Protectli Vault FW6E - 6 Port Firewall/Mini PC Instruction Manual

1. Prodotto finitoview

The Protectli Vault FW6E is a compact, fanless mini PC designed for network security applications such as firewalls and routers. It features an Intel Quad Core Kaby Lake R i7-8550U processor with AES-NI hardware support, providing robust performance for demanding network tasks. This unit is sold as a barebones system, requiring the user to install RAM and storage for full functionality.

Caratteristiche principali:

• PROCESSORE: Intel Quad Core Kaby Lake R i7-8550U (64 bit, 1.8GHz, 4GHz Turbo, 8MB Smart Cache, Intel AES-NI hardware support)
• Porte: 6x Intel Gigabit Ethernet NIC ports, 4x USB 3.0, 1x RJ-45 COM, 1x HDMI
• Progetto: Compact, fanless, and silent operation
• Personalizzazione: Barebones unit (no pre-installed RAM or mSATA SSD) for maximum flexibility
• Compatibilità: Tested with popular open-source software solutions like pfSense, Untangle, and OPNsense. Coreboot BIOS is an optional user-installable feature.

Immagine 1.1: Fronte e lato view of the Protectli Vault FW6E, showcasingrazie al suo design compatto e alle alette del dissipatore di calore.

2. Configurazione e installazione

The Protectli Vault FW6E is a barebones system, meaning it requires the installation of RAM and an SSD (Solid State Drive) before it can be used. Please ensure you acquire compatible components.

2.1 Componenti richiesti (non inclusi)

• Memoria RAM: DDR4 SODIMM (up to 64GB supported). Refer to the official Protectli website for a list of compatible memory modules.
• Magazzinaggio: mSATA SSD or 2.5-inch SATA SSD/HDD. Refer to the official Protectli website for compatible storage devices.
• Sistema operativo: A compatible open-source firewall or routing distribution (e.g., pfSense, Untangle, OPNsense).

2.2 Installazione hardware

1. Aprire il telaio: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the Vault FW6E.
2. Installa RAM: Insert the DDR4 SODIMM modules into the available slots. Ensure they are seated firmly until the clips snap into place.
3. Installa Storage:
   • For mSATA SSD: Insert the mSATA module into the designated slot and secure it with the provided screw.
   • For 2.5-inch SATA drive: Connect the SATA data and power cables to the drive and the motherboard. Secure the drive within the chassis using the mounting hardware.
4. Chiudere il telaio: Reattach the bottom panel and secure it with the screws.

Immagine 2.1: Interno view of the Protectli Vault FW6E motherboard, showing RAM slots and mSATA slot for component installation.

2.3 Connessioni iniziali

1. Energia: Connect the included 12V DC power adapter to the DC IN port on the rear of the device.
2. Display: Connect a monitor to the HDMI port for initial setup and OS installation.
3. Dispositivi di input: Connect a USB keyboard and mouse to the USB 3.0 ports.
4. Rete: Connect your internet source (e.g., modem) to the WAN port (typically the rightmost Ethernet port) and your internal network to one of the LAN/OPT ports.

Image 2.2: Front panel of the Protectli Vault FW6E, displaying the power button, HDMI, COM, and USB 3.0 ports.

Image 2.3: Rear panel of the Protectli Vault FW6E, showing the DC 12V power input and six Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports (WAN, LAN, OPT1-OPT4).

2.4 Installazione del sistema operativo

Once hardware is installed and connections are made, power on the device. You will need to install your chosen operating system (e.g., pfSense, Untangle, OPNsense) from a bootable USB drive. Follow the specific installation instructions provided by your chosen OS vendor.

3. Funzionamento

The Protectli Vault FW6E functions as a dedicated network appliance, typically running open-source firewall or routing software. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, making it suitable for various environments.

3.1 Accensione/spegnimento

• Accensione: Premere il pulsante di accensione situato sul pannello frontale.
• Spegni: It is recommended to shut down the operating system gracefully before pressing the power button to turn off the device. A short press of the power button will typically initiate a graceful shutdown if configured in the OS. A long press (5-10 seconds) will force a power off.

3.2 Configurazione di rete

Network configuration is managed entirely through the installed operating system. Refer to the documentation for your specific OS (pfSense, Untangle, OPNsense, etc.) for detailed instructions on setting up WAN, LAN, and optional interfaces, as well as firewall rules and other network services.

3.3 Coreboot BIOS (Optional)

The Vault FW6E supports coreboot BIOS, an open-source firmware alternative. Installation of coreboot is an advanced procedure and must be performed by the user. Detailed instructions and necessary files are available on the Protectli website. Installing coreboot can enhance security and transparency but requires technical proficiency.

4. Manutenzione

Due to its fanless design, the Protectli Vault FW6E requires minimal physical maintenance. However, software maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and security.

4.1 Physical Maintenance

• Pulizia: Periodically wipe the exterior of the device with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Ensure ventilation fins are not obstructed.
• Ambiente: Operate the device in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat sources.

4.2 Manutenzione del software

• Aggiornamenti del sistema operativo: Regularly update your installed operating system (pfSense, Untangle, OPNsense) to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
• Backup della configurazione: Periodically back up your OS configuration to prevent data loss in case of system failure.

4.3 Aggiornamenti hardware

RAM and SSD can be upgraded after initial installation. Always power off the device and disconnect it from the power source before performing any internal hardware changes. Refer to Section 2.2 for installation steps and consult Protectli's compatibility resources.

5. Risoluzione Dei Problemi

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Protectli Vault FW6E.

5.1 Nessuna uscita di visualizzazione

• Ensure the monitor is properly connected to the HDMI port and is powered on.
• Verify that RAM modules are correctly seated. Reseat them if necessary.
• Se disponibile, provare un altro cavo HDMI o un altro monitor.

5.2 Operating System Installation Issues

• Confirm that your bootable USB drive is created correctly and the OS image is not corrupted.
• Controllare le impostazioni del BIOS per assicurarsi che sia selezionato il dispositivo di avvio corretto.
• Verify that your RAM and SSD are compatible with the Vault FW6E and the chosen OS. Incompatible hardware can cause installation failures.

5.3 Problemi di connettività di rete

• Check all Ethernet cable connections. Ensure they are securely plugged into the correct ports (WAN, LAN).
• Verify network configuration within your operating system. Incorrect IP addresses, subnet masks, or gateway settings can prevent connectivity.
• Confirm that your modem or upstream network device is functioning correctly.

5.4 Il dispositivo non si accende

• Assicurarsi che l'adattatore di alimentazione sia collegato saldamente sia al dispositivo sia a una presa di corrente funzionante.
• Provare la presa di corrente con un altro dispositivo.
• If the device still does not power on, contact Protectli support.

6. Specifiche

Image 6.1: Included accessories for the Protectli Vault FW6E, typically including a power adapter, mounting bracket, and cables.

7. Garanzia e supporto

Protectli is committed to providing reliable products and excellent customer service.

7.1 Garanzia di rimborso

The Protectli Vault FW6E comes with a Garanzia di rimborso di 30 giorni. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within 30 days for a full refund.

7.2 Supporto tecnico

Protectli offers dedicated Supporto tecnico con sede negli Stati Uniti. Our team of experts is available to assist you with any questions or issues you may encounter during setup, configuration, or operation of your Vault FW6E.

For support, please visit the official Protectli websito o fare riferimento alle informazioni di contatto fornite con il prodotto.

7.3 Base di conoscenza

Protectli maintains an extensive and regularly updated Base di conoscenza on its official website. This resource provides detailed articles, guides, and troubleshooting tips covering a wide range of topics from installation to advanced configuration for various operating systems compatible with the Vault FW6E.

We encourage users to consult the Knowledge Base for self-service support and in-depth information.