Looking Beyond the Netgate 1100 pfSense+ Security Gateway? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Netgate 1100 pfSense+ Security Gateway offers a compact, silent solution for users who need pre-installed security software and dedicated firewall throughput. If you are exploring netgate 1100 pfsense security gateway alternatives, you might be looking for different specifications, such as higher port speeds or integrated wireless capabilities. This device provides three 1 GbE ports and a low power draw, making it ideal for specific edge networking tasks. However, its specialized nature may not suit everyone. Some buyers prefer the multi-gigabit WAN options found in modern routers or the integrated mesh Wi-Fi of consumer-grade systems.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original product’s core functions. These options include devices with 10G ports, cellular backup, or tri-band Wi-Fi 7 support. You might need a router that handles higher throughput for 10G internet plans or one that simplifies setup with mesh features. Each alternative addresses specific needs that the Netgate 1100 does not cover, such as dual WAN redundancy or dedicated gaming ports. Reviewing these specs helps you decide which hardware best fits your network requirements without compromising on essential security or connectivity features.
Our top pick: Netgate pfSense Security Gateway.
How each alternative compares
ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router with 10G Port
The ASUS RT-BE86U replaces the Netgate 1100’s single gigabit Ethernet ports with a 10G WAN port. This upgrade supports higher internet speeds and faster local transfers. It also uses Wi-Fi 7 for modern wireless clients. You gain dual-band coverage and VPN features. However, it lacks the pre-installed pfSense+ software. You must configure the router manually. This device suits users who need maximum wired throughput and modern standards. It is less ideal if you require dedicated security software out of the box.
TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G+ Cellular Router
The TP-Link Omada ER706W-4G adds 4G cellular connectivity to the mix. This provides cellular failover if your wired connection drops. It keeps gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices. You also get VPN support for secure connections. The device integrates with the Omada mesh ecosystem. It is larger than the compact Netgate unit. You trade silent, small form factor operation for cellular redundancy. This choice fits small offices needing reliable backup internet. It is better for users who prioritize connectivity options over pure firewall performance.
ASUS ROG Strix AX3000 Gaming Router
The ASUS ROG Strix GS-AX3000 focuses on gaming performance with Wi-Fi 6. It offers AX3000 speed ratings and VPN fusion for simultaneous gaming and secure traffic. The device includes a dedicated gaming port. It supports mesh expansion for wider coverage. You lose the dedicated security gateway focus of the Netgate 1100. The setup is more consumer-oriented. This router suits gamers who need strong security and mesh capabilities. It is a good fit if you want wireless convenience alongside network protection. It lacks the specialized firewall throughput of the original product.
Linksys Business Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router
The Linksys LRT224 introduces dual WAN connectivity for redundant internet connections. It supports gigabit ports for wired devices. You get robust site-to-site VPN capabilities for secure office links. The device is designed for small business reliability. It is larger than the Netgate 1100 and lacks wireless access point features. You trade wireless convenience for wired redundancy. This router fits users who need multiple internet sources for uptime. It is ideal for offices requiring secure site connections. It is less suitable for home users needing Wi-Fi coverage.
Amazon eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router
The eero Pro 7 delivers Wi-Fi 7 speeds in a tri-band configuration. It covers up to 2,000 square feet with high bandwidth. The device focuses on ease of use and mesh expansion. You get simple setup without complex firewall rules. It lacks the dedicated security gateway features of the Netgate 1100. You cannot run pfSense+ software on this device. It is designed for home networks prioritizing speed and simplicity. This choice suits users who want high-speed Wi-Fi 7. It is not ideal for those needing advanced network segmentation or dedicated firewall throughput.
TP-Link Deco Tri-Band WiFi 7 Mesh Router
The TP-Link Deco BE63 offers Wi-Fi 7 with tri-band backhaul. It includes a 10G port for high-speed wired connections. The device is designed for home mesh networks. You get easy setup and VPN support. It lacks the specialized security software of the Netgate 1100. The form factor is larger and less compact. It is better for users needing strong wireless coverage with modern standards. This router fits smaller spaces requiring high capacity. It is less suitable for users who prioritize dedicated firewall performance over wireless convenience.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Netgate pfSense Security Gateway
Best for: users needing dedicated pfSense+ security
- Max Port Speed
- 1 GbE
- Ethernet Ports
- 3
- Features
- VPN
- Dimensions
- 4.33 × 3.33 × 1.25 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: Netgate pfSense Security Gateway Affiliate link
The Netgate 1100 is a compact security gateway pre-loaded with pfSense+ software. It features a dual-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor and three 1 GbE ports. The device offers over 650 Mbps of firewall throughput and supports VPN functionality. Its silent, low-power design fits easily on a desk or in a rack. This unit includes lifetime software updates and technical support, making it a robust choice for secure edge networking.
Pros
- Pre-loaded with pfSense+ software for immediate setup
- Includes lifetime pfSense+ software updates and TAC Lite support
- Delivers over 650 Mbps of firewall throughput
- Compact, silent design with low power draw
Cons
- Limited to three 1 GbE ports
- Maximum port speed capped at 1 GbE
- Requires adult signature for delivery
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated firewall with pre-installed pfSense+ software
- You require lifetime software updates and technical support
- You want a silent, low-power device for desktop or rack mounting
Skip if
- You need ports faster than 1 GbE
- You require more than three Ethernet connections
- You prefer a device with higher throughput capabilities
Verdict: Netgate 1100 pfSense+ Security Gateway is a specialized gateway for users who need pre-installed pfSense+ software and lifetime support. It suits those who prioritize security features and silent operation over high-speed WAN ports.
ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router with 10G Port
Best for: High-speed wired backbones and modern wireless clients
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 10 Gbps
- Use Case
- Gaming
- Features
- VPN, Parental Controls, Mesh
- Dimensions
- 12.4 × 9.3 × 3.5 inches
View on Amazon: ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router with 10G Port Affiliate link
The ASUS RT-BE86U is a dual-band WiFi 7 router designed for high-performance wired and wireless connectivity. It features a 10 Gigabit WAN port and supports up to 6.8 Gbps of combined throughput. The quad-core 2.6 GHz CPU handles demanding network tasks. You will appreciate the versatile WAN options, including support for 4G LTE and 5G tethering. It also includes Guest Network Pro for segmentation and VPN compatibility for secure access.
Pros
- WiFi 7 standard with Multi-link Operation
- 10 Gigabit WAN/LAN port for 20G total capacity
- Quad-core 2.6 GHz 64-bit CPU
- Guest Network Pro with up to five SSIDs
- Supports 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering
Cons
- Limited to dual-band frequency support
- Large physical footprint at 12.4 inches long
- No mention of built-in cellular modem for direct WAN
Good fit if
- You need a 10 Gigabit wired connection for your ISP
- You want WiFi 7 speeds on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands
- You require flexible WAN options including cellular tethering
Skip if
- You need a tri-band or quad-band setup for dense environments
- You prefer a compact router for small spaces
- You need a dedicated security gateway with pfSense+ integration
Verdict: The ASUS RT-BE86U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router suits users who prioritize maximum wired throughput and modern WiFi standards. It is ideal for those with 10G internet plans who need robust segmentation and VPN features.
TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G+ Cellular Router
Best for: cellular backup and wired connectivity
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX3000
- Frequency Bands
- Dual-Band
- Max Port Speed
- 2.5G
- Ethernet Ports
- 6
- Features
- VPN
View on Amazon: TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G+ Cellular Router Affiliate link
The TP-Link Omada ER706W-4G is a dual-band WiFi 6 gateway with 4G+ Cat6 cellular backup. It offers AX3000 speeds across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The device includes six Gigabit Ethernet ports and five detachable high-gain antennas. It supports Omada Mesh for seamless EAP connections. This router suits users needing reliable wired and wireless connectivity with cellular failover.
Pros
- 4G+ Cat6 cellular support for up to 300 Mbps backup
- AX3000 dual-band WiFi 6 performance
- Six Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices
- Five high-gain detachable antennas for signal strength
- Omada Mesh compatibility for extended coverage
Cons
- Dual-band WiFi 6 is older than WiFi 7 options
- Gigabit ports limit speeds compared to 10G WAN models
- Not compatible with AT&T Text & Data plans in the US
Good fit if
- You need cellular backup for internet reliability
- You require multiple wired Gigabit connections
- You use Omada EAPs for mesh networking
Skip if
- You need WiFi 7 speeds
- You require 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- You use AT&T cellular data in the US
Verdict: TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G VPN Router is a practical choice for users prioritizing cellular failover and wired connectivity over the latest WiFi standards. It fits small offices needing reliable Omada mesh integration.
ASUS ROG Strix AX3000 Gaming Router
Best for: gamers needing a dedicated port and VPN fusion
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
- Speed Rating
- AX3000
- Use Case
- Gaming
- Features
- VPN
- Dimensions
- 10.6 × 7.08 × 6.53 inches
- Weight
- 1.55 pounds
View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Strix AX3000 Gaming Router Affiliate link
This AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 router targets gamers with a dedicated gaming port and Mobile Game Mode. It supports 160 MHz channels for high throughput and includes AiProtection Pro security. The device allows simultaneous VPN and regular internet connections via VPN Fusion. You can extend the network using AiMesh-compatible routers. It is a solid option for users prioritizing gaming performance and basic security features over advanced enterprise routing capabilities.
Pros
- Dedicated Gaming Port for optimized traffic
- VPN Fusion for simultaneous connections
- AiProtection Pro security powered by Trend Micro
- AiMesh compatibility for network expansion
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6 standard instead of newer Wi-Fi 7
- No mention of 2.5G or 10G WAN ports
- Consumer-grade design not suited for heavy enterprise loads
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated gaming port for consoles or PCs
- You want to run a VPN alongside normal internet traffic
- You plan to expand your network with AiMesh nodes
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 7 speeds for future-proofing
- You need multi-gigabit WAN ports for high-speed fiber
- You are looking for a dedicated pfSense+ security gateway
Verdict: The ASUS ROG Strix GS-AX3000 Gaming Router fits gamers who value a dedicated port and simultaneous VPN usage. It offers strong security and mesh expansion but lacks the multi-gigabit ports found in higher-end alternatives.
Linksys Business Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router
Best for: Small offices needing dual WAN and site-to-site VPN
- Max Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Features
- VPN, Dual WAN
- Dimensions
- 8.6 × 5.5 × 2.3 inches
- Weight
- 1.58 pounds
View on Amazon: Linksys Business Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router Affiliate link
The Linksys Business Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router (LRT224) offers reliable connectivity for small offices. It supports up to 50 IPsec tunnels and five OpenVPN tunnels. The device provides 900 Mbps firewall throughput and 110 Mbps IPsec throughput. It features dual WAN ports for load balancing and failover. This router suits users who need secure site-to-site connections and redundant internet access without complex configuration.
Pros
- Supports up to 50 IPsec tunnels for site-to-site and client-to-site VPN
- Includes 5 OpenVPN tunnels for iOS and Android users
- Provides 900 Mbps firewall throughput and 110 Mbps IPsec throughput
- Supports load balancing and WAN failover for reliable internet connectivity
Cons
- Limited to Gigabit port speeds, lacking 2.5G or 10G options
- No mention of Wi-Fi capabilities, requiring a separate access point
- Physical dimensions are bulkier than compact travel routers
Good fit if
- You need dual WAN ports for internet redundancy
- You require up to 50 simultaneous IPsec VPN tunnels
- You want a dedicated security gateway for a small office
Skip if
- You need built-in Wi-Fi access points
- You require Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 speeds
- You are looking for a compact travel router
Verdict: Linksys LRT224 Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router is a solid choice for small businesses needing redundant internet and robust VPN capabilities. It fits users who prioritize network reliability and security over wireless convenience.
Amazon eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router
Best for: Small homes needing high-speed Wi-Fi 7
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Frequency Bands
- tri-band
- Coverage Area
- 2,000 sq. ft.
- Device Capacity
- 200+
- Max Port Speed
- 5 GbE
- Pack Size
- 1-Pack
View on Amazon: Amazon eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router Affiliate link
The eero Pro 7 is a single Wi-Fi 7 unit designed for homes up to 2,000 square feet. It supports internet plans up to 5 Gbps via two 5 GbE ports and connects 200+ devices. This model uses tri-band architecture and Multi-Link Operation for reliable throughput. It suits users who want a simple, high-speed mesh foundation that expands easily with additional eero nodes.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard with Multi-Link Operation
- Two auto-sensing 5 GbE Ethernet ports
- Supports internet plans up to 5 Gbps
- Handles 200+ connected devices
- Expands easily with other eero nodes
Cons
- Single unit covers only 2,000 sq ft
- No mention of Wi-Fi 6E compatibility
- Limited to 200 device capacity
Good fit if
- You need a high-speed Wi-Fi 7 gateway
- You have an internet plan up to 5 Gbps
- You want a simple mesh system to expand later
Skip if
- You need a single unit for large homes over 2,000 sq ft
- You require advanced firewall or VPN routing features
- You prefer a standalone router without mesh app management
Verdict: The eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router delivers next-generation speed for small to medium homes. It is the right fit for users prioritizing high bandwidth and easy mesh expansion over complex network configuration.
TP-Link Deco Tri-Band WiFi 7 Mesh Router
Best for: single-node Wi-Fi 7 mesh with 10G port
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Speed Rating
- BE10000
- Frequency Bands
- Tri-Band
- Coverage Area
- 3,000 sq ft
- Device Capacity
- over 200 devices
- Max Port Speed
- 10 Gbps
View on Amazon: TP-Link Deco Tri-Band WiFi 7 Mesh Router Affiliate link
This is a single-pack mesh system using Wi-Fi 7 and tri-band architecture. It covers up to 3,000 square feet and supports over 200 devices. The unit includes a 10G WAN/LAN port and four 2.5G ports for high-speed wired connections. It features a USB 3.0 port and supports VPN client and server functions. This setup suits homes needing high capacity and future-proofed backhaul options.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 standard with BE10000 speed rating
- Tri-band design for simultaneous wired and wireless backhaul
- 10G WAN/LAN port for high-speed internet plans
- Supports over 200 connected devices
- Built-in VPN client and server support
Cons
- Single unit covers only 3,000 square feet
- Requires additional Deco units for full mesh backhaul
- No dedicated 10G Ethernet ports listed in specs
Good fit if
- You need a single node for a smaller home
- You want Wi-Fi 7 speeds and tri-band backhaul
- You require VPN client and server capabilities
Skip if
- You need coverage for more than 3,000 square feet
- You require a multi-pack system included
- You need more than one 10G port
Verdict: TP-Link Deco 7 Pro BE63 Tri-Band fits users needing a single, high-capacity node with Wi-Fi 7 and 10G connectivity. It is ideal for smaller spaces where tri-band backhaul and VPN support are priorities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Netgate pfSense Security Gateway | ASUS Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router with 10G Port | TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G+ Cellular Router | ASUS ROG Strix AX3000 Gaming Router | Linksys Business Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router | Amazon eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router | TP-Link Deco Tri-Band WiFi 7 Mesh Router |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 7 | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | not stated | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Speed Rating | not stated | not stated | AX3000 | AX3000 | not stated | not stated | BE10000 |
| Frequency Bands | not stated | Dual-Band | Dual-Band | not stated | not stated | tri-band | Tri-Band |
| Coverage Area | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2,000 sq. ft. | 3,000 sq ft |
| Device Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 200+ | over 200 devices |
| Max Port Speed | 1 GbE | 10 Gbps | 2.5G | not stated | Gigabit | 5 GbE | 10 Gbps |
| Ethernet Ports | 3 | not stated | 6 | not stated | not stated | not stated | 4 |
| Frequency Band | not stated | Dual-Band | not stated | not stated | not stated | Tri-Band | Tri-Band |
| Pack Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1-Pack | 1-Pack |
| Use Case | not stated | Gaming | not stated | Gaming | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Features | VPN | VPN, Parental Controls, Mesh | VPN | VPN | VPN, Dual WAN | Mesh | VPN, Mesh |
| Port Speed | not stated | 2.5G, 10G | Gigabit, 2.5G | not stated | Gigabit | not stated | 2.5G, 10G |
| Intended Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Home |
| Dimensions | 4.33 × 3.33 × 1.25 inches | 12.4 × 9.3 × 3.5 inches | not stated | 10.6 × 7.08 × 6.53 inches | 8.6 × 5.5 × 2.3 inches | 5.79 × 3.11 × 7.09 inches | 4.23 × 4.23 × 6.93 inches |
| Weight | 1 pounds | 1.9 pounds | 3.47 pounds | 1.55 pounds | 1.58 pounds | 1.68 pounds | 1.66 pounds |
| Color | White | BLACK | Black | BLACK | Black/blue | WHITE | White |
| Model | SG-1100 | RT-BE86U | ER706W-4G | GS-AX3000 | LRT224-EU | ME10001 | Deco BE63(1-Pack) |
| Size | not stated | Dual-Band | 8.9 x 5.2 x 1.4 inches | 10.56 x 7.08 x 6.53 inches | 1.6" x 5.1" x 7.5" | 1-pack | 1 Pack |
If you need indoor monitoring hardware for your network, you can evaluate gncc security camera alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Netgate 1100 support Wi-Fi connectivity?
The Netgate 1100 is a dedicated security gateway, not a wireless router. It does not include built-in Wi-Fi radios. You must connect it to a separate access point or router to provide wireless coverage. This setup allows you to combine its firewall capabilities with the wireless features of your chosen router.
What is the best alternative for high-speed 10G internet?
The ASUS RT-BE86U is the top choice for users with 10G internet plans. It features a dedicated 10G port to handle maximum wired throughput. This router also supports Wi-Fi 7 and dual-band coverage. It suits those who need robust segmentation and VPN features alongside high-speed connectivity.
Which router offers cellular backup for reliability?
The TP-Link Omada AX3000 4G+ Cellular Router is designed for this need. It provides cellular failover to keep your network online during outages. It also offers wired connectivity and Omada mesh integration. This makes it a practical choice for small offices prioritizing reliability over the latest wireless standards.
Can I use these routers for gaming and VPNs?
Yes, several options support simultaneous gaming and VPN usage. The ASUS ROG Strix GS-AX3000 fits gamers needing a dedicated port and VPN fusion. It offers strong security and mesh expansion. While it lacks multi-gigabit ports, it provides the necessary features for secure, low-latency gaming sessions.
Is there a router with dual WAN support?
The Linksys LRT224 Dual WAN Gigabit VPN Router supports dual WAN connections. This allows you to use two internet sources for redundancy. It is ideal for small businesses needing site-to-site VPN capabilities. It prioritizes network reliability and security over wireless convenience, making it a solid business choice.
Which option is best for small home coverage?
The eero Pro 7 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router covers up to 2,000 square feet. It delivers next-generation speed for small to medium homes. It is designed for users prioritizing high bandwidth and easy mesh expansion. You get simple configuration without the complexity of manual network settings.
Does the Deco BE63 support 10G ports?
Yes, the TP-Link Deco BE63 includes a 10G port. It is a single-node Wi-Fi 7 mesh router with tri-band backhaul. This setup suits smaller spaces where high capacity is needed. It also supports VPN, making it a strong option for users wanting modern speed and security in a home environment.
How do these alternatives compare to the Netgate 1100 size?
The Netgate 1100 is very compact, measuring 4.33 by 3.33 inches. Most alternatives are larger due to added features. For example, the ASUS RT-BE86U is 12.4 inches long. The eero Pro 7 is 7.09 inches tall. These routers prioritize wireless performance and port speed over the minimal footprint of the gateway.