Can a Thinvent Thin Client Run pfSense?
pfSense runs on 64-bit amd64 (x86-64) hardware. The minimum requirements are a 64-bit CPU, 1 GB or more of RAM, an 8 GB or larger disk drive, and one or more compatible network interface cards. Thinvent Neo S thin clients use the Intel Celeron J1900 processor, a 64-bit x86 chip with 4 cores running up to 2.4 GHz and 2 MB of cache. Each Neo S model has 4 GB or 8 GB of DDR3 RAM and 32 GB to 256 GB of SSD storage, which meets the stated minimums.
Key Specifications
The Neo S range shares the same processor, core count, clock speed and cache across all models. The differences are in memory, storage, operating system and power adapter.
| Model Feature | Neo S Options |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron J1900, 4 cores, up to 2.4 GHz, 2 MB cache |
| Memory | 4 GB or 8 GB DDR3 RAM |
| Storage | 32 GB MLC SSD, 128 GB SSD, or 256 GB SSD (some models use two SSDs) |
| Power adapter | 19V 1.3A or 19V 3A |
| Wireless | Not included |
| Operating system | Ubuntu Linux, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 Professional, DOS, or no OS |
The Thinvent Micro 5R uses an ARM Cortex A53 processor with 4 cores up to 2.0 GHz, 2 GB RAM and 16 GB eMMC storage. Its ARM architecture is not the amd64 architecture that pfSense requires, so the Micro 5R is not suitable for pfSense.
Choosing Memory and Storage for a Firewall
The pfSense minimum of 1 GB RAM and 8 GB disk applies to a basic router. Firewalls with more concurrent connections, VPN tunnels, or packages such as Suricata or Snort need more memory and throughput. The 8 GB RAM Neo S models give more room for these features than the 4 GB models. A 256 GB SSD gives space for logs, packet captures and package data.
Fanless operation suits a firewall that runs continuously in a small cabinet or an office closet. The Neo S models have no moving parts in the chassis cooling path that depend on a fan for their processor.
Use Cases
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Small office or branch firewall running pfSense
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Home lab or test network for learning pfSense
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Edge router for a site with a modest number of users
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Dedicated Windows 11 or Linux management terminal alongside a firewall
Thinvent Products for This Use
The Thinvent Neo S thin client range, with the Intel J1900 processor, is the Thinvent product line for pfSense use. Choose a model with 8 GB RAM and a 256 GB SSD for the most headroom. Models without an operating system let you install pfSense or another x86-64 system directly.
