Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC or Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC? Which Protectli Model to Buy
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The protectli vault fw4b vs vault fw4c comparison helps you choose the right firewall appliance. Both units are compact, fanless mini PCs designed for network security. They share identical storage, RAM, and operating system options. The main difference lies in the processor and network speed. The FW4B uses an older Celeron chip with standard gigabit ports. The FW4C features a newer Pentium processor and faster 2.5G Ethernet interfaces. This guide breaks down the specs so you can decide which model fits your network needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC | Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron J3160, up to 2.2GHz | Intel J3710 Pentium, burst to 2.6GHz |
| Ethernet Ports | 4x Gigabit | 4x 2.5 Gigabit |
| Memory Type | DDR3L | DDR3 |
| Dimensions | 4.3 x 1.5 x 4.5 inches | 4.56 x 1.69 x 4.25 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC if
- You need standard gigabit speeds for smaller home networks.
- You prefer a slightly smaller footprint for tight mounting spaces.
- You want the lower-cost entry point for basic firewall tasks.
Choose Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC if
- You have a gigabit-plus internet plan and need to utilize full speeds.
- You want a newer processor architecture for better multi-threaded performance.
- You plan to run heavier firewall rules or more complex network services.
Verdict: Choose the FW4B if your internet connection stays under 1Gbps and you need a compact, reliable base. The FW4C is the better choice if you have faster internet or require the extra processing headroom from the Pentium chip. Both models support the same open-source firewall software.
FW4B vs FW4C Spec Comparison
processor performance
The Protectli Vault FW4B uses an Intel Celeron J3160 quad-core processor that boosts up to 2.2GHz. This chip provides solid baseline performance for standard firewall tasks. The Protectli Vault FW4C upgrades to an Intel J3710 Pentium quad-core processor. It runs at 1.6GHz but can burst up to 2.6GHz. The higher burst speed in the FW4C allows for better handling of heavier network loads. You will notice a difference in throughput capacity when managing multiple concurrent connections. The FW4C offers a clear advantage here due to its superior clock speeds and newer architecture.
networking speed
Network connectivity is the most significant difference between these two models. The FW4B is equipped with four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports. This limits your maximum throughput to 1Gbps per port. The FW4C features four Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports. This upgrade allows for speeds up to 2.5Gbps per port. If you have a fiber internet connection or high-speed local network, the FW4C is essential. It prevents bottlenecks that occur with standard Gigabit ports. For users with slower internet plans, the extra speed may go unused, but the FW4C provides future-proofing.
memory and storage
Both units come with identical memory and storage configurations in this specific SKU comparison. Each model includes 4GB of DDR3L or DDR3 RAM. The FW4B specifies DDR3L, which is typically lower voltage, while the FW4C lists DDR3. Both provide 32GB of mSATA SSD storage. This storage is sufficient for most firewall operating systems like pfSense or OPNsense. Since the RAM and storage capacities are the same, neither product holds an advantage here. You get the same capacity for your firewall rules and logs on either machine.
physical dimensions
The physical size of these mini PCs differs slightly. The FW4B measures 4.3 inches in width, 1.5 inches in height, and 4.5 inches in length. The FW4C is slightly wider at 4.56 inches and taller at 1.69 inches, but slightly shorter in length at 4.25 inches. The FW4B is marginally more compact in height, which might matter if you are stacking units. The FW4C is wider, potentially affecting fit in tight rack spaces. Both are fanless and silent. The difference is minor, but the FW4B has a slight edge for vertical stacking due to its lower profile.
compatibility
Both mini PCs are designed to run open-source firewall software. The product data states that both models are tested with pfSense, Untangle, and OPNsense. Neither unit comes with a pre-installed operating system. You must install your preferred software yourself. The hardware compatibility is effectively identical for these common distributions. The AES-NI hardware support is present in both, ensuring secure encryption performance. There is no practical difference in software support between the two. You can use either model with your chosen firewall solution without issues.
Which Protectli Vault Model Fits You
You need 2.5G network speeds
The FW4C features four 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports. This allows you to utilize internet plans faster than standard Gigabit speeds. The Intel J3710 processor also offers higher burst speeds up to 2.6 GHz. If your connection exceeds 1 Gbps, this model handles the traffic efficiently without bottlenecking your throughput.
You prefer a compact footprint
The FW4B measures 4.3 inches wide and 4.5 inches long. It sits lower at 1.5 inches in height compared to the FW4C. This smaller physical profile helps you fit the device into tighter spaces. If your rack or shelf has limited dimensions, the FW4B offers a tighter fit for your setup.
You want standard Gigabit speeds
The FW4B includes four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports. This is sufficient for most home and small office networks that do not exceed 1 Gbps. You get the same 4GB RAM and 32GB SSD storage as the other model. If you do not need 2.5G ports, this unit meets your baseline networking requirements perfectly.
The products compared
Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC
Best for: basic firewall and routing tasks
- 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 fanless mini PC built for network security tasks. It features an Intel Celeron J3160 quad-core processor and 4GB of DDR3L RAM. The unit includes four gigabit Ethernet ports and 32GB of mSATA storage. Its compact, silent design suits firewall appliances. You get US-based support. This model works well for basic routing and firewall duties.
Pros
- Four gigabit Ethernet ports
- Fanless and silent operation
- Intel Celeron J3160 processor
- Hardware AES-NI support
Cons
- Only 4GB of installed RAM
- Small 32GB storage capacity
- No operating system pre-installed
Good fit if
- You need a quiet firewall appliance
- You require four gigabit network ports
- You plan to install open-source software
Skip if
- You need high-performance processing
- You require large local storage
- You want a ready-to-use OS
Verdict: Protectli Vault FW4B Fanless Mini PC is a compact, silent option for users who need four gigabit ports for basic firewall duties. It suits those willing to configure their own open-source software.
Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC
Best for: multi-gigabit network routing and firewalls
- 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 firewall mini PC provides four 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-bandwidth home or small office routing. It runs on a quad-core Intel J3710 processor with AES-NI support, paired with 4GB DDR3 RAM and a 32GB SSD. You get two HDMI ports and an RJ45 console port for straightforward setup using open-source firewall platforms.
Pros
- Four Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports
- Intel J3710 quad-core processor with AES-NI support
- Dual HDMI outputs and an RJ45 COM port
- Silent, fanless chassis design
Cons
- Uses DDR3 memory rather than newer DDR4
- Internal storage capacity is limited to 32GB
Good fit if
- You need 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for multi-gigabit routing.
- You run open-source firewall software such as pfSense or OPNsense.
Skip if
- You require more than 32GB of internal storage capacity.
- You need modern DDR4 or DDR5 system memory.
Verdict: Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Mini PC fits home network administrators who need 2.5GbE throughput for multi-gigabit routing and firewall tasks. Its compact fanless build delivers silent operation for continuous network deployments.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Protectli Vault 4-Port Fanless Mini PC | Protectli Vault 4-Port 2.5G Fanless Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron J3160 | Intel J3710 |
| Installed RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Storage Capacity | 32GB | 32GB |
| Memory Type | DDR3L | DDR3 |
| Ethernet Ports | 4x Gigabit | 4x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Operating System | not stated | No OS pre-installed |
| Memory | 4GB RAM | 4GB RAM |
| Storage | 32GB SSD | 32GB SSD |
| Use | Firewall | Firewall |
| Networking | not stated | 2.5G LAN |
| Dimensions | 4.5 × 4.3 × 1.5 inches | 4.25 × 4.56 × 1.69 inches |
| Size | 4GB RAM, 32GB SSD | 4GB RAM, 32GB SSD |
| Color | Black | black |
| Model | FW4B-0-4-32 | Vault |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Protectli FW4C have faster network ports than the FW4B?
Yes, the FW4C includes four 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports. This allows you to utilize internet plans faster than standard Gigabit speeds. The FW4B is limited to standard gigabit connectivity. If your internet service exceeds 1Gbps, the FW4C is the necessary choice. The extra bandwidth ensures your network hardware does not become a bottleneck for high-speed connections.
Is the Protectli FW4B suitable for basic firewall duties?
Yes, the FW4B is a compact, silent option for users who need four gigabit ports for basic firewall duties. It suits those willing to configure their own open-source software. The Intel Celeron J3160 processor provides solid baseline performance for standard tasks. It is an ideal entry point for home lab users starting with network security.
What is the difference in RAM between these two mini PCs?
Both models feature identical memory configurations. They each come with 4GB of RAM. This shared specification means multitasking capabilities remain the same across both units. You do not need to upgrade your memory expectations based on the model. The focus for both machines is on stable network performance rather than heavy computing loads.
Can I use the Protectli FW4C for custom firewall setups?
Yes, the FW4C is a solid choice for users building a custom firewall with 2.5G ports. It fits those who prioritize network connectivity over raw processing power. The four 2.5G LAN ports provide the flexibility needed for advanced routing configurations. It is designed specifically for enthusiasts who require higher throughput for their network infrastructure.
How does the processor speed compare between the FW4B and FW4C?
The FW4C offers a slight performance upgrade. It uses an Intel J3710 Pentium quad-core processor with burst speeds up to 2.6 GHz. The FW4B uses an Intel Celeron J3160 that boosts up to 2.2GHz. While both are quad-core, the FW4C provides higher burst speeds for handling more complex network tasks efficiently.
Are the storage options different in these Protectli models?
No, both models share identical storage specifications. They each include a 32GB SSD. This limited storage is typical for dedicated firewall appliances that rely on lightweight operating systems. You will likely use external storage or cloud backups for additional data. The internal drive is sufficient for the OS and essential firewall applications.
Which model is better for users with gigabit internet?
The FW4B is sufficient if your internet plan is 1Gbps or lower. It provides four gigabit ports for standard connectivity needs. However, if you have a gigabit plan and want headroom for future upgrades, the FW4C is better. Its 2.5G ports can handle speeds exceeding 1Gbps, ensuring you are prepared for faster connections later.
Do both units operate silently without fans?
Yes, both the FW4B and FW4C are fanless mini PCs. They are designed to be compact and silent. This makes them suitable for placement in living spaces or offices where noise is a concern. The passive cooling design ensures quiet operation while maintaining stable temperatures during continuous network security duties.