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    One interface

    Scheduled Pinned Locked Moved General pfSense Questions
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    • M
      matrix2113
      last edited by

      I'm trying to add a pfSense into my homelab with existing equipment. I have an Optiplex 5050 Micro with only one ethernet port.

      Would I be able to plug a switch into the Optiplex and then run a cable from the modem into the switch for WAN?

      Sorry if this is a bit confusing, I'm still a little new with this. Thanks!

      GertjanG JKnottJ 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
      • stephenw10S
        stephenw10 Netgate Administrator
        last edited by

        You can install pfSense with only one interface as a test but it can't route traffic like that. Unless you add, for example, a VPN as a second interface.
        If you only have one NIC you would typically use VLANs to provide the required interfaces but that needs a VLAN capable switch.

        Steve

        M 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
        • M
          matrix2113 @stephenw10
          last edited by

          Got it, so I have to have 2 NICs but the LAN port could plug into a switch and route everything else?

          Andy

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          • GertjanG
            Gertjan @matrix2113
            last edited by Gertjan

            @matrix2113 said in One interface:

            I have an Optiplex 5050 Micro with only one ethernet port.

            They have made a video just for you ;)

            You'll be needing a smart switch with VLAN capabilities.

            See here for a walk-through pfsense on 1 network/ethernet port PC using VLANS or here.

            edit : this VLAN capable switch has to have at least 3 ports for the connection :
            Your real WAN port (going to your ISP router)
            Your real LAN port, going to another switch, and this might be an inexpensive ;) 200+ port switch if you have 200 LAN network devices.
            A VLAN Trunk port that goes to pfSense - over this interface you have your WAN traffic and your LAN traffic.

            Btw : firewalls, routers, see them as traffic intersections, have always at least two ports.
            Same thing for switches of course : two ports at least.

            No "help me" PM's please. Use the forum, the community will thank you.
            Edit : and where are the logs ??

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            • JKnottJ
              JKnott @matrix2113
              last edited by

              @matrix2113

              You could use a VLAN and managed switch to separate WAN & LAN interfaces.

              PfSense running on Qotom mini PC
              i5 CPU, 4 GB memory, 32 GB SSD & 4 Intel Gb Ethernet ports.
              UniFi AC-Lite access point

              I haven't lost my mind. It's around here...somewhere...

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