mikrotik-routers-and-switches-vs-pfsense

MikroTik and pfSense both offer firewall solutions that leverage software to allow devices to function as network firewalls.  MikroTik primarily provides routers and switches, but their RouterOS software acts as a software based firewall solution.  pfSense is an open source firewall solution that businesses are able to access for free.  Most likely due to pricing, pfSense is most popular with small businesses.

Features

MikroTik and pfSense can both be used to protect business networks through firewalls, but they also have a few standout features that set them apart from each other.

MikroTik’s RouterOS software is very low demand and flexible enough to fit on most devices or virtual machines without taking up much space.  MikroTik RouterOS can also be installed on all sorts of drives, from USB to SATA.  This makes MikroTik a good choice for organizations looking for software that can function on low performance machines.

pfSense firewall is an open source tool, making it highly customizable for a skilled team that can take advantage of access to the source code. Additionally, pfSense includes advanced features such as SSL encryption and customizable content filtering.  pfSense is an ideal choice for businesses looking for a highly customizable, high performance firewall option. 

Limitations

MikroTik and pfSense both provide essential firewall features, such as customizable routing, but they also have a few limitations that are important to consider. 

MikroTik RouterOS is a proprietary firewall solution, so it isn’t as accessible, or as customizable as open source solutions like pfSense.  Additionally, MikroTik provides excellent routing features but is weaker when it comes to features like SSL encryption.  Businesses looking for more powerful security features may prefer a solution like pfSense.

pfSense offers significant flexibility and powerful features, but it is also a heavier piece of software compared to RouterOS.  Businesses looking for the lightest possible software that can run on very low power machines may prefer Mikrotik’s firewall solution.  Support for pfSense is also limited for businesses that use pfSense for free rather than purchasing hardware from pfSense.

Pricing

Pricing for bothe MikroTik firewall solutions and pfSense firewall solutions is highly dependent on how it is used.  MikroTik hardware including their firewall solutions start as low as $70.00

Businesses can access and utilize pfSense firewall for free, but it is also included in their hardware and cloud packages.  Cloud pricing starts as low as $0.08 per hour.  In contrast, hardware packages including firewalls start as low as $150.00.