Fortinet FortiAuthenticator Reviews

Name: Fortinet FortiAuthenticator
Brand: Fortinet
Rating: 4.0 (60 reviews)

Vendor: Fortinet

4.0 out of 5

60 reviews
87% willing to recommend

435 followers

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What is Fortinet FortiAuthenticator?

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is the primary secure point of approved access into the Fortinet network, authorizing users, reviewing access permissions, and relaying the information to all Fortigate devices for comparison with identity-based protocols. Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is a top-ranked authorization and SSO solution.

Appropriate secure access is fundamental to every role in an enterprise ecosystem. It is an integral function of every organization to ensure that every access and privilege is secure and to mitigate any possible risk to an organization. Approved users should only have access to the necessary information when they need it, from the appropriate location(s) to safeguard an organization's security at all times.

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Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is the #1 ranked solution in top Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solutions, #3 ranked solution in top Authentication Systems, #6 ranked solution in top Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions, and #9 ranked solution in top Identity Management (IM) solutions. PeerSpot users give Fortinet FortiAuthenticator an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is most commonly compared to Microsoft Entra ID: Fortinet FortiAuthenticator vs Microsoft Entra ID. Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 49% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 16% of all views.

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator

June 2025

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Featured Fortinet FortiAuthenticator reviews

Yonas Abebe

Senior Network and Security Engineer at Symbol Technologies PLC

The integration capabilities of Fortinet FortiAuthenticator are very interesting, as it can be integrated with third-party devices easily and is straightforward to configure. The integration with FortiToken is outstanding, adding a layer of security for authentication. In addition, it can be used by integrating with zero trust single access, enhancing overall security measures.

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Rias Majeed

CTO at Exceed NetSec LLC

Customer service and support are helpful, but in the last few years, I've found that the first-level support isn't able to understand the issue. They escalate to the tier-two level, who are able to resolve it. On the first level, it takes time. Maybe they have grown too big and aren't able to give each network the unique attention it deserves. We customize some implementations, and at that time, they're not able to help because the people supporting are new and not from the field. The training seems fine, but in practice, it's different. Their support is not that great anymore. A little arrogance is there. It doesn't qualify them very well if there's arrogance in their communication. They do not understand the issue. That's why you're coming back to support. For example, one issue I'm facing is when a person leaves the organization without handing over details. They'll send an email to that person, but that person is not available. How are you going to access this email? These are a few instances where we are finding it difficult, and they take more than a week or two to resolve some issues. Their support used to be very good, but now that they're on top, they're not as responsive at the first-level support.

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MOHAN SUKUMAR

Head of computer systems at Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology(IIST)

We are using Fortinet FortiAuthenticator to implement token-based authentication for wireless network access. It is used for SSO, single sign-on, and as a captive portal. We primarily use it for token implementation for wireless network access There have been numerous support tickets sent to…

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Fortinet FortiAuthenticator mindshare

Product category:

As of June 2025, the mindshare of Fortinet FortiAuthenticator in the Single Sign-On (SSO) category stands at 7.3%, down from 7.8% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Single Sign-On (SSO)

PeerResearch reports based on Fortinet FortiAuthenticator reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Single Sign-On (SSO)	Jun 16, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Jun 16, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiAuthenticator vs Microsoft Entra ID	Jun 16, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiAuthenticator vs Cisco Duo	Jun 16, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiAuthenticator vs Okta Workforce Identity	Jun 16, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Microsoft Entra ID	4.3	26.6%	95%	234 interviews Add to research
SailPoint Identity Security Cloud	4.1	N/A	96%	71 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator's most valuable features include easy utilization of two-factor authentication with FortiToken, seamless integration with Fortinet products, an intuitive interface, and robust user management capabilities. It supports multiple credential sources and a centralized management system. Users appreciate its cost-effectiveness, performance, user-friendly GUI, and detailed logging capabilities. FortiAuthenticator enhances security with its versatile authentication options and simplifies regulatory compliance by centralizing user identity management across diverse environments.

"Customer service and support are excellent."
"We are using Fortinet FortiAuthenticator to implement token-based authentication for wireless network access."
"The technical support for FortiAuthenticator is excellent."

Room for Improvement

Issues mentioned include difficulties with the user interface, limited integration with other firewalls, and reliance on command-line configurations. Users desire more robust automation and simplified software patch implementation. The interface appears outdated and confusing, hindering ease of use. Concerns were raised about high availability setup and lack of comprehensive authentication protocols. Enhanced support for diverse operating systems, applications, and improved technical assistance were also highlighted as areas for potential improvement.

"Initially, we deployed Fortinet FortiAuthenticator on VMware and faced challenges when migrating to an OpenStack environment, which required reconfiguration. I recommend Fortinet make its images migratable between environments."
"There have been numerous support tickets sent to Fortinet since this does not appear to be a mature product."
"Up to now, I would not recommend FortiAuthenticator to others yet as I have ongoing transitions and evaluations."

ROI

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator provides financial returns in less than a year for some; others find it challenging to measure. Many appreciate enhanced security and compliance features, noting reduced costs by 50% due to two-factor authentication. Although some haven't observed financial benefits yet or find it less profitable than competitors, many highlight its essential role in preventing unauthorized access. Organizations report enhanced overall security costs, suggesting Fortinet FortiAuthenticator as a valuable security investment.

Pricing

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator pricing is generally affordable and competitive, especially compared to Cisco. Licensing is user-based and can be purchased yearly or for multi-year terms. Costs vary based on user count and model, with pack prices from $1,600 to $2,500 for around 100 users. Additional costs may arise for features like FortiToken. Yearly support fees are generally low, and users appreciate the lack of recurring fees, though some find it more expensive than alternatives like Cisco Duo.

"The platform is cost-effective as it does not require a separate license for SD-WAN functionality."
"The price seems okay. It's not that expensive compared to other authenticators."
"The platform provides a user-based pricing model rather than a subscription pricing model."

Popular Use Cases

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is primarily applied for two-factor authentication, particularly for VPN access and integrating with multiple Active Directory domains. Organizations utilize it for multi-factor security, including token management and SSL VPN authentication. It supports centralized management of user identity and integrates with various security architectures. Its use extends to roles like managing network devices and securing applications through IAM and SSO functionalities across industries.

Service and Support

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator offers responsive customer service and support with knowledgeable staff. Users find technical support effective, prompt, and helpful. Some report occasional delays in getting responses or resolving complex issues. While many rate the support highly, others observe that first-level staff may lack understanding, requiring escalation. Support is available in multiple languages, providing timely assistance. Lower-tier staff might sometimes struggle, but higher-level support is well-received. Active licenses improve access to services.

Deployment

Users' experiences with Fortinet FortiAuthenticator's initial setup vary. Some found it straightforward, especially with technical expertise and documentation support, making deployment quick. Others encountered challenges regarding LDAP, integration, and complex environments, needing external assistance or support. Those familiar with Fortinet’s ecosystem highlighted an easier process. Difficulty increased for configurations requiring specific network setups or deep integration. Generally, deployment time ranged from hours to weeks, depending on complexity and familiarity with the system.

Scalability

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator exhibits strong scalability, supporting both virtual and physical deployments and accommodating a range of user quantities. Users appreciate its flexibility in adding new licenses, allowing integration with expanding infrastructures. While the experience is generally positive, proper sizing and knowledgeable deployment are essential. Companies note challenges in user group settings during bulk uploads, but rate scalability highly, often 7-9 out of 10, highlighting adaptability for medium to large enterprises.

Stability

Most users find Fortinet FortiAuthenticator stable, with ratings often between eight and ten out of ten. However, some have experienced issues with the system under heavy user loads, or with specific unit failures. Some users encountered initial setup difficulties or minor syncing errors, but others appreciate its seamless operation and frequent updates. While many see it as reliable and effective, some mention occasional stability concerns, leading to mixed opinions on its overall reliability.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Fortinet FortiAuthenticator Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

16%

Comms Service Provider

Government

Financial Services Firm

Manufacturing Company

Educational Organization

Retailer

Construction Company

Healthcare Company

University

Hospitality Company

Non Profit

Insurance Company

Media Company

Real Estate/Law Firm

Energy/Utilities Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Outsourcing Company

Legal Firm

Performing Arts

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Transportation Company

Logistics Company

Consumer Goods Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Compare Fortinet FortiAuthenticator with alternative products

Learn more about Fortinet FortiAuthenticator

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator is available as an appliance, virtual machine, or in the cloud.

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator Methods

FSSO: FortiAuthenticator Single sign-on user will easily identify users and assign role or group access based on preset identity-based protocols. FortiAuthenticator integrates well with third-party LDAP or active directories, is very flexible, and combines these methods to provide effective security.
Active Directory Polling: Active directory access is securely identified by consistent polling of domain controllers. As users log in, username, IP address, and other details are logged into the database and can be shared across devices as directed by FortiAuthenticator protocols.
FortiAuthenticator Portal and Widgets: If a user system does not support AP polling, or for other reasons it is not feasible, FortiAuthenticator offers a unique secure authentication portal. Users can be manually authenticated and, to diminish the effect of numerous logins, an intuitive set of widgets is available to integrate into an organization's ecosystem that will automatically grant access to users when they access the organization's intranet homepage.
RADIUS Accounting Login: For organizations that use RADIUS authentication, RADIUS Accounting is available for user identification. This process will prompt user access information (IP and group, etc.) and eliminate the need for multiple levels of authentication.

Reviews from Real Users

Ernesto C., Presales Engineer at a comms service provider, shares,

”Key Features and Benefits

Two-factor/OTP Authentication with FortiToken: Enforce user-based policies. Fortitoken is available in soft and hard versions for flexible usage. Most Valuable in Mobile Phones App for OTP.
Integration with LDAP and AD: This solution integrates with existing enterprise systems and technologies from diverse vendors of user information management systems.
LPAD/AD/RADIUS/SYSLOG/KERBEROS/REST API/FSSO and Web Portals: There is flexible integration with these services.
It is usable in network, WAN, wireless, and VPN Scenarios.
The domain and guest-users support are good.”

Ibrahim M., Senior Network & Security Engineer at a tech services company, relates, "The initial setup is a valuable point on Fortinet products. Most of the time, putting the theory into practice on the devices is quite friendly and straightforward. As long as you can read English you can find your way around the solution and make it work. This is a high value point on Fortinet - the way everything is laid out in the web UI is user-friendly and quite straightforward. The UI is quite simple."

Fortinet FortiAuthenticator was previously known as FortiAuthenticator.