6 Best Alternatives to the Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC (2026)
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The Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC remains a strong choice for users building a quiet, dedicated network gateway. If you are searching for protectli vault fw4b alternatives, you likely need different specs or a distinct brand for your network setup. This original appliance excels in providing four Gigabit Ethernet ports and passive cooling, which ensures silent operation for firewall duties. It comes with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, making it suitable for open-source firewall software like pfSense.
However, you might want something else due to specific requirements. Perhaps you need faster 2.5GbE ports for higher throughput, or you only require two network connections for a simpler home setup. Some users may prefer a different form factor, such as a stick PC for digital signage, or a business-oriented unit with Windows pre-installed. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original device in key areas like memory, storage, and cooling design. Each option offers a unique combination of ports, processors, and use cases to help you find the right fit for your specific networking needs without compromising on essential hardware capabilities.
How each alternative compares
Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC
The Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Mini PC keeps the fanless design and four-port layout of the original but upgrades the network interfaces. Instead of standard Gigabit Ethernet, it provides 2.5GbE throughput on all ports. This benefits users who need multi-gigabit speeds for high-bandwidth firewall tasks. The dimensions are slightly larger at 4.56 by 4.25 inches. It retains the same 4GB RAM and 32GB SSD configuration. You should choose this model if your network infrastructure supports faster speeds and you require higher throughput without adding cooling noise.
Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC
The Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC reduces the network interface count from four to two. It uses a Celeron J3060 processor, which is an older chip compared to the J3160 in the original. The physical dimensions match the 2.5G model at 4.56 by 4.25 inches. Storage and memory remain identical with 4GB RAM and 32GB SSD. This option is suitable for users who only need two LAN connections for basic home firewall setups. It offers a simpler configuration if you do not require the extra ports provided by the four-port original model.
ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 differs significantly in form factor and operating system. It is a ChromeOS device rather than an open-source firewall appliance. The unit is thinner at 0.89 inches high but longer at 5.75 inches. It includes a legacy serial port, which the Protectli models lack. The processor is an Intel Celeron with 4GB RAM and 32GB SSD. This model is ideal for digital signage or industrial control where ChromeOS is sufficient. It is not suitable if you need to install pfSense or OPNsense for dedicated network security.
UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC
The UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC offers only two network ports, half the connectivity of the original. It uses a Celeron N2840 processor with 4GB RAM and 64GB SSD. The storage capacity is double that of the Protectli original. The device weighs 4.5 pounds, making it heavier than typical fanless units. It is designed for basic soft routing setups where fanless operation is a priority. You should pick this alternative if you need more storage space and do not require four Ethernet ports for complex network segmentation.
Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny AMD Dual-Core Mini PC
The Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny AMD Mini PC is a business-oriented device running Windows 11 Pro. It lacks the multi-port Ethernet configuration needed for firewall roles, having only standard PC connectivity. The dimensions are larger at 7.05 by 7.2 inches. It weighs 2.9 pounds. This model is practical for light office tasks in small spaces. It is not a direct alternative for network security appliances. Choose this if you need a compact Windows PC for general use rather than a dedicated network gateway with multiple LAN ports.
HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick
The HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick is a stick-shaped device running Windows 11 Pro. It uses an N4100 processor with 4GB RAM and 64GB eMMC storage. The form factor is significantly smaller at 1.93 by 5.5 inches. It is designed for silent digital signage or light office use. It lacks the Ethernet port count required for firewall applications. This model is suitable if you need a compact Windows device for display purposes. It is not appropriate for users building a dedicated network security appliance with multiple network interfaces.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC
Best for: Dedicated four-port firewall appliances
- Processor
- Intel Celeron J3160
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3L
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x Gigabit
- Use
- Firewall
View on Amazon: Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC Affiliate link
The Protectli Vault FW4B is a compact, fanless mini PC designed for network security. It features an Intel Celeron J3160 quad-core processor with AES-NI support for hardware encryption. The unit includes four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it ideal for routing traffic. You get 4GB of DDR3L RAM and 32GB of mSATA storage. It arrives without an operating system, allowing you to install pfSense or OPNsense directly.
Pros
- Four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports for multi-WAN setups
- Intel Celeron J3160 with AES-NI hardware encryption
- Fanless design ensures silent operation and reliability
- Compatible with open-source firewall software like pfSense
Cons
- Only 4GB of RAM limits complex rule sets
- 32GB mSATA storage is tight for large logs
- No operating system pre-installed requires manual setup
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated device for firewall routing
- You want silent operation without moving parts
- You prefer open-source software like pfSense
Skip if
- You require pre-installed Windows or macOS
- You need more than 4GB of RAM
- You want a larger storage capacity than 32GB
Verdict: Protectli FW4B Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a solid choice for users building a quiet, dedicated network gateway with four Ethernet ports. It fits those ready to configure open-source firewall software from scratch.
Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC
Best for: multi-gigabit open-source firewall deployments
- Processor
- Intel J3710
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- Operating System
- No OS pre-installed
View on Amazon: Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC Affiliate link
This fanless appliance serves as a dedicated network router and firewall. You get four Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for multi-gigabit routing, an Intel J3710 quad-core processor with AES-NI encryption support, and 4GB of DDR3 memory. It includes a 32GB solid-state drive and ships without an operating system, making it suitable for custom firewall distributions.
Pros
- Four Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Hardware AES-NI encryption acceleration
- Fanless silent aluminum chassis
- Dual HDMI display outputs and RJ45 console port
Cons
- Uses older DDR3 memory instead of DDR4
- 32GB internal solid-state drive limits onboard storage
- Ships without a pre-installed operating system
Good fit if
- You need four 2.5GbE network interfaces for multi-gigabit local routing.
- You plan to install open-source firewall platforms like pfSense or OPNsense.
- You prefer a silent, passively cooled enclosure without moving parts.
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play machine with Windows or Linux pre-installed.
- You require fast DDR4 RAM or large storage out of the box.
Verdict: Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Firewall Mini PC delivers multi-gigabit networking and passive cooling for administrators building custom open-source firewalls. It gives you 2.5GbE throughput across all physical interfaces without cooling fan noise.
Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC
Best for: Basic home firewall setups
- Processor
- Intel Dual Core Celeron
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3L
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x Intel Gigabit Ethernet
- Use
- Firewall
View on Amazon: Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC Affiliate link
The Protectli Vault FW2B is a compact, fanless mini PC designed for network security. It features an Intel Dual Core Celeron processor and 4GB of DDR3L RAM. The unit includes 32GB of mSATA storage and two Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports. It supports AES-NI hardware acceleration for encryption tasks. This system is ideal for users building a home firewall or soft router. It does not include a pre-installed operating system.
Pros
- Two Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports for dual WAN or LAN connections
- Fanless and silent design with AES-NI hardware support
- Compact dimensions of 4.56 x 4.25 x 1.69 inches
- Compatible with pfSense, OPNsense, and other open-source firewalls
Cons
- Only two Ethernet ports instead of the four found on the FW4B
- Limited 4GB RAM and 32GB storage capacity
- No operating system pre-installed
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated firewall for a small home network
- You want a silent, fanless device for a living space
- You prefer to install your own open-source firewall software
Skip if
- You require four Ethernet ports for complex routing
- You need more than 4GB of RAM for virtualization
- You want a ready-to-use Windows or Linux desktop
Verdict: Protectli FW2B 2-Port Fanless Firewall PC is a solid entry-level option for basic network security tasks. It fits users who need two network connections and do not require high-end processing power.
ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4
Best for: Legacy serial port needs and ChromeOS
- Processor
- Intel 5205U
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Operating System
- Chrome OS
- Cooling
- Fanless
View on Amazon: ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 Affiliate link
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is a compact mini PC running ChromeOS. It features an Intel Celeron 5265U processor, 4GB of DDR4 RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage. The extruded-aluminum chassis supports fanless operation and VESA mounting. It includes RS232 connectivity via RJ50 and supports up to three displays. This unit suits users needing legacy serial ports or dedicated ChromeOS devices.
Pros
- Intel Celeron 5265U processor for stable performance
- Fanless extruded-aluminum chassis for quiet operation
- Legacy RS232 serial port via RJ50 interface
- Supports up to three simultaneous displays
Cons
- Only 4GB of installed RAM
- 32GB eMMC storage is limited for local files
- ChromeOS restricts Windows software compatibility
Good fit if
- You need RS232 serial connectivity for legacy devices
- You prefer a fanless, silent computing environment
- You require a dedicated ChromeOS appliance
Skip if
- You need to run Windows applications
- You require more than 4GB of RAM
- You need high-capacity local storage
Verdict: ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 serves as a specialized tool for users requiring serial connectivity and ChromeOS. It is ideal for digital signage or legacy industrial control where Windows is unnecessary.
UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC
Best for: basic two-port soft routing setups
- Processor
- Celeron N2840
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 64GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3L 1333/1600MHz
- Graphics
- UHD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2 x 1000M
View on Amazon: UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link
This fanless mini PC uses an Intel Celeron N2840 processor with 2 cores and 2 threads. It includes 4GB of DDR3L RAM and a 64GB SSD. The system features two 1GbE LAN ports for network monitoring and security. It supports dual displays via HDMI and VGA. You can install OPNsense, Linux, or Windows on this hardware. It is suitable for basic firewall or soft routing tasks.
Pros
- Intel Celeron N2840 processor with 2.58 GHz max turbo
- Two 1000M Realtek RTL8111H LAN ports
- Supports OPNsense, Linux, Windows, ESXI, and OpenWrt
- Dual display output with HDMI and VGA
Cons
- Only two Ethernet ports instead of four
- Uses older DDR3L memory
- Low storage capacity of 64GB
Good fit if
- You need a basic firewall with two network interfaces
- You want a fanless system for quiet operation
- You plan to run OPNsense or OpenWrt
Skip if
- You require four Ethernet ports for complex routing
- You need high performance for heavy multitasking
- You prefer modern DDR4 or DDR5 memory
Verdict: UDPTCP Celeron N2840 Firewall Mini PC is a capable entry-level appliance for users who only need two LAN ports and basic soft routing capabilities. It fits those who prioritize fanless design and open-source firewall software over raw processing power.
Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny AMD Dual-Core Mini PC
Best for: light office tasks and small spaces
- Processor
- AMD A9-9420e
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 500GB HDD
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon R5
- Ethernet Ports
- 1 x RJ-45
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
View on Amazon: Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny AMD Dual-Core Mini PC Affiliate link
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M625q Tiny is a compact business desktop with Windows 11 Pro. It features an AMD A9-9420e dual-core processor and 4GB of RAM. Storage comes from a 500GB HDD. The chassis measures 7.2 by 7.05 by 1.44 inches. It includes one RJ-45 Ethernet port and multiple USB and DisplayPort options. This unit suits users needing a small form factor for office tasks.
Pros
- Windows 11 Pro operating system included
- Compact 1.44-inch height for tight spaces
- 500GB HDD for ample storage capacity
- Multiple connectivity options including DisplayPort and USB
Cons
- Single RJ-45 Ethernet port limits network flexibility
- 4GB RAM restricts heavy multitasking
- HDD storage is slower than SSD alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a small desktop for basic office work
- You require Windows 11 Pro for business features
- You want a quiet fanless or low-noise environment
Skip if
- You need multiple Ethernet ports for firewall routing
- You require high performance for gaming or video editing
- You prefer SSD storage for faster boot times
Verdict: Lenovo ThinkCentre M625q Tiny is a practical compact PC for light business use, but it lacks the multi-port networking needed for firewall roles.
HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick
Best for: Silent digital signage and light office use
- Processor
- Intel Celeron N4100
- Installed RAM
- 4 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 64 GB
- Memory Type
- LPDDR4
- Ethernet Ports
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
View on Amazon: HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick Affiliate link
This fanless Mini PC Stick uses an Intel Celeron N4100 processor and includes 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM with 64GB of eMMC storage. It runs Windows 11 Pro and features Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band WiFi. The passive cooling design ensures silent operation, making it suitable for digital signage or light office work. You can expand storage via a Micro SD slot up to 1TB. Its compact stick form factor mounts easily behind displays.
Pros
- Intel Celeron N4100 quad-core processor
- 64GB eMMC storage with Micro SD expansion
- Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro
- Silent fanless passive cooling design
- Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band WiFi
Cons
- Only 4GB of RAM limits multitasking
- Bluetooth 4.2 is an older standard
- 64GB storage fills up quickly with OS
Good fit if
- You need a silent display for digital signage
- You want a compact stick for behind a monitor
- You require Windows 11 Pro for basic tasks
Skip if
- You need high performance for heavy workloads
- You require fast Bluetooth 5.0 or higher
- You need more than 4GB of RAM
Verdict: HEIGAOLAPC N4100 4GB 64GB Stick PC fits users who need a silent, compact Windows 11 device for digital signage or light office tasks. It is not suitable for power users needing more RAM or faster wireless standards.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC | Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC | Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC | ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 | UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC | Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny AMD Dual-Core Mini PC | HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron J3160 | Intel J3710 | Intel Dual Core Celeron | Intel 5205U | Celeron N2840 | AMD A9-9420e | Intel Celeron N4100 |
| Installed RAM | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4 GB |
| Storage Capacity | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB | 64GB | 500GB HDD | 64 GB |
| Memory Type | DDR3L | DDR3 | DDR3L | DDR4 | DDR3L 1333/1600MHz | not stated | LPDDR4 |
| Graphics | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | UHD Graphics | AMD Radeon R5 | not stated |
| Ethernet Ports | 4x Gigabit | 4x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet | 2x Intel Gigabit Ethernet | not stated | 2 x 1000M | 1 x RJ-45 | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Operating System | not stated | No OS pre-installed | not stated | Chrome OS | not stated | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro |
| Memory | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM |
| Storage | 32GB SSD | 32GB SSD | 32GB SSD | 32GB SSD | not stated | not stated | 64GB eMMC |
| Use | Firewall | Firewall | Firewall | not stated | Firewall | Business | not stated |
| Cooling | not stated | not stated | not stated | Fanless | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Networking | not stated | 2.5G LAN | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Stick PC |
| Dimensions | 4.5 × 4.3 × 1.5 inches | 4.25 × 4.56 × 1.69 inches | 4.25 × 4.56 × 1.69 inches | 5.75 × 4.11 × 0.89 inches | not stated | 7.2 × 7.05 × 1.44 inches | 5.5 × 1.93 × 0.35 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2.2 pounds | 4.5 pounds | 2.9 pounds | 2.8 pounds |
| Size | 4GB RAM, 32GB SSD | 4GB RAM, 32GB SSD | 4GB RAM, 32GB SSD | 4GB RAM | 32GB eMMC | 4GB RAM 64GB SSD | not stated | N4100 4+64G |
| Color | Black | black | Black | BLACK | not stated | Black | N4100 4+64G |
| Model | FW4B-0-4-32 | Vault | J3060 | CHROMEBOX4-FC017U | G30-N2840-2L | ThinkCentre M625q | N4100 4+64G |
When planning your workspace layout, you can evaluate tangkula 48 alternatives for different physical dimensions and configuration options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny for a firewall?
No, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M625q Tiny is not suitable for this role. The data indicates it lacks the multi-port networking required for firewall deployments. It is designed for light office tasks and business use with Windows 11 Pro, rather than dedicated network security appliances.
Which alternative offers the fastest Ethernet ports?
The Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Mini PC provides the fastest connectivity. It delivers 2.5GbE throughput across all four physical interfaces. This supports multi-gigabit open-source firewall deployments while maintaining passive cooling and a quiet fanless design for administrators.
Is there a fanless option with more storage than the original?
Yes, the UDPTCP Fanless Dual LAN Firewall Mini PC includes 64GB of SSD storage. This is double the 32GB found in the original Protectli FW4B. It also features a fanless design and is built for basic soft routing setups.
Does any alternative include a serial port?
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is the only listed device noted for legacy serial port needs. It runs ChromeOS and serves specialized users requiring serial connectivity for digital signage or industrial control, rather than standard firewall software.
What is the best budget-friendly two-port option?
The Protectli Vault 2-Port Fanless Mini PC is the recommended budget choice. It provides two network connections for basic home firewall setups. It uses 4GB of RAM and 32GB of SSD storage, fitting users who do not need high-end processing power.
Can I use a HEIGAOLAPC stick for networking?
No, the HEIGAOLAPC Fanless Mini PC Stick is not suitable for networking roles. It is designed for silent digital signage and light office use with Windows 11 Pro. It lacks the necessary Ethernet ports for firewall or routing tasks.
Which model is best for multi-gigabit speeds?
The Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Mini PC is best for multi-gigabit speeds. It offers 2.5GbE throughput on all ports without cooling fan noise. This makes it ideal for administrators building custom open-source firewalls that require higher bandwidth.