Ubiquiti vs. pfSense: A quick comparison

As Flytec's Lead Tech Support and a certified UniFi Trainer, I'm always getting asked: "Should I go with pfSense or Ubiquiti UniFi for my network setup?" And my answer is clear— UniFi stands out as the ideal solution for most users including myself. While pfSense has its merits, UniFi offers a seamless, powerful, and scalable networking solution that fits all types of users.

The Core Difference: Simplicity and Power Combined

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s clear up the biggest difference:

• pfSense is a software-based open-source firewall and router solution that requires manual setup and configuration.
• Ubiquiti (UniFi) is a hardware-based networking ecosystem that integrates effortlessly with the UniFi applications for easy management and top-tier performance.

When it comes to ease of use, scalability, and performance, UniFi wins hands down.

Hardware: Seamless Unifi Ecosystem vs. pfSense’s Custom Hardware Approach

pfSense Hardware

pfSense can be installed on compatible hardware, repurposed PCs, or official Netgate appliances. However, setting it up requires more manual configuration compared to UniFi’s plug-and-play hardware. While powerful, pfSense is primarily a firewall/router and does not include built-in Wi-Fi, requiring separate access points for wireless networking.

UniFi Hardware

UniFi offers an all-in-one experience with devices like the UniFi Dream Machine (UDM), Dream Machine Special Edition (UDM-SE), and Dream Machine Pro and Pro Max (UDM-Pro/UDM-Pro-Max). Need more power? Add UniFi Switches (eg. USW-Pro-Max-48-POE, USW-Pro-24 ) and UniFi Access Points (eg. U7-Pro-Max, U7-Pro-Outdoor, U6-Enterprise) for a fully optimized and scalable network.

With UniFi, there’s no need to worry about compatibility or complex setups—everything is designed to work seamlessly out of the box.

Mixing pfSense with UniFi

Some users choose to use pfSense as their router while managing switching and Wi-Fi with UniFi. This setup works and allows for pfSense’s advanced firewall controls alongside UniFi’s intuitive network management.

However, integrating both requires manual VLAN configuration and firewall rule adjustments. For those who prefer a fully integrated, plug-and-play solution, UniFi provides an all-in-one approach with built-in security and seamless management.

Both setups are viable—it just depends on your preference.

Software: UniFi’s User-Friendly Approach

pfSense Software

pfSense is powerful but complex. It offers deep customization but requires advanced networking knowledge to configure properly.

UniFi Software

UniFi’s intuitive, cloud-based UniFi Software provides:

• User-friendly network topology views.
• Easy VLAN and firewall management.
• Built-in VPN support.
• Remote access and monitoring.

Why struggle with pfSense’s steep learning curve when UniFi offers an enterprise-grade, near plug-and-play solution?

Why UniFi is the Best Choice

Here’s the bottom line:

Choose UniFi if:

• You want an easy-to-use, scalable networking solution.
• You prefer seamless integration of hardware and software.
• You need powerful yet intuitive network management.
• You want enterprise-grade security and performance without the hassle.

UniFi is a better choice than pfSense if:

• You don’t want to spend hours configuring firewall rules.
• You need a simple, reliable, and scalable solution.
• You want a network that’s easy to monitor and control remotely.

Final Thoughts: Simplicity Meets Performance

While pfSense is a strong choice for advanced users who need deep customization, UniFi delivers both powerful customization and a user-friendly experience. With integrated hardware, intuitive software, and enterprise-grade performance, UniFi makes networking scalable, secure, and easy to manage—without the complexity.

Ready to upgrade? Flytec Computers has you covered! Contact us today to find the perfect UniFi solution for your network.