How to Install Firewalla Red/Blue/Blue Plus

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

How to Install Firewalla Red/Blue/Blue Plus

2. Resolution

STEP 1: Download and install Firewalla App

STEP 2: Wire up the box

Connect Firewalla box to the main router of your network using the Ethernet cable provided in the package.  Then, connect the device to a power source using the Micro-USB cable provided in the package.

You can also connect Firewalla Box to any power source that has 2A current. Once the device is powered, the light next to the  Ethernet cable will start blinking. 

Here are some common scenarios to show you where Firewalla box should connect to.  If your network is more complex and need help, please send us an email: help@firewalla.com, describe your network topology, we will help you out.

Case A:  ISP Provided Modem / Router 

If you are using the modem/router combo provided by your ISP,  you just need to plug Firewalla box into one of the LAN ports of the modem/router.  

Case B:  Multiple Routers 

In addition to the modem/router combo provided by ISP, you have purchased another router and use that to connect all your household devices.  In such a case, plug the Firewalla box into one of the LAN ports of the router that you purchased.  Make sure the mobile phone which will launch Firewalla App is connected to the WIFI network provided by the same router that the Firewalla box is plugged in.  

Case C:  Wireless Mesh Network

If you own a mesh network, make sure to connect Firewalla to the primary device (not the satellite device).  After installation, please disable monitoring of the satellite devices in the Firewalla app after app installation.  You will find more Mesh Router Guide here.  

Case D:  Access Point (AP) / Switch

In addition to the modem/router combo provided by ISP,  you have installed a wifi access point (AP) or a switch (not a router) to connect your household devices. In such a case, plug the Firewalla box into either one of the LAN ports of the AP/Switch or the LAN port on the modem/router combo.

STEP 3: Pairing Firewalla App with the box

Please make sure the following:

• In case you have multiple networks (case B above), your phone needs to connect to the same router that your Firewalla box is plugged in.
• VPN is disabled on your Phone.
• It may take up to 5 mins for Firewalla Box to completely boot and upgrade process when powered on. Please be patient.
• For compatibility and workarounds please see Router Compatibility Guide.  If you have questions, please email us help@firewalla.com

Launch Firewalla App.  If Firewalla Box is ready to be paired, you shall see either '+' or 'New Firewalla' icon, or see both icons. 

If the Box can not be found by Firewalla App, please consult Firewalla Installation Troubleshooting. 

Tap on either '+' or 'New Firewalla' icon, and follow the instruction on installation wizard. When asked to scan QR code, it is the sticker located at thebottom of the little box. Once it is done,theBox will be able to communicate with the App.

STEP 4: Initial Setup of the box

After the pairing, a setup dialog will appear on the installation wizard. Tap “Continue”, it will automatically set up the device by learning your network. The entire process may take several more minutes. Once it is done, the Box is ready to work.

Explore Firewalla:   Getting Started With Your Firewalla, 

• If during the setup process, the device finds your main router is not compatible with Simple Mode, it will advise you to use DHCP Mode instead. 
• If you want to know what is Simple Mode and DHCP Mode before deciding which mode to choose, check out this page. 
• You can also double-check the router compatibility list to help you decide.
• If you are sure your router is compatible with Simple Mode, feel free to tap the retry when you see the test failure message.
• If you decide to use DHCP mode, some manual configuration on your router is required.  Please follow this guide.
• If you are using mesh routers, make sure you disable monitoring on all the satellites.  
• If you are using a mesh router and having problems, please consult this guide: Notes on the meshed router
• If you have wifi network extenders please also disable monitoring on them after installation.  

 Post Installation Problems:

Most routers will work with either Firewalla's Simple (plug and play) mode or the DHCP mode.  Some routers may experience issues such as devices being blocked or slow down in internet speed.  The fix is usually switching to a different monitoring mode or a configuration fix.  

• For compatibility and workarounds please see Router Compatibility Guide.
• If you encounter any issues, please send an email to help@firewalla.com, our engineers will help you directly.