Once the order is complete, download the .iso.gz file (roughly 300 MB). Use a tool like 7-Zip to extract the raw .iso file. 3. System Requirements & Preparation

Do not simply copy the ISO file to a USB drive. You must write it as a bootable image.

pfSense offers several installation options, but the ISO remains the most flexible and widely used:

Before you begin the installation, ensure your hardware meets these minimum requirements: Minimum Hardware Requirements | pfSense Documentation

As of early 2026, the current stable version of pfSense Community Edition (CE) is . 1. Choosing the Right Download Image