen operating system to complete the installation.

Konsèy: Many open-source firewall distributions offer detailed installation guides on their respective websites. Protectli also provides resources on their knowledge base.

5. Operasyon Enstriksyon

Once the operating system is installed and configured, the Protectli Vault FW4B will function as your network appliance. Specific operating procedures will depend on the installed software.

5.1 Power On/Off

• Pouvwa sou: Press the power button on the rear panel. The power LED will illuminate.
• Pouvwa Off: It is recommended to shut down the operating system gracefully through its interface before pressing the power button. A short press of the power button typically initiates a graceful shutdown, while a long press (5-10 seconds) performs a hard power off.

5.2 Konfigirasyon Rezo

After OS installation, access the web interface of your chosen firewall software from a computer connected to the LAN port. The default IP address for the LAN interface is typically provided during OS installation or in the OS documentation. From the web interface, you can configure:

• WAN (Internet) settings
• LAN (Internal Network) settings
• Règ firewall
• Sèvis VPN
• Additional network services

Enpòtan: Always refer to the documentation of your installed operating system for detailed network configuration steps.

6. Antretyen

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Protectli Vault FW4B.

6.1 Netwayaj

• Kenbe aparèy la nan yon anviwònman pwòp, san pousyè.
• Periodically wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
• Evite sèvi ak pwodui netwayaj likid dirèkteman sou aparèy la.

6.2 Firmware Updates (BIOS/UEFI)

Protectli may release BIOS/UEFI updates to improve stability, compatibility, or add features like coreboot support. Check the official Protectli website for the latest firmware and detailed update instructions. Always follow the provided instructions carefully to avoid damaging the device.

6.3 Jesyon Chalè

The FW4B is a fanless device, relying on its aluminum chassis for heat dissipation. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit. Avoid placing it in enclosed spaces or stacking other devices directly on top of it. While designed to run warm, excessive heat can impact performance and lifespan.

NAN. Depanaj

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Protectli Vault FW4B.

If you encounter issues not covered here, please refer to the Protectli Knowledge Base or contact customer support.

8. Espesifikasyon

9. Garanti ak sipò

Protectli offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and US-based customer support for the Vault FW4B.

• Sipò Kliyan: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Protectli websit pou enfòmasyon kontak.
• Baz Konesans: An extensive online knowledge base is available with detailed articles and guides for installation and configuration.
• Garanti: Specific warranty terms and conditions are available on the Protectli websit.

Figure 6: Protectli's commitment to open source, security, and support.