FortiGate is one of the many apps available through the wider Fortinet security suite. The platform functions as a UTM device, consolidating multiple security features into a single platform. This includes firewall, antivirus, intrusion prevention, web filtering, and more.

In the following post, we’ll walk you through the key elements of this application, its use cases, and what it’s like to configure.

FortiGate as Firewall

Firewalls often serve as the primary defense against security threats. However, with the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals, relying solely on a firewall makes it increasingly difficult to thwart the diverse range of cybersecurity threats, often concealed behind seemingly trustworthy sources and encrypted layers.

Fortunately, FortiGate, the only NGFW with unified management for hybrid mesh firewalls, offers capabilities beyond traditional firewalls. While traditional firewalls focus on stateful inspection, a next-generation firewall like FortiGate adds features such as application awareness, control, integrated intrusion prevention, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence - ultimately voiding many of the concerns presented by more traditional applications

What’s it like to Configure with FortiGate?

Fortinet's FortiGate stands out as a Next Generation Firewall (NGFW), delivering cutting-edge security for our network. It encompasses the complete Unified Threat Protection (UTP) Suite for our company, incorporating robust network protection services like IPS, Anti-Malware, Antivirus, Flood Detection, BotNet Detection, Web Filters, and various other security features. 

FortiGate also serves as a robust initial defense line for our network, featuring proactive alerting and intrusion prevention capabilities. More so, when combined with FortiClient, it offers flexible and secure VPN services for our remote workers. The Site-to-Site VPN function serves as a potent, continuous VPN solution for larger sites requiring WAN Connectivity. 

Ultimately, FortiGate boasts a highly intuitive interface, enabling our team to effortlessly configure and leverage its powerful firewall features.

Pros:

• Powerful and reliable SD-WAN Services
• Unified Threat Protection with robust features like IPS, Anti-Virus, Anti-Malware, Anti-Spam
• Powerful IPS Services with industry validation
• Reliable Publishing Services for secure remote access to internal services
• Excellent Remote Access Services through IPSEC and SSL VPN Tunnel technologies
• Simple and intuitive user interface, well-designed and easy to follow

Cons:

• Logging Services could be improved to include more details
• 10 Gigabit Interfaces should be available for lower models as well
• Installation of FortiAP services could be simpler

Deployment and Why FortiGate Matters?

The application can be deployed on-premises or as a Virtual Machine in a variety of modules. The granularity of the product enables buyers to tailor their purchase to their business needs. FortiGate integrates into multi-vendor environments, including IaaS cloud platforms and public cloud environments.

This integration aims to simplify network management and provide cost-effective solutions.

Securing Network Perimeters

One of the primary use cases of FortiGate is securing network perimeters. The firewall capabilities of FortiGate act as a robust defense mechanism, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent unauthorized access.

VPN Connectivity

FortiGate excels in providing secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) connectivity. This use case is vital for organizations with remote workers or multiple branch offices, ensuring encrypted communication channels for sensitive data transfer.

Web Filtering and Content Control

For organizations aiming to regulate internet usage and ensure a productive online environment, FortiGate's web filtering and content control features come to the forefront. This use case allows administrators to define and enforce internet access policies.

Conclusion

In the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity, Fortinet’s FortiGate emerges as a versatile and robust solution. From securing network perimeters to ensuring secure cloud connectivity, FortiGate's general use cases cover a wide spectrum of security needs. Organizations looking for a comprehensive security platform can find a reliable ally in FortiGate.

Considering building an integration with FortiSIEM or any other product within Fortinet? Metron is a Fortinet Technical Alliance partner and has experience building scalable integration with Fortinet’s products.

If you are considering any custom cybersecurity solution that focuses on the resources and needs of your organization, please send a note to connect@metronlabs.com.