We have previously looked at OPNSense, the fantastic solution as a router, firewall and VPN server. As part of our Build your own homelab series, we already have another VPN solution running, Tailscale/Headscale. So today we are asking the question: Is it really still necessary for us to run OPNSense in our Homelab if we are going to be adding services like VPN via our Homelab server node?
What Is OPNSense?
OPNSense is an open-source firewall and routing platform based on FreeBSD, originally forked from pfSense in January 2015. It provides a modern web-based interface, frequent security updates, and plugins for features like intrusion detection, traffic shaping, captive portal and next-generation firewall functionality via the Zenarmor plugin. Downsides include hardware requirements, a learning curve, limited wireless integration, and a smaller community than some rivals.
Why Run OPNSense in Your Homelab?
OPNSense is immesely popular with Homelabbers and self-hosters, so let’s first look at why so many users are turning to OPNSense for their home network setups:
- Granular Control & Visibility: Replacing a consumer SOHO router gives deep insights into traffic, per-device rules, and detailed logs.
- Advanced Security: Out-of-the-box support for VPNs (IPsec, OpenVPN, WireGuard), VLAN segmentation, and plugin-based IDS/IPS delivers enterprise-style protection.
- Learning & Experimentation: Homelabbers often use OPNSense to practice network design, scripted deployments, and test cutting-edge firewall features in a safe, isolated environment.
Downsides of OPNSense
When planning an OPNSense deployment, consider CPU/memory needs, physical NIC count, update and backup processes, and network topology (VLANs vs. bridges). For simple home setups—or if you’d rather avoid that complexity – consumer “all-in-one” mesh routers like TP-Link Deco (e.g. X20, XE75, M4) or products from Ubiquiti, Netgear, or Asus can provide firewall, NAT, QoS, and Wi-Fi in one package. Let’s take a look at some detailed downsides:
- Hardware Demands: To achieve line-rate throughput – especially with multiple plugins enabled – you’ll need a multi-core CPU, at least 4 GB RAM, and several NICs. Low-power mini-PCs often struggle. Although we have looked at running OPNSense on a Raspberry Pi, it might struggle with high-demand networks. Also, the default Raspberry Pi NIC is only 1Gbps, so take that into account if you have a multi-gig network or internet connection, as all connections will be maxed at 1Gbps.
- Steep Learning Curve: Non-technical users may find building rulesets, VLANs, and plugin configurations daunting compared to a consumer router’s app.
- Limited Wireless & Simplified Functions: OPNSense doesn’t manage Wi-Fi radios – you’ll need separate AP hardware. And its firewall is fundamentally a stateful-packet-inspection (SPI) engine, blind to encrypted traffic without extra tooling.
- Smaller Community vs. pfSense: While active, the OPNSense forums and subreddit are smaller, so troubleshooting niche issues can take longer. If looking at a good hardware router, like TP-Link Deco or Ubiquiti, the support base is multiples bigger and more active than OPNSense, or even pfSense for that matter.
Key Considerations When Deploying OPNSense
- Right-sized Hardware: Match CPU cores and RAM to your expected throughput and services. Intel NICs often have better FreeBSD driver support.
- Network Topology & VLANs: Plan whether to use software bridges or a dedicated switch. Bridges can work but may reduce throughput compared to hardware-accelerated switches.
- Plugin & Update Strategy: Plugins (e.g., Zenarmor for NGFW) add security but also CPU/memory overhead; schedule regular, tested backups before system upgrades.
- Backup & High Availability: If uptime matters, implement configuration backups and consider CARP (Common Address Redundancy Protocol) in multi-node setups.
- Monitoring & Logging: Enable remote logging or use tools like Prometheus/Grafana to avoid filling local storage with logs.
When OPNSense Isn’t Ideal & Consumer Alternatives
OPNSense may be overkill if you just want plug-and-play internet and Wi-Fi with basic parental controls. In those cases, mesh routers or integrated gateway/APs can simplify life immensely. Look at the TP-Link Deco range as a fantastic, and cost-effective, all-in-one solution with most of the features from OPNSense. Other turnkey gateway options include Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Router, Asus AiMesh routers, or Netgear Orbi systems – each bundling routing, firewall, VPN, and Wi-Fi in one appliance.
Conclusion
Running OPNSense in your homelab unlocks enterprise-grade firewalling, VLAN segmentation, VPNs, and next-generation features – ideal for tinkering, learning, and securing complex networks. But it comes with hardware, configuration, and maintenance overhead that may not suit simple home setups. Before choosing OPNSense, assess your requirements for throughput, wireless integration, and willingness to manage OpenBSD-style networking. If you prefer an “app-only” experience, consumer mesh routers like the TP-Link Deco series or integrated gateway/APs can deliver a simpler yet capable alternative. Whichever path you choose, understanding these trade-offs ensures your home network is secure, scalable, and aligned with your technical comfort level.