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

1. Producte acabatview

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.

Característiques principals:

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

Imatge 1.1: Frontal i lateral view of the Protectli Vault FW6E, showcasinel seu disseny compacte i les aletes del dissipador de calor.

2. Configuració i instal·lació

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 Components necessaris (no inclosos)

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

2.2 Instal·lació de maquinari

1. Obriu el xassís: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the Vault FW6E.
2. Instal·lació de la memòria RAM: Insert the DDR4 SODIMM modules into the available slots. Ensure they are seated firmly until the clips snap into place.
3. Install 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. Tanca el xassís: Reattach the bottom panel and secure it with the screws.

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

2.3 Connexions inicials

1. Potència: Connect the included 12V DC power adapter to the DC IN port on the rear of the device.
2. Visualització: Connect a monitor to the HDMI port for initial setup and OS installation.
3. Dispositius d'entrada: Connect a USB keyboard and mouse to the USB 3.0 ports.
4. Xarxa: 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 Instal·lació del sistema operatiu

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. Funcionament

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 Encès/Apagat

• Encès: Premeu el botó d'encesa situat al tauler frontal.
• Apagar: 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 Configuració de la xarxa

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. Manteniment

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

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

4.2 Manteniment del programari

• Actualitzacions del sistema operatiu: Regularly update your installed operating system (pfSense, Untangle, OPNsense) to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
• Còpies de seguretat de configuració: Periodically back up your OS configuration to prevent data loss in case of system failure.

4.3 Hardware Upgrades

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. Solució De Problemes

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

5.1 Sense sortida de pantalla

• 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.
• Prova un altre cable HDMI o monitor si estàs disponible.

5.2 Operating System Installation Issues

• Confirm that your bootable USB drive is created correctly and the OS image is not corrupted.
• Check BIOS settings to ensure the correct boot device is selected.
• Verify that your RAM and SSD are compatible with the Vault FW6E and the chosen OS. Incompatible hardware can cause installation failures.

5.3 Problemes de connectivitat de xarxa

• 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 El dispositiu no s'encén

• Assegureu-vos que l'adaptador de corrent estigui connectat correctament tant al dispositiu com a una presa de corrent que funcioni.
• Proveu la presa de corrent amb un altre dispositiu.
• If the device still does not power on, contact Protectli support.

6. Especificacions

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

7. Garantia i Suport

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

7.1 Money-Back Guarantee

The Protectli Vault FW6E comes with a Garantia de devolució de 30 dies. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within 30 days for a full refund.

7.2 Suport tècnic

Protectli offers dedicated Suport tècnic als Estats Units. 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 weblloc web o consulteu la informació de contacte que es proporciona amb el producte.

7.3 Base de coneixement

Protectli maintains an extensive and regularly updated Base de coneixement 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.