OPNsense Forum

Archive => 23.7 Legacy Series => Topic started by: ulysse132 on November 21, 2023, 11:20:09 AM

Title: Transform a multi nic mini pc into manageable switch
Post by: ulysse132 on November 21, 2023, 11:20:09 AM
Hello,

I have a mini pc with 4 nics. My network has 5 vlan and is managed by an other device using a single trunk port.

I want to install OPNsense on this mini pc to make it a manageable switch. I want to configure OPNsense so that I can tell which vlan goes on which ethernet port, and configure which ones are tagged and which one is not tagged.

I have the feeling I should use this tuto : https://docs.opnsense.org/manual/how-tos/transparent_bridge.html (https://docs.opnsense.org/manual/how-tos/transparent_bridge.html)
But certainely should I adapt it.

My thought is to create vlan 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 on each port and then create bridges to bind all the requiered interfaces. If a vlan is in the bridge, it is tagged, if the port is in the bridge, it is not tagged. Am I right ?

Last but not least, how should I configure the ip of OPNsense for later reconfiguration of the port ?

I know software switch is not really speed effective, but let me try and judge.

What I really want to recreate is something like this : https://wiki.mikrotik.com/wiki/SWOS/CSS326-VLAN-Example (https://wiki.mikrotik.com/wiki/SWOS/CSS326-VLAN-Example)

Thanks a lot for your help !
Title: Re: Transform a multi nic mini pc into manageable switch
Post by: Maurice on November 21, 2023, 02:31:24 PM
I do get that some people want to use their router as a switch, too. Like consumer routers do, all in one, no separate switch required. I get it.

But a PC as dedicated switch? That's a new one. Makes no sense at all. A 5-port managed gigabit switch is like 20 bucks (probably almost free if you get a used one), more reliable, easier to configure, lower power consumption(!), ...

Cheers
Maurice
Title: Re: Transform a multi nic mini pc into manageable switch
Post by: ulysse132 on November 21, 2023, 03:54:14 PM
There is a reason to use it that way and I don't want to explain (yet) because we will enter into debate and I won't get an answer to my question.
If you could help me, I'll be thankfull.