How many PC's can connect to firewall? 1

[luddyspence]

I have 20 laptops to connect to a firewall. I am thinking of using a Linksys BEFSX41 EtherFast Cable/DSL Firewall Router w/ 4-port Switch/VPN Endpoint. Will this support 20 computers? There is no info on the amount of PC's that it will support or maybe it does not matter.

 

[jimbopalmer]

In theory, 253.

I tried to remain child-like, all I acheived was childish.

 

[burtsbees]

Actually, if it does VLANs, like four (like the Cisco 87x), it could handle 1,012.

I think you're good.

Burt

 

[luddyspence]

Thanks. I was thinking of using a Sonicwall but this is cheaper.

When would I use a Sonicwall firewall?

 

[jimbopalmer]

The sonic wall can do virus scanning internally before users get their files, it can block sites based on vendor lists.

I tried to remain child-like, all I acheived was childish.

 

[cajuntank]

I personally would go with the Sonicwall. It's a dedicated security appliance, hardend OS, plus the security features of antivirus, antispyware, and intrusion prevention all at the gateway level (subscription is required for the security features).

The problem with Linksys, Belkin, D-Link, etc... routers is that they are built for the SOHO market. They were never built with the intention of more than about 5-10 users and to operate under heavy loads for extended periods of time. That's what you'll get with commercial grade equipment like Sonicwall, Cisco, Watchguard, Juniper, Fortinet, etc...

I'd be looking at one of the TZ series boxes with the wireless-N built in. Buy hey, that my opinion.