Top 10 Recommended Linux Firewall Solutions

There are plenty of firewall options out there, from easy-to-use tools for beginners to powerful security solutions for advanced users. We’ve rounded up ten of the best firewalls in 2025, whether you prefer something simple or need top-tier protection.

1. iptables

iptables has been a go-to tool for managing Linux firewalls for years. It lets you control network traffic with detailed rules, making it a favorite among advanced users. While it’s now considered legacy software and largely replaced by nftables, it’s still widely used, especially on older systems.

Why Use It?

• Fine-tuned rule chains for precise traffic control.
• Well-documented with a strong (though less active) community.
• Ideal for maintaining compatibility with older Linux setups.

Availability:
Comes pre-installed on many older Linux distributions.

2. Nftables: The Modern Linux Firewall

Nftables is the next-generation firewall for Linux, replacing the old iptables with a simpler, faster, and more efficient system. It’s designed to be easier to configure while offering better performance and seamless support for both IPv4 and IPv6.

Why Use Nftables?

• One Rule for All – No need to write separate rules for IPv4 and IPv6.
• Faster Performance – Supports hardware acceleration for improved speed.
• Cleaner Syntax – Simplified rules mean fewer mistakes and easier management.

Where to Get It

Nftables is open-source and comes pre-installed or available in most Linux distributions.

3. Firewalld: Simple and User-Friendly Firewall Management

Firewalld makes managing your firewall easier with a user-friendly approach. Built on nftables, it removes the complexity of manually handling firewall rules by using zones—each with its own set of rules. This makes it simple to manage different network connections.

Why Use Firewalld?

• Easy Zone-Based Management – Set rules for different interfaces without hassle.
• No Restarts Needed – Apply changes dynamically without restarting services.
• Beginner-Friendly – Works with GUI tools like Cockpit for simple setup.

Availability

Firewalld is open-source and comes preinstalled in RHEL 7+, CentOS, AlmaLinux, Fedora, and other RHEL-based distros.

4. UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall)

UFW is designed for simplicity, making it easy to set up firewall rules. It’s the default firewall tool for Ubuntu-based systems and is great for beginners.

Why Use It?

• Simple and easy-to-remember commands.
• Pre-configured profiles for common services.
• Perfect for small projects or personal use.

Availability:
Open-source and usually included in most Linux repositories.

5. CSF (ConfigServer Security & Firewall)

CSF is a powerful security tool with built-in intrusion detection and login failure tracking. It’s popular in web hosting, especially with cPanel, and helps admins keep their servers locked down.

Why Use It?

• Detects failed logins to prevent unauthorized access.
• Sends real-time alerts about security threats.
• Uses stateful packet inspection for thorough traffic monitoring.

Get It: Free from the ConfigServer website.

6. Shorewall

Shorewall makes managing firewall rules easier with simple config files. It’s great for multi-zone networks and admins who want more control.

Why Use It?

• Zone-based system for better traffic management.
• Detailed logging for troubleshooting.
• Strong IPv6 and NAT support.

Get It: Available in most Linux repositories.

7. IPFire

IPFire is a standalone firewall OS packed with security features like intrusion detection and VPN support. It’s ideal for dedicated firewall hardware.

Why Use It?

• Built-in intrusion detection for threat monitoring.
• Easy-to-use web interface.
• Secure VPN support for remote access.

Get It: Download the ISO from the IPFire website.

8. pfSense

Though based on FreeBSD, pfSense runs in a VM on Linux and offers enterprise-level firewall and routing features.

Why Use It?

• User-friendly web interface with advanced tools.
• Supports VPN, load balancing, and failover setups.

Get It: Free, with paid support from Netgate.

9. OpenWRT

OpenWRT is a customizable firewall and router OS for embedded devices, ideal for home networks and IoT setups.

Why Use It?

• Huge package library for custom setups.
• Includes traffic shaping, monitoring, and QoS tools.
• Great for managing router firmware.

Get It: Free from the OpenWRT website.

10. VyOS

VyOS is a Linux-based network OS with advanced routing and firewall capabilities, perfect for large or complex networks.

Why Use It?

• Command-line interface for precise control.
• Supports dynamic routing (BGP, OSPF).
• Reliable and frequently updated.

Get It: Free version available, with paid enterprise support at VyOS.