Configuring OPNsense without using router bridge mode?

[P195]

Hi All,

It's my first post here. I've just installed OPNsense for the first time and switched my ISP's router into bridge mode which allowed me to access the config pages from my browser.

I soon got a shout up the stairs from my wife saying "the internets not working!".

Am I able to familiarise myself with the interface and configure some settings without using my ISP's router in bridge mode so the rest of the family can still use the current network configuration?

Can I connect a lead from my ISP routers WAN port and connect it to my firewall device and still access OPNsense when my ISP's router is not in bridge mode?

EDIT: also, if this is possible, how much configuration can I do like this ?

Many Thanks
P195

[cookiemonster]

Of course you can but it'll be trickier to configure this way if you are new to networking.
What to remember is that the setup routines identify WAN and LAN and setup routes, firewall rules and other bits for you. When you put it behind another router, then all these settings being correct fall on you.

[P195]

Ok thank you.

Looks like I may be having some late nights for the next few days / weeks then! I'll start work after the wife goes to bed  ;)

[P195]

While I'm here, do you have any tips on what to read / watch / research to get me up and running as fast as possible as an average home OPNsense user (generally unfamiliar with networking terms and practices etc)?

Many Thanks!
P195

[Patrick M. Hausen]

How about this book?

[lilsense]

you can also check out home network guy...

https://www.youtube.com/@homenetworkguy/videos

[P195]

Thanks for the recommendations  ;)