Hire the Best PfSense Specialists

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Muhammad U.

Multan, Pakistan

$40/hr
5.0
33 jobs

I help businesses design, troubleshoot, and secure reliable networks so operations stay stable and risk stays low, with 9+ years of hands-on experience across Firewall, VPN, SD-WAN, and pfSense environments. Network & Security Engineer (CCNP) | MikroTik (MTCNA) | Fortinet | Cisco | Monitoring | Windows Server | Cloud I focus on scalable, documented, long-term fixes — not temporary patches — and communicate clearly throughout every project. What I can help you with • Network Design & Troubleshooting — LAN/WAN/Wi-Fi, VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, BGP/OSPF, STP, subnetting, site-to-site connectivity, performance tuning • Firewall Hardening — Fortinet (FortiGate), pfSense, Cisco ASA, UniFi — NAT, DMZ, segmentation, security policy design • VPN & Secure Remote Access — IPsec, SSL, WireGuard, OpenVPN, Xray/V2Ray — site-to-site and remote-access tunnels for distributed teams • SD-WAN & Multi-Site Connectivity — centralized policy management, WAN optimization, resilient failover across branch locations • MikroTik RouterOS & WISP Operations — routing, firewall, QoS/bandwidth shaping, wireless optimization, ISP-grade troubleshooting • Network Automation & Scripting — Python, Git version control, automated provisioning and configuration deployment • Security Assessments & Compliance — vulnerability assessments, penetration test reporting, and hardening aligned to NIST CSF 2.0, CIS Controls v8, and ISO/IEC 27001 • Endpoint & Identity Security — Microsoft 365/Intune device management, endpoint hardening, Active Directory, DNS/DHCP • Monitoring & Alerting — Zabbix, PRTG, SNMP dashboards, proactive issue detection and reporting • Servers & Virtualization — Windows Server, Linux, VMware ESXi, Hyper-V, disaster recovery/backup planning • Cloud & Hybrid Networking — AWS and GCP connectivity, hybrid architecture, migration support Example results delivered • Ransomware recovery + security hardening: recovered 91% of encrypted files and implemented protective controls • Multi-site network (50+ employees): reduced downtime 87% and saved $15,000/year through optimized architecture • Secure VPN rollout (3 countries): enabled remote work for 30+ users across multiple locations How I work • Quick assessment → clear plan → controlled changes → testing → full documentation • Secure-by-default approach and clean, maintainable configurations • Available for one-time projects, ongoing managed services, and urgent troubleshooting Send me a short summary of your environment (devices, number of sites/users, ISP links, current issues/goals), and I’ll reply with a practical plan and next steps.

  • PfSense
  • Network Administration
  • Network Security
  • Network Engineering
  • Network Design
  • Firewall
  • VPN
  • Fortinet
  • WAN Optimization
  • MikroTik
  • Cisco
  • Network Architecture
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Penetration Testing
  • Server Administration
  • System Monitoring
  • Cloud Engineering
  • Information Security Audit
  • Linux System Administration
  • OpenVPN
Ali Rehan T.

Lahore, Pakistan

$30/hr
4.8
86 jobs

I deploy 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 applications and build 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗺𝗼𝘅 and self-hosted 𝗞𝘂𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀 environments. I handle the 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘅, networking, storage, backups, and monitoring behind them, with clear documentation for your team. My specialty is infrastructure you own. I work across the hypervisor, Linux host, network, and container platform to get deployments working and resolve problems between those layers. CLIENT WORK & PORTFOLIO Client work includes 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘅 VMs on 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗺𝗼𝘅, 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 and 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿 setup, and 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗺𝗼𝘅 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘂𝗽 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗿 configuration with documented restore testing. I also build 𝗭𝗮𝗯𝗯𝗶𝘅 𝗱𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 that help clients monitor infrastructure health and resource usage. My portfolio covers 𝗗𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 infrastructure, 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗺𝗼𝘅 with 𝗖𝗲𝗽𝗵 and 𝗭𝗙𝗦, and 𝗞𝘂𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀 with 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗖𝗲𝗽𝗵. DOCKER DEPLOYMENT & OPERATIONS • Docker, Docker Compose and Portainer • Container networking, persistent storage and logging • Reverse proxies, SSL/TLS, troubleshooting and recovery PROXMOX & MIGRATIONS • Proxmox clusters, high availability and live migration • VMware and Hyper-V migration planning to Proxmox • Ceph, ZFS, Proxmox Backup Server and restore testing • Cutover sequencing and rollback planning SELF-HOSTED KUBERNETES • Kubernetes on bare metal and virtual machines • CNI, ingress, MetalLB and connectivity troubleshooting • Rook Ceph, persistent storage and cluster operations LINUX, MONITORING & AUTOMATION • Ubuntu, Debian and Rocky Linux/RHEL administration • Zabbix monitoring and custom infrastructure dashboards • Prometheus, Grafana, monitoring and alerting • NGINX, DNS, system hardening, Bash and Ansible PFSENSE, OPNSENSE & NETWORKING My background includes substantial client work with pfSense, OPNsense and network troubleshooting. • Firewall configuration, VLANs, routing and NAT • Network segmentation, multi-WAN and failover • Connectivity diagnostics across firewalls, hypervisors and Linux hosts HOW I WORK Assess the environment, agree on scope, plan the change, implement, validate and document. Recovery and handover are part of the work. Send me your current setup, the outcome you need, and any downtime constraints. I’ll explain the approach and what the work involves.

  • PfSense
  • Docker
  • Docker Compose
  • Proxmox VE
  • Kubernetes
  • Zabbix
  • Linux System Administration
  • Ubiquiti
  • System Administration
  • Network Administration
  • Ceph
  • Ansible
  • VMware ESX Server
  • Microsoft Hyper-V Server
  • NGINX
  • Network Security
  • Virtualization
  • Linux
  • VMware Administration
Mohammed Abul Azad F.

Chittagong, Bangladesh

$25/hr
5.0
60 jobs

✅ Senior Infrastructure & DevOps Engineer | 120+ Projects | 8+ Years of Experience I’m Mohammed Faisal, a Senior Infrastructure & DevOps Engineer specializing in secure, scalable, highly available infrastructure. I’ve delivered more than 120 infrastructure projects, managed environments containing thousands of servers and virtual machines, and supported over 50 clients across multiple industries. I help businesses replace fragile, expensive, and overly complex infrastructure with environments that are reliable, documented, monitored, recoverable, and ready to scale. ⭐ What I Can Bring to Your Project ⭐ ✅ Proxmox VE, Proxmox Backup Server, and Ceph expertise ✅ VMware and Hyper-V workload migrations ✅ Private and hybrid cloud architecture ✅ OpenStack and Apache CloudStack deployments ✅ Kubernetes and container infrastructure ✅ High availability and disaster-recovery solutions ✅ Terraform, Ansible, Packer, and GitOps automation ✅ AWS and Microsoft Azure infrastructure ✅ NetBox automated infrastructure documentation ✅ Zabbix, Grafana, and Prometheus monitoring ✅ Network segmentation, VLANs, VPNs, and firewalls ✅ WireGuard and zero-trust remote access ✅ Backup, replication, and recovery architecture ✅ Linux and Windows Server administration ✅ Infrastructure security and hardening ⭐ Projects I Specialize In ⭐ ✅ VMware-to-Proxmox migrations with minimal downtime ✅ Multi-node Proxmox and Ceph clusters ✅ Private-cloud and hybrid-cloud platforms ✅ Multi-region infrastructure environments ✅ Proxmox Backup Server and off-site disaster recovery ✅ Automated Proxmox-to-NetBox asset discovery ✅ Infrastructure-as-Code deployment pipelines ✅ Automated VM discovery and Zabbix monitoring ✅ Grafana infrastructure dashboards ✅ Windows and Linux image automation using Packer ✅ Kubernetes deployment and operations ✅ Secure remote administration environments ✅ Business continuity and disaster-recovery planning ⭐ Why Clients Choose to Work With Me ⭐ ✅ Business-Focused Solutions: I recommend technology based on your operational requirements, budget, risks, and growth plans—not unnecessary complexity. ✅ End-to-End Delivery: I can manage your project from assessment and architecture through implementation, testing, documentation, and ongoing support. ✅ Reliability and Security: Every environment is designed with monitoring, backups, access control, recovery, and security in mind. ✅ Clear Communication: You will receive regular progress updates, clear explanations, and complete visibility throughout the project. ✅ Documentation: I provide infrastructure diagrams, configuration records, procedures, and knowledge transfer so your team can confidently manage the environment. ✅ Problem Solving: Whether you are experiencing performance issues, migration challenges, outages, security risks, or rising infrastructure costs, I focus on identifying the root cause and implementing a practical solution. ⭐ My Typical Project Workflow ⭐ 1. Infrastructure assessment 2. Architecture and migration planning 3. Risk and dependency identification 4. Implementation and testing 5. Monitoring and backup configuration 6. Security hardening 7. Documentation and infrastructure diagrams 8. Knowledge transfer and ongoing support I work effectively with CTOs, founders, internal IT departments, MSPs, developers, and engineering teams. I can communicate detailed technical information while also explaining the business impact, risks, costs, and recommended strategy. Technology Stack: Proxmox | VMware | Hyper-V | Ceph | OpenStack | CloudStack | Kubernetes | Docker | AWS | Azure | Linux | Windows Server | Terraform | Ansible | Packer | GitLab CI/CD | NetBox | Zabbix | Grafana | Prometheus | Nginx | HAProxy | WireGuard | Cloudflare If you are planning a migration, building a private cloud, reducing VMware or cloud costs, improving disaster recovery, automating infrastructure, or reviewing an existing environment, I can help. Send me a brief description of your infrastructure and the challenge you are facing. I’ll help you identify the most practical, secure, and cost-effective way forward.

  • Docker
  • Proxmox VE
  • AWS Application
  • Linux System Administration
  • System Administration
  • Zero Trust Architecture
  • VMware Administration
  • VMware ESX Server
  • Microsoft Azure Administration
  • Windows Server
  • Azure DevOps
  • Terraform
  • Kubernetes
  • Ceph
  • Cloud Architecture
  • OpenStack
  • OpenShift
Jeric D.

Paranaque City, Philippines

$30/hr
5.0
9 jobs

Hi, I’m Jeric a seasoned IT Support Specialist and Project Engineer with over 10 years of experience helping businesses streamline, secure, and optimize their IT infrastructure. I specialize in working with MSPs and SMBs to deliver reliable, secure, and automated IT solutions tailored to your unique environment. 🛠️ What I Do Best End-to-End IT Support & Troubleshooting Desktop, server, and network issue resolution for Windows-based environments. Microsoft 365 & Azure Administration Mailbox management, MFA, Conditional Access, Exchange Online, Intune, SharePoint, and Teams deployment. Firewall & Security Management Fortinet configuration, VPN setups, interface monitoring, failover, static IP setup, and firmware management. Automation & Deployment Scripting via PowerShell, automation using ImmyBot, onboarding flows using Rewst and IT Glue integration. Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM) Skilled in deploying and managing devices using tools like NinjaOne, Datto, Kaseya and other RMM platforms. Onboarding & Documentation Process automation for new device setup, software deployment, user access configuration, and IT Glue documentation. 🧠 Why Work With Me? Detail-oriented, reliable, and highly responsive. Experience working with multiple clients across different industries. Proven ability to reduce manual workload through automation and scripting. Committed to security, documentation, and long-term IT stability. 📌 Let’s Work Together Whether you need help with day-to-day IT operations, special projects, or automation deployments — I’m here to support your team and help you scale securely. Let’s connect and talk about how I can contribute to your goals.

  • Computer Network
  • Information Security
  • Computing & Networking
  • Python
  • Network Engineering
  • Firewall
  • Microsoft Active Directory
  • VPN
  • Security Infrastructure
  • Automation
  • Windows Server
  • DNS
  • Video Editing
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Data Science
Antoine D.

Zgharta, Lebanon

$50/hr
4.9
133 jobs

Experienced Network Operations Center Team Lead with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. - expert in building vpn platforms - expert in Networking, Cisco Systems Products( R&S, Security and Collaboration). - expert in Palo alto , Fortinet, PFSense firewalls, Mikrotik router, VPN - very good experience in Vmware ESXi, Ubiquity, Unify , windows Servers - very good exprience in cloud (AWS, GCP, Azure, Oracle OCI) - very good experience in linux -very good experience in docker, kubernetes -very good experience in git, ci/cd - Strong Development Skills specially network development(C#, .net web API , asp.net mvc) - .net core web api, microservices, rabbitmq, Rest API, EF

  • PfSense
  • Ubiquiti
  • Network Design
  • VPN
  • Network Security
  • .NET Framework
  • Cisco ASA
  • MikroTik RouterOS
  • C#
  • Cisco CallManager
  • .NET Core
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional
  • Cisco Router
  • Virtual Private Server
Alana Mariam T.

Cochin, India

$18/hr
5.0
203 jobs

With more than a decade of hands-on experience in Linux server administration, I bring deep expertise in managing, optimizing, and troubleshooting complex Linux infrastructures. I have provided enterprise-grade web hosting and server support for major platforms including Hostinger, GoDaddy, Bluehost, OVH, DigitalOcean, Hetzner, and IONOS, supporting large-scale shared, VPS, and dedicated environments. My skill set includes comprehensive WordPress management and migrations, covering site deployments, performance optimization, security remediation, malware cleanup, and zero-downtime migrations. I also specialize in architecting and maintaining robust web stacks using Apache, Nginx, BIND DNS, PHP (5.x–8.x), and MySQL/MariaDB, with a strong focus on reliability, performance, and security. I have a proven track record of handling critical tasks such as server security hardening, kernel upgrades, and server performance optimization. Additionally, I am proficient in administering and monitoring Linux servers remotely using advanced tools and technologies. Key Specialties: Linux System Administration (CentOS, AlmaLinux, RHEL, Debian, Ubuntu, CloudLinux) Large-scale server migrations, including WordPress and Joomla migrations Server upgrades, including CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 8/9/10 transitions Expertise in web hosting panels (cPanel, Plesk, DirectAdmin, Virtualmin) and cloud solutions (AWS EC2, Lightsail, DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, Google Cloud) Expertise in DNS integration for Shopify, Wix, Cloudflare, Google WorkSpace, Microsoft 365 DNS administration, including advanced configurations for SPF, DMARC, and DKIM PCI compliance management, server disaster recovery, and data restoration Website security, including hack cleanups and proactive hardening Tools and Technologies: LAMP stacks, DNS, and mail servers (Exim/Postfix) Backup solutions (R1Soft, rsync-based scripting) Server monitoring (Nagios) and optimization tools Security-focused tools like CSF and LFD If you're looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Linux server administrator who can ensure your systems run smoothly and securely, let's collaborate to meet your technical goals.

  • WordPress Migration
  • DNS
  • CentOS
  • MariaDB
  • AWS Server Migration
  • Backup & Migration
  • Server
  • Bash Programming
  • MySQL
  • Amazon Lightsail
  • Website Migration
  • cPanel
  • Debian
  • Linux System Administration
  • Ubuntu

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Don't just take our word for it

What does a PfSense specialist do?

A pfsense specialist configures and maintains the pfsense firewall and router to implement secure network connectivity. This professional manages interface assignments, virtual local area networks, and network address translation rules to control traffic flows. They also handle virtual private network settings and perform troubleshooting for upgrades or package issues to keep the system running correctly.

  • Design and apply interface assignments for wide area networks, local area networks, and optional ports alongside virtual local area network configuration as required for the specific network layout. This work involves planning the logical separation of traffic and implementing it through the pfsense web graphical user interface to ensure distinct broadcast domains and proper routing between segments.
  • Create and maintain firewall and network address translation rules to control traffic flows and define policy for traffic destined for local resources, virtual private network endpoints, and gatewayed destinations. The specialist adjusts rule behavior to match security requirements and ensures that automatic rule handling for virtual private network connections aligns with the intended access controls for remote users or site-to-site links.
  • Manage configuration backups, restores, and migration processes to ensure recovery from system upgrades or hardware failures. This includes taking encrypted configuration backups, testing restore compatibility, and troubleshooting package or log issues that arise after an upgrade by using the backup file to recover a working state if the new version introduces conflicts.

How to hire a PfSense specialist on Upwork

Step 1: Post a job

Describe your network security needs in a few sentences and let Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI draft a complete job post for you. You can write a new post from scratch, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post to save time.

  • Specify requirements for interface assignments across WAN, LAN, and OPT ports along with VLAN segmentation plans.
  • List necessary firewall and NAT rules that control traffic flows to local networks and VPN destinations.
  • Define expectations for configuration backups, restore procedures, and troubleshooting during system upgrades.

Step 2: Evaluate candidates

Look for portfolios that demonstrate hands-on experience with pfSense Web GUI configurations and successful network migrations. Uma can run instant video interviews and build shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you identify the best fit.

  • Verify past work includes documented firewall rule sets that enforce specific traffic policies without blocking legitimate access.
  • Check for evidence of VPN setup projects where the specialist adjusted auto-added firewall rules for secure remote access.
  • Confirm experience with XML configuration backups and tested restore processes that recover systems after failed upgrades.

Step 3: Interview your top choices

Discuss specific scenarios involving package conflicts and log analysis to gauge their troubleshooting depth. Interviews can be scheduled and conducted within Upwork Messages with an immediate transcript and summary after each one.

  • Ask how they plan interface layouts before implementing changes via the pfSense configuration pages.
  • Request examples of how they resolved upgrade issues using prior backups and package manager logs.
  • Inquire about their process for testing VPN connectivity and adjusting associated firewall behaviors.

Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work

Define clear milestones for delivering working configurations and verified backup procedures. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for communication and project management, plus identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds for security.

  • Set a milestone for the initial setup of interfaces, VLANs, and basic WAN/LAN assignments.
  • Agree on a deliverable for the final firewall and NAT rule set that matches your agreed traffic policy.
  • Include a final step for documenting the backup restore procedure and confirming successful recovery tests.

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this article. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.

How much does hiring a PfSense specialist cost?

$500-$1,500 per project is a typical range for focused PfSense specialist work. Final pricing depends on scope, technical complexity, required integrations, source-material quality, revision needs, and the freelancer's experience level.

Configuration backup and restore

$500-$1,000/project

Entry-level to mid-level
  • Documented steps for encrypted configuration backups
  • Verified restoration of XML configuration files
  • Written guide for system recovery after failure

Interface and VLAN setup

$1,000-$2,000/project

Mid-level
  • Defined WAN, LAN, and OPT interface assignments
  • Configured virtual LANs for traffic segmentation
  • Validated network access across assigned interfaces

Firewall and NAT rules

$2,000-$4,000/project

Mid-level to senior-level
  • Created firewall policies for local and gateway traffic
  • Applied network address translation for outbound flows
  • Reviewed logs to confirm rule behavior and blocking

VPN configuration

$4,000-$7,500/project

Senior-level
  • Established secure remote access or site-to-site links
  • Modified firewall rules to allow VPN destination traffic
  • Confirmed connectivity for remote users or branches

System upgrade and troubleshooting

$7,500-$12,000/project

Expert-level
  • Performed pfSense version update with prior backup
  • Fixed package conflicts or configuration errors post-upgrade
  • Documented resolved issues and final system status

Frequently asked questions

Is hiring a PfSense specialist worth it?

For most businesses, yes: hiring a PfSense specialist is worthwhile. This expert configures firewall rules and VLANs to secure your network traffic against unauthorized access. They also manage VPN setups and handle complex upgrades without disrupting your connectivity.

How do I evaluate PfSense specialist candidates?

Review their experience with specific pfSense deliverables such as interface assignments and NAT rule creation. Ask for examples of how they resolved package conflicts or restored configurations after a failed upgrade using XML backups.

What tasks does a PfSense specialist perform?

A PfSense specialist designs interface layouts and applies firewall policies to control data flow. They configure VPN settings and troubleshoot system logs to maintain stable network performance.

How does a PfSense specialist secure my network?

They build strict firewall and NAT rules that block unwanted traffic while allowing legitimate connections. This specialist also sets up encrypted VPN tunnels to protect remote access points.