Access OPNsense instance

Accessing your OPNsense instance involves several steps to ensure secure and proper connectivity.

Step 1: Initial Setup via Console

After deploying the OPNsense instance, begin by configuring its basic settings. If you’re working with a physical device, connect directly to the console using a monitor and keyboard.

For PCH-hosted instances, which are cloud-based, access the console through your instance-assigned IP, For Example, a web console or SSH. Configure the network interfaces and assign the WAN and LAN IP addresses.

The default LAN IP address is usually 192.168.1.1, but in our case, it would be a public IP. If required, update these settings to fit your network environment.

Step 2: Accessing the OPNsense Web Interface

Once the basic setup is complete, you can manage the instance through the OPNsense web interface.

Open a web browser on a device connected to the LAN network. Enter the LAN IP address of the OPNsense instance in the browser’s address bar.

For example :

https://PUBLIC-IP-INST:4443

Use HTTPS for secure communication.

opnsense login

Log in with the default credentials: Shared with you.

Username: root
Password: **********


opnsense firmware

Step 3: Configuring Remote Access (Optional)

If you need to manage OPNsense remotely, additional configuration is required:

  • VPN Configuration: Set up a VPN on the OPNsense instance to ensure secure remote access to the internal or behind the OPNsense network…

  • Firewall Rules: Modify the firewall to allow secure access from specific IP addresses or over VPN.

  • Public IP Access: If using a public IP address, ensure strong security settings are applied, such as enabling HTTPS, restricting access to specific ports, and implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Step 4: Regular Management

Once access is configured, use the web interface for ongoing management.

From here, you can
  • Monitor traffic and logs.

  • Configure firewall rules, VPN settings, and network policies.

  • Update the system and install plugins.

Tip

Change Default Credentials: Always replace default usernames and passwords with strong, unique credentials.

opnsense password
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security for accessing the OPNsense web interface.

  • Restrict IP Access: Use firewall rules to limit access to trusted IP addresses.

  • Keep the System Updated: Regularly update OPNsense to patch security vulnerabilities.

opnsense firmware update