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OPNsense Reviews

Vendor: OPNsense
4.2 out of 5
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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.

Get the OPNsense Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about OPNsense, Fortinet FortiGate, Netgate pfSense and more!
OPNsense is the #3 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give OPNsense an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. OPNsense is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: OPNsense vs Fortinet FortiGate. OPNsense is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 41% 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.
Buyer's Guide
OPNsense
August 2025
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OPNsense mindshare

As of August 2025, the mindshare of OPNsense in the Firewalls category stands at 11.6%, down from 17.6% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Firewalls Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
OPNsense11.6%
Fortinet FortiGate20.8%
Netgate pfSense12.0%
Other55.6%
Firewalls

PeerResearch reports based on OPNsense reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryFirewallsAug 25, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonOPNsense vs Netgate pfSenseAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonOPNsense vs Fortinet FortiGateAug 25, 2025Download
ComparisonOPNsense vs Sophos XGAug 25, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Fortinet FortiGate4.220.8%91%412 interviewsAdd to research
Netgate pfSense4.312.0%93%218 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

OPNsense offers flexibility, user-friendliness, and ease of configuration. Its valuable features include a robust firewall, VPN capabilities, reporting and visibility tools, integration with Let's Encrypt certificates, and a user-friendly interface. Users appreciate its open-source nature, regular updates, and the ability to deploy on custom hardware. They also value content filtering, DNS-level filtering, and the geo-location services. The solution's stability, comprehensive plugin options, and documentation enhance its functionality and ease of management.
  • "Overall, I would rate OPNsense as nine out of ten."
  • "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."

Room for Improvement

OPNsense faces challenges such as integration issues with virtual servers, translation difficulties, complex configurations, and the need for a simplified interface. Users express a desire for improvements in VPN features, real-time monitoring, threat intelligence, and documentation. Some note the lack of compatibility with pfSense, while others highlight issues with high availability, hardware updates, and reporting. Enhancing these aspects could make OPNsense more appealing, especially for small businesses and those seeking affordable solutions.
  • "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 experienced an ROI from OPNsense in under three months. Although external factors like economic challenges and geopolitical events impact business, they reported saving $5,000 annually due to no recurring fees. Even up-front equipment and setup costs were recuperated within this period. Threat detection and containment time improved significantly, decreasing from 50 minutes to 15 minutes. Users noted substantial operational changes when compared to Check Point and FortiNet.

Pricing

OPNsense offers a cost-effective solution for enterprises. Many users report no licensing fees since it is open-source, with primary costs being hardware or infrastructure. Optional paid versions offer additional features, but the community edition remains popular for its affordability, especially when compared to alternatives like FortiGate and Palo Alto. While some expenses, such as support or specialized tools, may arise, overall, users find OPNsense competitively priced and budget-friendly for deploying essential firewall capabilities.
  • "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 functions, and intrusion prevention. It serves as a critical component for securing data centers, office networks, and cloud environments. They implement it to manage site-to-site connections, secure remote access, and detect malicious activities. Many companies deploy it for security and traffic control, integrating with other systems like SAP and OpenVPN, adapting for both on-premises and cloud-based applications for various industries like finance and retail.

Service and Support

Many users resolve issues themselves through forums and online resources. A few have contacted OPNsense support with positive results, though some find support less accessible. Community assistance is frequently used, and information is abundant online. Users generally self-manage technical aspects, with some expressing that the service could improve. Local support is often preferred for smaller entities due to perceived high costs and less accessibility.

Deployment

OPNsense's initial setup is often described as easy and straightforward. Many users report deployment times ranging from minutes to a few days, with minimal difficulty if equipped with basic firewall knowledge. Some express minor issues, such as with VPN reliability or complex IP configurations, yet most find that setup requires only one person. Users familiar with network systems or equipped with prior experience have an even quicker and smoother setup process.

Scalability

OPNsense exhibits strong scalability across diverse user environments. Companies appreciate its adaptability in accommodating varying user loads, and many highlight its flexibility with hardware and VM deployments. While successfully supporting thousands of users, some note potential limitations for large enterprise-scale demands. It's rated highly for scaling capabilities, often ranging from seven to nine out of ten, although hardware adjustments may enhance performance. Specific scenarios, like handling voice traffic, present challenges, yet it remains a popular choice for many organizations.

Stability

OPNsense demonstrates consistent stability for many, yet some face issues with VPN and high availability transitions. While deployment on older hardware might show reliability concerns, newer setups tend to perform better. Users appreciate smooth performance, though certain features might require further updates. Resource allocation and updates can affect performance, but typically, OPNsense provides a stable operational environment. Some users rate stability highly, despite periodic issues with specific configurations and network demands.
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
Company SizeCount
Small Business23
Midsize Enterprise3
Large Enterprise6
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business1373
Midsize Enterprise714
Large Enterprise1455
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
16%
Comms Service Provider
15%
University
6%
Educational Organization
6%
Manufacturing Company
6%
Government
6%
Financial Services Firm
5%
Media Company
4%
Retailer
4%
Hospitality Company
4%
Non Profit
3%
Healthcare Company
3%
Energy/Utilities Company
3%
Outsourcing Company
3%
Construction Company
2%
Insurance Company
2%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Transportation Company
1%
Performing Arts
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%

Compare OPNsense with alternative products

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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.

Related questions

  • 245
What is the difference between PfSense and OPNsense?
  • 37
Can you recommend any good documentation on OPNsense NGINX plug-in (WAF rules)?
  • 363
Why is pfSense's firewall better than OPNsense's?
  • 68
​What do you recommend for a corporate firewall implementation?
  • 93
Comparison of Barracuda F800, SonicWall 5600 and Fortinet
  • 349
Sophos XG 210 vs Fortigate FG 100E
  • 104
Which is the best network firewall for a small retailer?
  • 120
When evaluating Firewalls, what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 57
Cyberoam or Fortinet?
  • 454
Fortinet, Palo Alto or Check Point?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Firewalls

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OPNsense Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Senior Client Solutions Architect at a tech services company with 1,001-5,000 employees4.5I am a Sales Engineer using OPNsense for demos on the road due to its ease of use, stability, and features like Zenarmor and Tailscale. Although Grafana integrations could improve, it offers significant operational benefits over Check Point and FortiNet.
Senior Network Engineer at a comms service provider with 11-50 employees4.0I primarily use OPNsense for network security, appreciating its reliable firewall and GeoIP features. It's stable and easy to upgrade. However, improvements are needed for handling large voice and data traffic. Compared to FortiGate, I find OPNsense more user-friendly.
Owner at Networks srl4.0I rely on OPNsense for its strong network intrusion detection and prevention capabilities, though its APIs need more development for better threat automation. It improved our threat response time significantly compared to our previous use of Cisco ASA 5505.
System and Network Administrator at El Sadat City Language School3.5I use OPNsense primarily for managing security and network traffic. Its DNS filtering and VPN functionality are valuable, but the interface and bundle management need improvement. Supporting additional virtualization platforms would enhance its usability for larger companies.
IT Manager at Pride in Azure4.0I find OPNsense's Dual WAN feature highly valuable for its advanced capabilities and cost-effective communication. I appreciate its security aspects but would like better documentation and community support for the free edition, especially for home users.
IT Security Director at a financial services firm with 1,001-5,000 employees4.5I find OPNsense to be an effective open-source firewall solution with an easy-to-use web interface and reliable VPN functionality, offering quick ROI and being more versatile compared to Cisco or Fortinet. Improved reporting capabilities would enhance its utility for management presentations.
Project Manager at CC GmbH3.5I appreciate OPNsense for its firewall and VPN capabilities, which I find valuable. However, it needs improvement in scalability. Although I'm satisfied with its VPN configuration, I prefer Azure Firewall due to limited experience with other Windows-based solutions.
Cloud Projects Director at France Compétences4.5I use OPNsense to secure our network and manage my kids' internet usage. It's open-source, easy to use, and requires minimal ongoing maintenance. However, the user interface and DNS section could be more intuitive. I've previously used pfSense and openWRT.