[kwlug-disc] PFSense and USB 2.0 NICs

[B.S.]

On 07/09/2016 03:22 AM, Paul Nijjar via kwlug-disc wrote:
> On Fri, Jul 08, 2016 at 08:40:22PM -0400, Colin Mackay wrote:
>>
>> I have a 1.6Ghz dual core ATOM box sitting idle in the basement, from what
>> I've seen it'll be able to run pfsense without too much trouble.
...
> I would be interested if you find a USB3 adapter that works well in
> your setup.

This thread startles me as I have some USB 10/100 SMC nics that are my 
go to always works when internal nic drivers aren't on CD distro long 
enough to get to repositories to get such drivers. I get that that's for 
Linux, and the thread notes pfSense is FreeBSD, but it still startles.

I have always thought that for such gateway machines with only 1 
internal nic that a usb nic for the outside world connection would be 
fine - such aren't even 100 Mbps (in the home), so even a 10/100 USB 
would be fine for that. No? (Again, hadn't considered FreeBSD in that 
thinking.)

On that basis, is USB3 really bringing anything to the party? (It's not 
like you're going to bond USB nics.) Even if you have a better than 100 
connection, it's not likely to be Gbps ... will USB2 not keep up?

I've also found on an old laptop that placed in its dock both the 
internal and dock ethernets can be used, obviated the need for USB. 
FWIW. Doesn't help the OP, but could if one's circumstances were similar.