Protectli FW4B
Protectli Vault FW4B Firewall Micro Appliance User Manual
Model: FW4B | Brand: Protectli
1. Увод
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. Шта је у кутији
Upon unpacking your Protectli Vault FW4B, please verify that all the following components are present:
- Protectli Vault FW4B Unit
- Адаптер за напајање (ДЦ 12В)
- Повер Цорд
- Serial Console Cable (RJ-45 to DB9)
- VESA Mounting Plate and Screws

Figure 2: Included accessories for the Protectli Vault FW4B. Note: The power supply design may vary.
3. Производ је готовview
The Protectli Vault FW4B features a robust, fanless design for silent operation and enhanced reliability. Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators:
3.1 Предња плоча

Figure 3: Front panel of the FW4B with Ethernet ports and power input.
- ВАН порт: Connects to your internet service provider (ISP) modem.
- ЛАН порт: Connects to your internal network switch or access point.
- OPT1, OPT2 Ports: Optional ports for additional network segments, VLANs, or other configurations.
- ДЦ 12В Улаз за напајање: Овде повежите испоручени адаптер за напајање.
- ЛЕД индикатори: Status lights for power and network activity.
3.2 Задња плоча

Figure 4: Rear panel of the FW4B with various I/O ports.
- Дугме за напајање: Press to power on or off the device.
- Аудио прикључак: For audio output (if supported by OS).
- УСБ 3.0 портови (к2): For connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, or USB installation media.
- COM Port (RJ-45): Serial console port for direct command-line interface access.
- HDMI портови (x2): За повезивање дисплеја.

Figure 5: Dimensions of the Protectli Vault FW4B.
4. Подешавање
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)
- Искључивање: Ensure the device is unplugged from the power source.
- Отворена шасија: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the FW4B.
- Инсталирајте РАМ: 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.
- Затвори шасију: Replace the bottom panel and secure it with the screws.
Напомена: Refer to the Protectli website or contact support for compatible RAM and mSATA SSD models if you encounter issues.
4.2 Почетно повезивање
- Connect Display (Optional): Connect a monitor to one of the HDMI ports.
- Connect Keyboard (Optional): Connect a USB keyboard to a USB 3.0 port.
- Повежите мрежу:
- Connect your ISP modem to the ВАН лука.
- Connect your computer or a network switch to the ЛАН лука.
- Укључено: 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 Инсталација оперативног система
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 webсајту.
- 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 ДЕЛ 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.
Савет: Many open-source firewall distributions offer detailed installation guides on their respective websites. Protectli also provides resources on their knowledge base.
5. Упутство за употребу
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 Укључивање/искључивање
- Укључено: Press the power button on the rear panel. The power LED will illuminate.
- Искључивање: 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 Конфигурација мреже
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
- Правила заштитног зида
- ВПН услуге
- Additional network services
Важно: Always refer to the documentation of your installed operating system for detailed network configuration steps.
6. Одржавање
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Protectli Vault FW4B.
6.1 Чишћење
- Keep the device in a clean, dust-free environment.
- Periodically wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the device.
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 Управљање топлотом
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.
КСНУМКС. Решавање проблема
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Protectli Vault FW4B.
| Проблем | Могући узрок | Решење |
|---|---|---|
| Уређај се не укључује. | No power, faulty power adapter, loose connection. | Verify power outlet, check power adapter and cable connections. Ensure the power button is pressed firmly. |
| Нема излаза на екрану. | 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). |
| Проблеми са мрежном везом. | 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. Спецификације
| Феатуре | Детаљ |
|---|---|
| Модел | ФВ4Б |
| Процесор | Intel Quad Core Celeron J3160, 64-bit, up to 2.2GHz, AES-NI support |
| Етхернет портови | 4x Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| УСБ портови | 2к УСБ 3.0 |
| Видео Оутпут | 2к ХДМИ |
| Сериал Порт | 1x RJ-45 COM |
| RAM (Barebone) | No RAM included (supports DDR3L SO-DIMM) |
| Storage (Barebone) | No mSATA SSD included |
| БИОС | AMI BIOS (coreboot optional, user-installable) |
| Оперативни систем | OS Agnostic (No OS pre-installed) |
| Димензије (ДкШкВ) | 4.5 к 4.3 к 1.5 инча (115 к 107.5 к 39 мм) |
| Тежина | 1.25 фунти (приближно 0.57 кг) |
| Повер Инпут | ДЦ 12В |
9. Гаранција и подршка
Protectli offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and US-based customer support for the Vault FW4B.
- Корисничка подршка: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Protectli webсајт за контакт информације.
- База знања: An extensive online knowledge base is available with detailed articles and guides for installation and configuration.
- гаранција: Specific warranty terms and conditions are available on the Protectli webсајту.

Figure 6: Protectli's commitment to open source, security, and support.
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