ferm

Ferm

ferm is a command line firewall manager tool for iptables. It allows users to easily configure iptables firewall rules using simple configuration files instead of complex iptables commands. It helps manage complex firewall policies in a simplified and automated way.
ferm image
firewall iptables network-security

Ferm: Command Line Firewall Manager for IPTABLES

A command line firewall manager tool for iptables, simplifying complex firewall policies with easy configuration files

What is Ferm?

ferm is an open source firewall manager tool that helps to easily configure iptables firewall rules on Linux systems. It uses simple and readable configuration files to generate the underlying complex iptables rules and allows for easy management of even complex firewall policies.

Some key features of ferm include:

  • Configuration files use simple syntax which is easy to understand
  • Supports rule sets for different types of connections (iptables chains)
  • Automatic rule insertion for related traffic in both directions
  • Variables, templates and includes for reusable configurations
  • Dry run capability to test rules before applying
  • Ideal for servers, routers, containers/VMs or workstations
  • Active development and community support

Instead of building a script with multiple iptables commands, ferm allows you to describe the firewall policy in a structured config file. Ferm then handles generating, organizing and loading the actual iptables rules. This makes management much simpler compared to raw iptables while still providing flexibility. Ferm is considered one of the best firewall managers for iptables.

Ferm Features

Features

  1. Configuration using simple configuration files instead of iptables commands
  2. Automated firewall rule management
  3. Support for IPv4 and IPv6
  4. Rulesets to organize firewall policies
  5. Variables for reuse and simplification
  6. Built-in templates for common configurations
  7. Dry-run mode to test rules before applying
  8. Import/export rules to share configurations

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Simplifies iptables firewall configuration

Powerful automation capabilities

Good for managing complex firewall policies

Active development and maintenance

Cons

Less flexibility compared to raw iptables

Steeper learning curve than basic iptables

Requires some knowledge of iptables concepts

Limited debugging capabilities


The Best Ferm Alternatives

Top Network & Admin and Firewall and other similar apps like Ferm


Iptablesbuild icon

Iptablesbuild

iptablesbuild is an open-source firewall utility designed to simplify the process of creating iptables firewall rules and configurations. It features an easy-to-use interface that allows users to generate complete iptables rulesets without needing extensive knowledge of iptables syntax.With iptablesbuild, users can create rules by selecting from predefined options and templates...
Iptablesbuild image
ConfigServer Firewall icon

ConfigServer Firewall

ConfigServer Firewall is a comprehensive network security application designed to protect computers and networks from unauthorized access and malicious threats. It works by monitoring and controlling all incoming and outgoing network traffic using a predefined set of security rules.As a software-based firewall solution, ConfigServer Firewall installs directly onto Windows or...
ConfigServer Firewall image
Shorewall icon

Shorewall

Shorewall is an open source firewall tool for Linux systems that provides an easy way to configure Netfilter firewall rules and setup. It allows administrators to generate firewall configurations through a set of easy-to-understand configuration files and command-line tools rather than having to write complex iptables commands directly.Some key features...
Shorewall image
Advanced Policy Firewall icon

Advanced Policy Firewall

Advanced Policy Firewall is a comprehensive network security solution designed to protect organizations against incoming threats and regulate outbound traffic. It goes beyond traditional stateful inspection by enabling administrators to create and enforce adaptive access rules, policies, and controls.Key features include:Customizable firewall rules based on IP address, port, protocol, application,...
Advanced Policy Firewall image
Dome9 Ubuntu Firewall Management icon

Dome9 Ubuntu Firewall Management

Dome9 Ubuntu Firewall Management is an open-source firewall manager tool designed specifically for Ubuntu Linux servers. It provides a web-based interface that allows administrators to easily configure, manage, and monitor iptables firewall rules on Ubuntu hosts.Key features include:Intuitive dashboard showing status of all configured firewall rulesPre-defined firewall rulesets for common...
Dome9 Ubuntu Firewall Management image