Protectli FW4B
Manuale utente del micro dispositivo firewall Protectli Vault FW4B
Model: FW4B | Brand: Protectli
1. Introduzione
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Protectli Vault FW4B firewall micro appliance. The FW4B is a compact, fanless device designed for network security applications, featuring an Intel Quad Core Celeron J3160 processor with AES-NI hardware support and four Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports. It is a barebone unit, allowing for maximum customization with user-supplied RAM and mSATA storage.
The Protectli Vault FW4B is compatible with various open-source software solutions, including pfSense, untangle, and OPNsense, making it a versatile choice for securing and managing your network.

Figure 1: Protectli Vault applications, including firewall, VPN router, and hypervisor.
2. Cosa c'è nella scatola
Upon unpacking your Protectli Vault FW4B, please verify that all the following components are present:
- Protectli Vault FW4B Unit
- Adattatore di alimentazione (CC 12V)
- Cavo di alimentazione
- Cavo console seriale (RJ-45 a DB9)
- Piastra di montaggio VESA e viti

Figure 2: Included accessories for the Protectli Vault FW4B. Note: The power supply design may vary.
3. Prodotto finitoview
The Protectli Vault FW4B features a robust, fanless design for silent operation and enhanced reliability. Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators:
3.1 Pannello frontale

Figure 3: Front panel of the FW4B with Ethernet ports and power input.
- Porta WAN: Connects to your internet service provider (ISP) modem.
- Porta LAN: Connects to your internal network switch or access point.
- OPT1, OPT2 Ports: Optional ports for additional network segments, VLANs, or other configurations.
- Ingresso alimentazione CC 12 V: Collega qui l'alimentatore incluso.
- Indicatori LED: Spie di stato per alimentazione e attività di rete.
3.2 Pannello posteriore

Figure 4: Rear panel of the FW4B with various I/O ports.
- Pulsante di accensione: Premere per accendere o spegnere il dispositivo.
- Jack audio: For audio output (if supported by OS).
- Porte USB 3.0 (x2): For connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, or USB installation media.
- COM Port (RJ-45): Serial console port for direct command-line interface access.
- Porte HDMI (x2): Per collegare i display.

Figure 5: Dimensions of the Protectli Vault FW4B.
4. Impostazione
The Protectli Vault FW4B is a barebone unit, requiring the installation of RAM and an mSATA SSD before use. Please follow these steps carefully.
4.1 Hardware Installation (RAM & mSATA SSD)
- Spegni: Assicurarsi che il dispositivo sia scollegato dalla fonte di alimentazione.
- Telaio aperto: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the FW4B.
- Installa RAM: Insert the DDR3L SO-DIMM RAM module(s) into the designated slot(s) until they click into place.
- Install mSATA SSD: Insert the mSATA SSD into its slot and secure it with the provided screw.
- Telaio chiuso: Riposizionare il pannello inferiore e fissarlo con le viti.
Nota: Refer to the Protectli website or contact support for compatible RAM and mSATA SSD models if you encounter issues.
4.2 Connessione iniziale
- Collega il display (facoltativo): Connect a monitor to one of the HDMI ports.
- Connect Keyboard (Optional): Connect a USB keyboard to a USB 3.0 port.
- Connetti rete:
- Connect your ISP modem to the Rete WAN porta.
- Connect your computer or a network switch to the Rete locale porta.
- Accensione: Connect the power adapter to the DC 12V input and then plug it into a power outlet. Press the power button on the rear panel.
4.3 Installazione del sistema operativo
The Protectli Vault FW4B does not come with a pre-installed operating system. It is designed to run open-source firewall distributions. Common choices include:
To install an operating system:
- Download the desired OS image (e.g., ISO file) from the official websito.
- Create a bootable USB drive using a utility like Rufus or Etcher.
- Insert the bootable USB drive into a USB 3.0 port on the FW4B.
- Power on the FW4B and access the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing DEL or F2 during boot) to set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions of the chosen operating system to complete the installation.
Mancia: Many open-source firewall distributions offer detailed installation guides on their respective websites. Protectli also provides resources on their knowledge base.
5. Istruzioni per l'uso
Once the operating system is installed and configured, the Protectli Vault FW4B will function as your network appliance. Specific operating procedures will depend on the installed software.
5.1 Accensione/spegnimento
- Accensione: Press the power button on the rear panel. The power LED will illuminate.
- Spegni: It is recommended to shut down the operating system gracefully through its interface before pressing the power button. A short press of the power button typically initiates a graceful shutdown, while a long press (5-10 seconds) performs a hard power off.
5.2 Configurazione di rete
After OS installation, access the web interface of your chosen firewall software from a computer connected to the LAN port. The default IP address for the LAN interface is typically provided during OS installation or in the OS documentation. From the web interface, you can configure:
- WAN (Internet) settings
- LAN (Internal Network) settings
- Regole del firewall
- Servizi VPN
- Additional network services
Importante: Always refer to the documentation of your installed operating system for detailed network configuration steps.
6. Manutenzione
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Protectli Vault FW4B.
6.1 Pulizia
- Conservare il dispositivo in un ambiente pulito e privo di polvere.
- Periodically wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
- Evitare di utilizzare detergenti liquidi direttamente sul dispositivo.
6.2 Firmware Updates (BIOS/UEFI)
Protectli may release BIOS/UEFI updates to improve stability, compatibility, or add features like coreboot support. Check the official Protectli website for the latest firmware and detailed update instructions. Always follow the provided instructions carefully to avoid damaging the device.
6.3 Gestione del calore
The FW4B is a fanless device, relying on its aluminum chassis for heat dissipation. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit. Avoid placing it in enclosed spaces or stacking other devices directly on top of it. While designed to run warm, excessive heat can impact performance and lifespan.
7. Risoluzione Dei Problemi
Questa sezione affronta i problemi più comuni che potresti riscontrare con Protectli Vault FW4B.
| Problema | Possibile causa | Soluzione |
|---|---|---|
| Il dispositivo non si accende. | Nessuna alimentazione, adattatore di alimentazione difettoso, collegamento allentato. | Verify power outlet, check power adapter and cable connections. Ensure the power button is pressed firmly. |
| Nessun output di visualizzazione. | Incorrect HDMI port, monitor issue, OS not booting. | Try both HDMI ports. Ensure monitor is on and set to correct input. Check if OS is booting (e.g., via serial console). |
| Problemi di connettività di rete. | Incorrect cable connection, OS network configuration error, ISP issue. | Verify Ethernet cables are securely connected to the correct ports (WAN/LAN). Check OS network settings. Confirm ISP service is active. |
| Device runs excessively hot. | Poor ventilation, high CPU load. | Ensure the device is in an open area with good airflow. Reduce CPU load if possible. Consider external cooling if necessary (e.g., a small USB fan). |
| Operating system fails to install. | Corrupt installation media, incompatible RAM/SSD, incorrect BIOS settings. | Re-create bootable USB. Verify RAM/SSD compatibility. Check BIOS boot order and settings. |
If you encounter issues not covered here, please refer to the Protectli Knowledge Base or contact customer support.
8. Specifiche
| Caratteristica | Dettaglio |
|---|---|
| Modello | FW4B |
| Processore | Intel Quad Core Celeron J3160, 64-bit, up to 2.2GHz, AES-NI support |
| Porte Ethernet | 4x Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| Porte USB | 2x USB 3.0 |
| Uscita video | 2x HDMI |
| Porta seriale | 1x RJ-45 COM |
| RAM (Barebone) | No RAM included (supports DDR3L SO-DIMM) |
| Archiviazione (Barebone) | No mSATA SSD included |
| BIOGRAFIA | AMI BIOS (coreboot optional, user-installable) |
| Sistema operativo | OS Agnostic (nessun sistema operativo preinstallato) |
| Dimensioni (LxWxH) | 4.5 x 4.3 x 1.5 pollici (115 x 107.5 x 39 mm) |
| Peso | 1.25 libbre (circa 0.57 kg) |
| Potenza in ingresso | CC 12V |
9. Garanzia e supporto
Protectli offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and US-based customer support for the Vault FW4B.
- Assistenza clienti: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Protectli websito per le informazioni di contatto.
- Base di conoscenza: An extensive online knowledge base is available with detailed articles and guides for installation and configuration.
- Garanzia: Specific warranty terms and conditions are available on the Protectli websito.

Figure 6: Protectli's commitment to open source, security, and support.
Ask a question about this manual
Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.