Q
What is the Fortinet FortiGate NGFW Entry-Level Series?
A
The FortiGate NGFW Entry-Level Series is a family of compact next-generation firewalls designed to deliver enterprise-grade security, integrated threat protection, and high performance for small offices and branch locations.
Q
Which models are included in the FortiGate NGFW Entry-Level Series?
A
The entry-level series includes the FortiGate 40F, 60F, and 80F models, each offering varying throughput and port densities to match diverse branch and small-business requirements.
Q
What security features are offered by the entry-level FortiGate NGFW?
A
Key features include ASIC-accelerated firewalling, IPS, SSL inspection, application control, antivirus, web filtering, and integrated sandboxing via FortiSandbox for advanced threat detection.
Q
What are the performance specifications of these FortiGate models?
A
Performance ranges from up to 5 Gbps firewall throughput on the 40F to 20 Gbps on the 80F, with SSL inspection capabilities up to 700 Mbps and IPS throughput up to 1.5 Gbps, depending on model.
Q
How does FortiGate Entry-Level Series simplify deployment?
A
Each unit supports zero-touch provisioning and a web-based GUI, while integration with FortiManager and FortiCloud enables centralized configuration and rapid roll-out across multiple sites.
Q
What management options are available for these firewalls?
A
Administrators can manage devices locally via FortiOS GUI or CLI, centrally through FortiManager, or via the cloud-hosted FortiCloud platform for policy orchestration and analytics.
Q
How is licensing structured for the FortiGate Entry-Level Series?
A
Licensing is subscription-based, with bundled FortiCare support and FortiGuard security services—customers can choose UTM packages or individual services such as IPS, AV, web filtering, and sandboxing.
Q
What total cost of ownership can customers expect?
A
The entry-level series delivers a low TCO through integrated hardware and security services, consolidated subscriptions, and reduced operational overhead via automated updates and simplified management.
Q
How does FortiGate integrate with FortiGuard security services?
A
FortiGate NGFWs use FortiGuard Labs threat intelligence feeds for real-time updates on malware, vulnerabilities, and web threats, ensuring continuous policy enforcement and proactive protection.
Q
Can the entry-level FortiGate run virtual instances?
A
No, the entry-level series is designed as physical appliances; for virtual deployments, customers should consider the FortiGate VM series tailored for private and public cloud environments.
Q
Is the Entry-Level Series compatible with public cloud environments?
A
While physical units are not cloud-deployed, they integrate seamlessly with cloud-based management via FortiCloud and can secure hybrid WAN links to AWS, Azure, and other cloud platforms.
Q
How scalable are these entry-level firewalls?
A
They scale easily for small to mid-sized deployments by clustering multiple units in high-availability or SD-WAN topologies, supporting up to 20 active nodes for branch connectivity.
Q
What high-availability options are supported?
A
The series supports active-active and active-passive HA modes with session synchronization, automated failover, and FortiLink port redundancy for uninterrupted security services.
Q
What size of business is best suited for FortiGate Entry-Level Series?
A
These models are ideal for SMBs, retail outlets, satellite offices, and small branches requiring enterprise-grade protection without the complexity or cost of higher-end firewalls.
Q
What support and firmware update options are included?
A
Each device ships with a FortiCare subscription providing 24x7 technical support, firmware updates, and access to FortiGuard services, ensuring continuous protection and compliance.
Q
How can customers purchase and set up a FortiGate Entry-Level unit?
A
Customers can order through authorized Fortinet partners or the Fortinet online store, then follow the intuitive quick-start guide for rack or desktop installation and initial configuration via the GUI.