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HKUXZR Micro Firewall Appliance Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

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The hkuxzr micro firewall appliance alternatives list helps you find similar hardware for your network needs. You might look for other options if you need more ports, a faster processor, or a different brand. The original HKUXZR J5005 model offers four 2.5GbE ports and a fanless design for silent operation. It uses an Intel Celeron J5005 processor and comes as a barebone system, meaning you must add RAM and storage yourself. This setup suits users who want a quiet, compact device for custom routing software like pfSense or OPNsense.

We selected these 6 alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original unit. Each option provides barebone flexibility and 2.5G networking capabilities. Some models offer more LAN ports for complex home lab setups. Others feature newer processors like the Intel N100 or Core i3 for higher throughput. You can choose based on your specific port density requirements or budget constraints. All listed devices maintain the fanless, silent operation that defines this category. This guide compares them strictly by their published specs to help you decide which hardware fits your network architecture best.

Our top pick: HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC.

Comparing Alternative Firewall Mini PCs

UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC

The UDPTCP Celeron N5105 offers a more modern quad-core processor compared to the HKUXZR J5005 dual-core. Both units are fanless and feature four 2.5GbE ports, making them suitable for similar silent routing tasks. The N5105 provides better single-thread performance for handling complex firewall rules or virtual machines. You get the same barebone flexibility, meaning you must supply your own RAM and SSD. Choose this model if you want slightly stronger processing power while maintaining the same compact, noise-free form factor and network interface count as the original.

VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

The VNOPN J3710 uses an older quad-core processor that is less powerful than the HKUXZR J5005. It retains the fanless design and four 2.5GbE ports, ensuring silent operation for basic routing needs. This unit is smaller in height, measuring 1.46 inches versus 1.69 inches, which helps in tight mounting spaces. You sacrifice processing speed for a lower price point and compact size. Pick this alternative if your network traffic is light and you prioritize physical size and cost over raw computational throughput for advanced network services.

Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC

The Protectli Vault FW4B is a well-known brand in the firewall space, offering a similar four-port 2.5GbE layout and fanless cooling. It uses an older Celeron processor, which may be slower than the HKUXZR J5005 in modern workloads. The chassis is slightly smaller in width and length, measuring 4.3 by 4.5 inches. It remains a barebone unit requiring separate RAM and storage. Select this option if you prefer established brand support and a proven track record for reliability, accepting potentially older internal components for a trusted ecosystem.

Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC

The Glovary N150 steps up to an Intel N100 processor and includes six 2.5GbE ports instead of four. This provides greater network flexibility for complex homelab setups requiring multiple segmented networks. It also supports DDR5 memory, which is faster than the DDR4 found in the HKUXZR model. The chassis is larger and heavier, measuring 7.09 inches in length. Choose this unit if you need more physical network interfaces and modern memory standards, accepting a bigger footprint and higher cost for enhanced routing capabilities.

Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

The Glovary J6413 features a J6413 processor, which is more powerful than the HKUXZR J5005. It maintains the four 2.5GbE port configuration and fanless design for quiet operation. This model is ideal for users who need better multi-core performance for virtualization or heavy packet inspection. Like the original, it is a barebone system requiring you to install RAM and storage. Opt for this alternative if you want a significant performance boost while keeping the same network port count and silent, compact form factor.

UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC

The UDPTCP i3-1215U model offers a modern Core i3 processor with DDR5 memory support, outperforming the HKUXZR J5005 significantly. It provides six 2.5GbE ports, offering higher density for advanced network segmentation. The unit is larger and heavier, weighing 4.5 pounds. It is designed for users who need substantial processing power and modern memory speeds for demanding firewall tasks. Select this option if you prioritize raw performance and port density over the smaller size and older technology found in the original barebone appliance.

Quick picks

#ProductBest forPrice
1 HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC Best overall silent multi-gigabit custom firewall deployments Check price of HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC on Amazon
2 UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC Also great custom pfSense or OPNsense router builds Check price of UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC on Amazon
3 VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Best budget Silent, barebone firewall setups Check price of VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC on Amazon
4 Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC Also great Silent, barebone firewall setups Check price of Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC on Amazon
5 Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC Best premium six-port multi-segment 2.5GbE routing setups Check price of Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC on Amazon
6 Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Also great quiet 2.5G networking and home labs Check price of Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC on Amazon
7 UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC Best intel core i3 High-port-density custom firewall builds Check price of UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC on Amazon

Our 7 picks

Best overall

HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC

Best for: silent multi-gigabit custom firewall deployments

Processor
Celeron J5005
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Graphics
UHD graphics
Ethernet Ports
4x 2.5GbE
Operating System
No OS (Barebone)

View on Amazon: HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC Affiliate link

This fanless barebone mini PC functions as a dedicated network appliance powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron J5005 processor. It features four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports for high-throughput routing. Because it ships without RAM, storage, or an operating system, it suits you if you want to assemble your own silent home firewall using custom software.

Pros

  • Four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE Ethernet ports
  • Fanless design for silent, noise-free operation
  • Supports 2.5-inch SATA HDD/SSD storage expansion up to 2TB
  • Dual DDR4 SO-DIMM memory slots

Cons

  • Barebone system ships without installed memory, storage, or operating system
  • Total RAM capacity tops out at 8GB

Good fit if

  • You want four 2.5GbE network interfaces for multi-gigabit routing.
  • You plan to supply your own DDR4 memory, storage drive, and firewall OS.
  • You need completely silent, fanless hardware for your network setup.

Skip if

  • You need a turnkey system with pre-installed memory, storage, and software.
  • You require more than 8GB of RAM for heavy virtualization workloads.

Verdict: HKUXZR Fanless 4-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC fits network administrators and home lab builders who want to configure their own silent 2.5-gigabit routing hardware from scratch.

Also great

UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC

Best for: custom pfSense or OPNsense router builds

Processor
Intel Celeron N5105
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Memory Type
DDR4
Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics
Ethernet Ports
4x 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

The UDPTCP N5105 firewall appliance offers four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust network throughput. Powered by a quad-core Celeron N5105 processor, it handles encrypted traffic efficiently with AES-NI support. The barebone chassis includes dual DDR4 slots and storage options, allowing you to customize RAM and SSD capacity. It supports dual 4K displays and runs major router operating systems like pfSense and OPNsense. This unit suits users needing reliable, high-speed routing hardware.

Pros

  • Four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports
  • Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor
  • Supports dual 4K@60Hz displays via HDMI and DP
  • Dual DDR4 RAM slots for up to 16GB
  • Includes M.2 NVMe and 2.5-inch SATA storage bays

Cons

  • Sold as a barebone system without RAM or SSD
  • Requires user installation of router operating systems
  • Lacks built-in Wi-Fi, requiring separate SIM or PCIE adapter

Good fit if

  • You need four dedicated 2.5GbE ports for your network
  • You prefer building your own firewall OS environment
  • You want to upgrade RAM and storage independently

Skip if

  • You want a pre-configured appliance with software pre-installed
  • You need immediate plug-and-play operation without assembly
  • You require built-in wireless connectivity without adapters

Verdict: The UDPTCP Celeron N5105 4-Port Firewall provides essential 2.5G networking and expandable storage for custom router builds. It fits users who value hardware flexibility over out-of-the-box software convenience.

Best budget

VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

Best for: Silent, barebone firewall setups

Processor
Intel J3710
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Memory Type
DDR3
Ethernet Ports
4x 2.5GbE
Use
Firewall

View on Amazon: VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

This VNOPN barebone mini PC uses an Intel J3710 quad-core processor with AES-NI support. It features four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports for high-speed networking. The unit is fanless and weighs 500g, making it suitable for silent operation. You must install your own DDR3 RAM and mSATA SSD. It supports open-source operating systems like pfSense for firewall applications.

Pros

  • Four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports
  • Intel J3710 CPU with AES-NI support
  • Fanless aluminum alloy design for silent operation
  • Includes VESA mount for space-saving installation

Cons

  • Intel J3710 processor is older than N100 or J6413 alternatives
  • Requires separate purchase of DDR3 RAM and mSATA SSD
  • Supports only up to 8GB of RAM

Good fit if

  • You need a silent, fanless firewall appliance
  • You want to use open-source software like pfSense
  • You prefer a compact unit with VESA mounting options

Skip if

  • You require a modern processor like the Intel N100
  • You need the system to arrive with RAM and storage installed
  • You plan to run heavy workloads beyond firewall duties

Verdict: VNOPN Fanless Firewall Mini PC offers a quiet, compact solution for basic routing tasks. It fits users who prioritize silent operation and are willing to handle RAM and storage installation themselves.

Also great

Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC

Best for: Silent, barebone firewall setups

Processor
Intel Celeron J3160
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Ethernet Ports
4x Intel Gigabit Ethernet
Use
Firewall
Dimensions
4.5 × 4.3 × 1.5 inches

View on Amazon: Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC Affiliate link

The Protectli Vault FW4B is a fanless, silent micro appliance built for network security. It features an Intel Celeron J3160 quad-core processor running up to 2.2GHz with AES-NI hardware support. You get four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports for reliable connectivity. This barebone unit requires you to install your own RAM and storage, offering maximum customizability for your specific firewall software needs.

Pros

  • Fanless and silent operation
  • Four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Intel Celeron J3160 with AES-NI support
  • Compact 4.3 x 4.5 x 1.5 inch design

Cons

  • Only Gigabit Ethernet, not 2.5G
  • Barebone with no RAM or SSD included
  • Older Celeron J3160 processor

Good fit if

  • You need a silent, fanless firewall
  • You want to use open-source software like pfSense
  • You prefer to install your own RAM and storage

Skip if

  • You require 2.5G network ports
  • You want a pre-installed operating system
  • You need higher processing power than the J3160 offers

Verdict: Protectli Vault FW4B Fanless Firewall suits users who prioritize silent operation and barebone flexibility over raw speed or modern 2.5G ports.

Best premium

Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC

Best for: six-port multi-segment 2.5GbE routing setups

Processor
Intel N150
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Memory Type
DDR5
Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics
Ethernet Ports
6x 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

This barebone appliance runs an Intel N150 processor and provides six 2.5GbE Intel i226-V network ports. You get a single DDR5 memory slot, two M.2 NVMe storage slots, and a fanless aluminum chassis. It suits multi-segment routing setups where four Ethernet ports fall short and you prefer supplying your own memory, storage drive, and operating system.

Pros

  • Six 2.5GbE Intel i226-V Ethernet ports
  • Intel N150 quad-core processor with 6W TDP
  • Dual M.2 NVMe slots plus SATA 3.0 connector
  • DDR5 SO-DIMM memory support

Cons

  • Barebone unit ships without memory, storage, or an operating system
  • Single DDR5 memory slot limits RAM to single-channel mode

Good fit if

  • You need six physical 2.5GbE interfaces for complex network zoning.
  • You prefer sourcing your own DDR5 RAM and NVMe storage.
  • You want silent fanless operation in an aluminum enclosure.

Skip if

  • You want a turnkey appliance with pre-installed RAM, storage, and software.
  • You only need four network interfaces for standard routing.

Verdict: Glovary N150 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC is built for advanced homelab routing when standard four-port appliances do not provide enough physical network interfaces. It delivers modern DDR5 compatibility and six 2.5GbE connections for users configuring custom barebone hardware.

Also great

Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

Best for: quiet 2.5G networking and home labs

Processor
Celeron J6413
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Memory Type
DDR4
Graphics
UHD Graphics
Ethernet Ports
4 x 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

This Glovary barebone unit uses a Celeron J6413 processor with four cores and up to 3.0 GHz. It features four i226V 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust networking. The fanless aluminum design ensures quiet operation. You get two DDR4 RAM slots and multiple storage options. This setup suits users needing a dedicated, efficient firewall appliance for home labs or small offices.

Pros

  • Celeron J6413 processor with 4 cores
  • Four i226V 2.5GbE LAN ports
  • Fanless aluminum alloy construction
  • Supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
  • Dual display output via HDMI and USB-C

Cons

  • Sold as barebone with no RAM or SSD included
  • J6413 is less powerful than N100 or i3 alternatives
  • Only two SATA slots limit large local storage expansion

Good fit if

  • You want a quiet, fanless firewall device
  • You need four 2.5GbE ports for routing
  • You prefer to install your own RAM and storage

Skip if

  • You need a pre-configured system with RAM and SSD
  • You require high-end processing for heavy virtualization
  • You want more than four network interfaces

Verdict: Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a solid choice for network enthusiasts who value quiet operation and flexible storage. It fits users building a dedicated soft router who already have compatible components.

Best intel core i3

UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC

Best for: High-port-density custom firewall builds

Processor
Intel Core i3-1215U
Installed RAM
Barebone
Storage Capacity
Barebone
Memory Type
DDR5
Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics
Ethernet Ports
6x 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

This UDPTCP firewall appliance features an Intel Core i3-1215U processor with six cores and eight threads. It includes six Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust network handling. The system supports dual DDR5 RAM slots and includes one M.2 NVMe and one SATA storage slot. It runs on barebone hardware, meaning you must supply your own memory and storage. This unit is designed for users who need high port density and modern memory standards.

Pros

  • Six Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports
  • Intel Core i3-1215U with six cores
  • Dual DDR5 RAM slots for modern memory
  • Supports dual 4K display output via HDMI and DP
  • Includes SIM slot for wireless connectivity options

Cons

  • Sold as barebone hardware with no installed RAM or SSD
  • Heavier at 4.5 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
  • Only one year warranty coverage

Good fit if

  • You need six 2.5GbE ports for complex network setups
  • You prefer DDR5 memory for future-proofing
  • You want to install your own RAM and storage

Skip if

  • You require a pre-installed operating system or software
  • You need a fanless design for silent operation
  • You want a lighter device for portable mounting

Verdict: UDPTCP i3-1215U 6-Port Firewall Mini PC offers high port density and DDR5 support for users building custom firewall environments. It suits those who prioritize network throughput and memory speed over pre-installed components.

Specifications side by side

Spec HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC UDPTCP Celeron N5105 Barebone Firewall Mini PC VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC UDPTCP Core i3 6-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC
Processor Celeron J5005 Intel Celeron N5105 Intel J3710 Intel Celeron J3160 Intel N150 Celeron J6413 Intel Core i3-1215U
Installed RAM Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone
Storage Capacity Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone
Memory Type not stated DDR4 DDR3 not stated DDR5 DDR4 DDR5
Graphics UHD graphics Intel UHD Graphics not stated not stated Intel UHD Graphics UHD Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Ethernet Ports 4x 2.5GbE 4x 2.5GbE 4x 2.5GbE 4x Intel Gigabit Ethernet 6x 2.5GbE 4 x 2.5GbE 6x 2.5GbE
Operating System No OS (Barebone) not stated not stated not stated No OS (Barebone) not stated not stated
Use Firewall Firewall Firewall Firewall Firewall Firewall Firewall
Cooling not stated not stated Fanless not stated Fanless not stated not stated
Networking 2.5G LAN 2.5G LAN 2.5G LAN not stated 2.5G LAN 2.5G LAN 2.5G LAN
Form Factor Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone Barebone
Dimensions 5.28 × 4.88 × 1.69 inches not stated 5.28 × 5 × 1.46 inches 4.5 × 4.3 × 1.5 inches 7.09 × 4.92 × 2.17 inches not stated not stated
Weight not stated not stated not stated 1.25 pounds 2.65 pounds not stated 4.5 pounds
Size NO RAM NO SSD No RAM/No SSD mini NO RAM, NO SSD No RAM No SSD Barebone NO RAM NO SSD
Color Black Black Black Black N100 6 LAN Firewall not stated not stated
Model BK-J5005-4L BK-N5105-4L F12 . N100-6L-BA J6413-4L-I226V-2.5GB-0-0 BK-1215-6L

Frequently asked questions

Does the HKUXZR J5005 come with RAM and storage installed?

No, the HKUXZR J5005 is sold as a barebone unit without RAM or SSD. You must purchase and install compatible memory and storage drives yourself. This design allows you to choose components that fit your specific performance needs and budget for your custom firewall build.

Which alternative offers the most network ports for segmenting traffic?

The Glovary N150 provides the highest port density with six 2.5GbE LAN connections. It is ideal for advanced homelab routing where you need to isolate multiple network segments. This model supports modern DDR5 memory, offering enhanced throughput compared to standard four-port appliances.

Are all these firewall mini PCs fanless for silent operation?

Yes, all listed alternatives feature fanless cooling designs to ensure silent operation. This includes the HKUXZR J5005, the VNOPN J3710, and the Protectli Vault. Fanless construction eliminates noise, making these units suitable for home offices or living spaces where quiet performance is a priority.

Can I use the UDPTCP Celeron N5105 for custom pfSense builds?

Yes, the UDPTCP Celeron N5105 is well-suited for custom pfSense or OPNsense router builds. It provides essential 2.5G networking and expandable storage options. This unit offers hardware flexibility, allowing you to configure the software environment exactly as your network requirements dictate.

What processor does the best premium option use?

The Protectli Vault, identified as the best premium option, uses an Intel Celeron processor. It focuses on silent operation and barebone flexibility rather than raw speed or modern 2.5G ports. This makes it a reliable choice for users who prioritize stability and quiet performance.

Which model supports DDR5 memory for faster data processing?

The Glovary N150 and the UDPTCP Core i3 models support DDR5 memory. The Glovary N150 pairs this with six 2.5GbE ports for advanced routing. The UDPTCP i3-1215U model offers high port density and DDR5 support, prioritizing network throughput and memory speed for demanding tasks.

Is the VNOPN J3710 a good choice for a basic budget setup?

Yes, the VNOPN J3710 is labeled as the best budget option. It offers a quiet, compact solution for basic routing tasks with fanless cooling. You will need to handle RAM and storage installation yourself, but it provides a cost-effective entry point for silent barebone firewall setups.

How does the Glovary J6413 differ from the HKUXZR J5005?

The Glovary J6413 is another fanless barebone option suitable for quiet 2.5G networking and home labs. Like the HKUXZR J5005, it requires you to install your own RAM and SSD. It fits users building a dedicated soft router who already have compatible components ready for installation.

See also