1. Bubuka
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. Naon dina Box
Upon unpacking your Protectli Vault FW4B, please verify that all the following components are present:
- Protectli Vault FW4B Unit
- Adaptor Daya (DC 12V)
- Kabel listrik
- 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. Produk Langkungview
The Protectli Vault FW4B features a robust, fanless design for silent operation and enhanced reliability. Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators:
3.1 Panel payun

Figure 3: Front panel of the FW4B with Ethernet ports and power input.
- Palabuhan Wan: Connects to your internet service provider (ISP) modem.
- Port LAN: Connects to your internal network switch or access point.
- OPT1, OPT2 Ports: Optional ports for additional network segments, VLANs, or other configurations.
- Input Daya DC 12V: Sambungkeun adaptor listrik anu kalebet di dieu.
- Indikator LED: Lampu status pikeun daya sareng aktivitas jaringan.
3.2 Panel tukang

Figure 4: Rear panel of the FW4B with various I/O ports.
- Tombol Daya: Press to power on or off the device.
- Jack audio: For audio output (if supported by OS).
- Port USB 3.0 (x2): For connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, or USB installation media.
- COM Port (RJ-45): Serial console port for direct command-line interface access.
- Port HDMI (x2): Pikeun nyambungkeun tampilan.

Figure 5: Dimensions of the Protectli Vault FW4B.
4. Setélan
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)
- Pareum listrik: Ensure the device is unplugged from the power source.
- Casis Kabuka: Carefully remove the screws securing the bottom panel of the FW4B.
- Pasang RAM: 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.
- Tutup Chassis: Replace the bottom panel and secure it with the screws.
Catetan: Refer to the Protectli website or contact support for compatible RAM and mSATA SSD models if you encounter issues.
4.2 Sambungan Awal
- Sambungkeun Tampilan (Opsional): Connect a monitor to one of the HDMI ports.
- Connect Keyboard (Optional): Connect a USB keyboard to a USB 3.0 port.
- Sambungkeun Jaringan:
- Connect your ISP modem to the WAN palabuhan.
- Sambungkeun komputer atanapi switch jaringan anjeun ka LAN palabuhan.
- Daya Hurung: 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 Pamasangan Sistem Operasi
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:
Pikeun masang sistem operasi:
- Download the desired OS image (e.g., ISO file) from the official websitus.
- 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 DEL 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.
Tip: Many open-source firewall distributions offer detailed installation guides on their respective websites. Protectli also provides resources on their knowledge base.
5. Parentah Operasi
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 Daya Hurung/Pareuman
- Daya Hurung: Press the power button on the rear panel. The power LED will illuminate.
- Pareum listrik: 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 Konfigurasi Jaringan
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
- Aturan firewall
- jasa VPN
- Additional network services
penting: Always refer to the documentation of your installed operating system for detailed network configuration steps.
6. Pangropéa
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Protectli Vault FW4B.
6.1 beberesih
- Simpen alat dina lingkungan anu bersih, bebas lebu.
- Periodically wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
- Hindarkeun nganggo pembersih cair langsung dina alat.
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 Manajemén panas
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.
7. Cara ngungkulan
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Protectli Vault FW4B.
| Masalah | Mungkin Cukang lantaranana | Solusi |
|---|---|---|
| Alat teu hurung. | Teu aya listrik, adaptor daya rusak, sambunganna kendor. | Verify power outlet, check power adapter and cable connections. Ensure the power button is pressed firmly. |
| Taya kaluaran tampilan. | 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). |
| Masalah konektipitas jaringan. | 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. Spésifikasi
| Fitur | Rincian |
|---|---|
| Modél | FW4B |
| Prosesor | Intel Quad Core Celeron J3160, 64-bit, up to 2.2GHz, AES-NI support |
| palabuhan Ethernet | 4x Intel Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| palabuhan USB | 2x USB 3.0 |
| Kaluaran Video | 2 x HDMI |
| Serial Port | 1x RJ-45 COM |
| RAM (Barebone) | No RAM included (supports DDR3L SO-DIMM) |
| Storage (Barebone) | No mSATA SSD included |
| BIOS | AMI BIOS (coreboot optional, user-installable) |
| Sistem operasi | OS Agnostic (No OS pre-installed) |
| Ukuran (L x W x H) | 4.5 x 4.3 x 1.5 inci (115 x 107.5 x 39 mm) |
| Beurat | 1.25 pon (kira-kira 0.57 kg) |
| Input kakuatan | DC 12V |
9. Garansi jeung Rojongan
Protectli offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and US-based customer support for the Vault FW4B.
- Rojongan Palanggan: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Protectli websitus pikeun inpo kontak.
- Dasar Pangaweruh: An extensive online knowledge base is available with detailed articles and guides for installation and configuration.
- Garansi: Specific warranty terms and conditions are available on the Protectli websitus.

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





