Setting your Firewalla device to router mode offers enhanced network security and control. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining the benefits and addressing potential challenges. We'll cover different Firewalla models and provide troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Understanding Router Mode vs. Gateway Mode
Before diving into the setup, it's crucial to understand the difference between router mode and gateway mode.
-
Gateway Mode: In this mode, your Firewalla sits behind your existing router. It acts as a security appliance, monitoring and filtering traffic that passes through it. This is generally the easiest setup.
-
Router Mode: In this mode, your Firewalla replaces your existing router. It becomes the primary device handling all network traffic, routing and filtering simultaneously. This offers greater control and can improve performance in some scenarios, but requires a more involved setup.
Why Choose Router Mode?
Choosing router mode offers several advantages:
-
Enhanced Security: By acting as the primary router, Firewalla can inspect all traffic entering and leaving your network, providing a more comprehensive security layer.
-
Improved Performance (Potentially): Depending on your existing router and network configuration, using Firewalla in router mode could lead to improved speeds and reduced latency. This is because it eliminates the overhead of traffic passing through two devices.
-
Complete Control: You gain complete control over your network's routing and firewall rules, offering granular adjustments to security settings.
Setting Up Firewalla in Router Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide
The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your Firewalla model (Firewalla Gold, Purple, or F6). However, the general process remains consistent. Always refer to Firewalla's official documentation for your specific model for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.
1. Connect your Firewalla: Connect your Firewalla device to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Do not connect it to your existing router.
2. Configure your modem: Ensure your modem is in bridge mode (or passthrough mode). This means it simply passes the internet connection to your Firewalla without performing any routing functions. Contact your internet service provider (ISP) if you need assistance with this step. This is crucial; without bridge mode, your internet won't work correctly.
3. Access the Firewalla interface: Use the Firewalla app (available for iOS and Android) or web interface to configure your device.
4. Set up the network: Configure your desired Wi-Fi SSID and password within the Firewalla interface. This will be your new network's name and password.
5. Configure DHCP: Enable DHCP on your Firewalla. This allows it to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on your network.
6. Test your connection: Connect your devices to the Firewalla's Wi-Fi network and check for internet connectivity.
7. Configure advanced settings (optional): Once the basic setup is complete, explore the advanced settings in the Firewalla app or web interface to customize your firewall rules, VPN settings, and other security features. This is where the true power of Firewalla shines.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
-
No Internet Connection: Double-check your modem is in bridge mode. Ensure the Ethernet cable connecting your modem to Firewalla is securely plugged in on both ends. Restart both your modem and Firewalla.
-
Slow Speeds: Check for interference from other devices. Update your Firewalla's firmware to the latest version.
-
Device Connectivity Problems: Ensure devices are connected to the correct Wi-Fi network (the one you created on your Firewalla). Check your Firewalla's firewall rules to ensure they aren't blocking access.
Conclusion
Switching your Firewalla to router mode provides a more robust and controlled network security experience. While the setup requires a bit more technical knowledge than gateway mode, the enhanced security and potential performance improvements make it a worthwhile endeavor for many users. Remember to always consult the official Firewalla documentation for detailed instructions specific to your device model.
