Book Image

Learn pfSense 2.4

By : David Zientara
Book Image

Learn pfSense 2.4

By: David Zientara

Overview of this book

As computer networks become ubiquitous, it has become increasingly important to both secure and optimize our networks. pfSense, an open-source router/firewall, provides an easy, cost-effective way of achieving this – and this book explains how to install and configure pfSense in such a way that even a networking beginner can successfully deploy and use pfSense. This book begins by covering networking fundamentals, deployment scenarios, and hardware sizing guidelines, as well as how to install pfSense. The book then covers configuration of basic services such as DHCP, DNS, and captive portal and VLAN configuration. Careful consideration is given to the core firewall functionality of pfSense, and how to set up firewall rules and traffic shaping. Finally, the book covers the basics of VPNs, multi-WAN setups, routing and bridging, and how to perform diagnostics and troubleshooting on a network.
Table of Contents (14 chapters)

Summary

In this chapter, we covered troubleshooting fundamentals, including a basic troubleshooting procedure you can employ in any networking troubleshooting scenario. We covered some common problems and troubleshooting tools you can use. We also put these fundamentals into practice by considering a real-world networking problem.

Needless to say, we have really only laid a foundation here for understanding diagnosis and troubleshooting of networks. There are many resources available for learning how to troubleshoot networks, not the least of which are networking professionals who can provide invaluable expertise on many issues. Of course, there is no substitute for practical experience, and as you become more skilled in building and maintaining networks, you will become more skilled at troubleshooting.