IPFire vs Untangle NG Firewall

January 10, 2025 | Author: Michael Stromann
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IPFire
IPFire is a hardened, versatile, state-of-the-art Open Source firewall based on Linux. Its ease of use, high performance in any scenario and extensibility make it usable for everyone.
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Untangle NG Firewall
Untangle NG Firewall is a Debian-based network gateway with pluggable modules for network applications like spam blocking, web filtering, anti-virus, anti-spyware, intrusion prevention, VPN, SSL VPN, firewall, and more.

Picture, if you will, two remarkably clever digital sentinels: IPFire and Untangle NG Firewall. Both are fiercely dedicated to keeping the unruly hordes of malicious packets at bay while ensuring your network behaves itself. They dabble in VPNs, dabble in intrusion prevention and even meddle in web filtering, all while leaving small businesses, schools and overly paranoid homeowners feeling rather clever for installing them.

IPFire, born in 2005 amidst the precision engineering of Germany, is like that charmingly minimalist gadget you have to assemble yourself. It adores modularity, thrives on simplicity and positively revels in running on whatever ancient computer you’ve dug out of your attic. It quietly mutters to itself, “Free for all,” but will graciously accept payment for more advanced assistance. It’s for those who think clicking buttons to configure firewalls is rather quaint and enjoy getting their hands a little techy.

Meanwhile, Untangle NG Firewall, a product of 2003 and the USA’s flair for user-friendliness, breezes into the room with a sleek interface and a penchant for pleasing small-to-medium-sized enterprises. It doesn’t just guard networks; it provides analytics, dashboards and the occasional smug sense of professional accomplishment. Unlike its German cousin, it’s got a subscription model that says, “I’m free, but only if you’re not greedy,” making it ideal for businesses that enjoy splurging a little on polished protection.

See also: Top 10 Firewall software
Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email [email protected]