Fortinet FortiGate SWG Reviews

Name: Fortinet FortiGate SWG
Brand: Fortinet
Rating: 4.3 (43 reviews)

4.3 out of 5

43 reviews
100% willing to recommend

What is Fortinet FortiGate SWG?

Fortinet FortiGate SWG is a comprehensive web security solution provided by Fortinet. FortiGate SWG combines web filtering, malware protection, data loss prevention (DLP), and application control capabilities into a single integrated platform. It is designed to protect organizations from web-based threats, enforce compliance policies, and provide secure access to web resources.

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Fortinet FortiGate SWG is the #3 ranked solution in top Web Security Gateways. PeerSpot users give Fortinet FortiGate SWG an average rating of 8.6 out of 10. Fortinet FortiGate SWG is most commonly compared to Cisco Umbrella: Fortinet FortiGate SWG vs Cisco Umbrella. Fortinet FortiGate SWG 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 15% of all views.

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiGate SWG

June 2025

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Featured Fortinet FortiGate SWG reviews

Ayman Said

Infrastructure System's Manager at ICAPP (Americana Group)

We are using Fortinet FortiGate SWG for web filtering, application control, and IDPS. Additionally, we utilize it for VPN and the main features of a firewall Web filtering is very good, as well as IDPS. SD-WAN is a perfect feature. Additionally, the VPN is stable and very good. These features…

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RohitKumar

Manager Of Information Technology at Jubilant Foodworks

If any issues arise, we have to log a ticket with Fortinet. By default, they log all the tickets in P3 or P4 priorities. For P1 or P2, they ask to call us on their phone numbers and lines. Whenever we try to call on the phone for any P1 or P2 issues, the next time, the number gets busy, or the email is unavailable. That's why I feel the support is not up to the mark, and they must work on it.

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Gaurav Amar

Deputy Vice present at PVR Ltd

The network load balancing is one of the best features of Fortinet FortiGate SWG. Fortinet FortiGate SWG's SD-WAN compatibility with any of the providers is also one of its good features. The security devices work well with the solution, and it works well for anything pertaining to security, including the HTML files and VPN, which is beneficial for our company.

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Fortinet FortiGate SWG mindshare

As of June 2025, the mindshare of Fortinet FortiGate SWG in the Secure Web Gateways (SWG) category stands at 6.3%, down from 7.1% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Secure Web Gateways (SWG)

PeerResearch reports based on Fortinet FortiGate SWG reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Secure Web Gateways (SWG)	Jun 15, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Jun 15, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate SWG vs Cisco Umbrella	Jun 15, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate SWG vs Zscaler Internet Access	Jun 15, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate SWG vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks	Jun 15, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Cisco Umbrella	4.4	17.8%	97%	121 interviews Add to research
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks	4.2	11.0%	92%	63 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Fortinet FortiGate SWG offers uniform functionality across various models, simplifying configurations. Its user-friendly interface, strong security, and reliable performance stand out. Valuable features include SD-WAN, VPN, web filtering, and application control. FortiGate excels in ease of use, scalability, and centralized management. Users appreciate its robust security, including IPS and content filtering, efficient policy management, and seamless integration. It provides a good user experience with reliable inspection and network load balancing.

"These features have proven effective in protecting our network, handling large volumes of traffic smoothly without any issues."
"I rate this solution a nine out of ten."
"The solution is easy to use and checks the access control as a firewall."

Room for Improvement

Fortinet FortiGate SWG needs cloud-based features and more responsive technical support. Installation and integration require simplification. Reporting, log management, and GUI are lacking. Users seek improved pricing and stability. It needs enhanced monitoring and redundancy features. There are challenges with firmware upgrades, licensing, and SD-WAN integration. API accessibility and advanced security features are desired. The interface complexity after updates is noted, while localization for data privacy compliance is necessary.

"From a pricing perspective, I would rate them a six."
"I would rate the technical support of Fortinet a six or seven out of ten. It is not very helpful. I would like to see improvements in their support."
"Fortinet FortiGate SWG can't be used on its own, and you have to get FortiAnalyzer."

ROI

Several users report a positive ROI from Fortinet FortiGate SWG, especially for those opting for the cloud-based version and using it for over a year. Improved site connectivity and integration have reduced isolation issues. Fortinet is recognized for valuable features despite a higher price compared to competitors. Many have noted efficient traffic management and multiple usable features that enhance performance. Financial benefits are generally acknowledged, although some highlight the need for more usage time to evaluate cost savings fully.

Pricing

Enterprise buyers report that Fortinet FortiGate SWG's pricing is generally higher than alternatives like Cisco and Palo Alto but offers competitive value for its features. Pricing ranges widely, with yearly licensing fees starting at about $4,000. While some consider it cost-effective, others find the costs significant, particularly for additional features or redundancy. It's considered suitable for large enterprises due to its feature-based licensing, with ratings for affordability ranging from moderate to high.

"The cost has increased since the update so I would rate it eight out of ten."
"FortiGate SWG is a cost-effective solution well-suited for organisations of all sizes."
"While slightly more affordable than competitors, it remains relatively expensive due to its inclusive subscription."

Popular Use Cases

Users employ Fortinet FortiGate SWG for network protection, securing connections, web filtering, firewall functions, and VPN services. It is used to protect public safety networks, manage internal and DMZ traffic, and secure applications. It serves as a security boundary between networks, providing antivirus, application control, and threat detection. Deployments include cloud and on-premises setups, often used by enterprises to manage user access, secure data, and enhance cybersecurity measures.

Service and Support

Fortinet FortiGate SWG customer support varies. Some rate it high, citing fast, helpful responses and skilled technicians. Others report challenges such as slow responses or difficulties reaching the right personnel, especially during urgent issues. Many find regional support valuable, while partners often handle issues quicker. Documentation is praised, though inefficiencies exist in tier-one processes. Satisfaction levels vary, with some rating support as excellent and others finding room for improvement.

Deployment

Users find Fortinet FortiGate SWG's initial setup generally straightforward. Some mention a need for detailed configuration, while others highlight its simplicity if familiar with firewalls. Time required varies widely, from under an hour to several days, influenced by organization size and specific configurations. Many rate the setup positively, emphasizing ease of installation and available documentation. Deployment complications can occur during migrations, but most teams manage successfully with adequate resources.

Scalability

Users find Fortinet FortiGate SWG highly scalable, with capabilities appreciated by both small and large enterprises. Organizations rate its scalability between seven and ten, indicating strong performance across various environments including cloud deployments. Some suggest it effectively meets evolving demands and integrates well with different products. While some report a need for stronger routing options, others recognize its flexibility and suitability for expanding businesses. Fortinet FortiGate SWG is widely adopted, scaling from small setups to vast installations.

Stability

Fortinet FortiGate SWG is consistently described as stable, reliable, and capable of handling traffic smoothly. Numerous users highlight its strong performance, absence of crashes, and minimal downtime. Despite some remarks about occasional bugs in new releases and power outage-related issues, most rate its stability highly, commonly between eight to ten out of ten. The solution's stability has satisfied many customers, who appreciate its robust functionality and effective integrated prevention services.

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

Download our Fortinet FortiGate SWG 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

15%

Comms Service Provider

Government

Financial Services Firm

Manufacturing Company

Educational Organization

University

Legal Firm

Construction Company

Real Estate/Law Firm

Non Profit

Healthcare Company

Retailer

Hospitality Company

Insurance Company

Media Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Performing Arts

Outsourcing Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Transportation Company

Logistics Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Local Government

Marketing Services Firm

Non Tech Company

Mining And Metals Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Compare Fortinet FortiGate SWG with alternative products

Learn more about Fortinet FortiGate SWG

FortiGate SWG Benefits:

Comprehensive web filtering and security features
Ease of use and management
Integration with other Fortinet products
Strong threat detection capabilities
Scalability and flexibility
Granular control over user access and activity

FortiGate SWG Features:

Web Filtering: FortiGate SWG employs URL filtering and content categorization to control and enforce web access policies.
Malware Protection: The solution provides real-time protection against web-borne threats, such as malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
Data Loss Prevention (DLP): FortiGate SWG helps prevent sensitive data from being leaked or exfiltrated through web channels.
SSL Inspection: The solution supports SSL/TLS decryption and inspection, allowing organizations to examine encrypted web traffic for threats and enforce security policies.
Application Control: FortiGate SWG enables granular control over web applications and protocols.
Advanced Threat Intelligence: FortiGate SWG leverages Fortinet's threat intelligence services to provide up-to-date information about emerging threats and zero-day vulnerabilities.
User Authentication and Access Control: The solution supports various authentication methods, including single sign-on (SSO) and integration with identity providers, to ensure secure user authentication and access control for web resources.
Reporting and Analytics: FortiGate SWG provides comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities.

FortiGate SWG is typically deployed as a hardware appliance or as a virtual appliance in on-premises environments, but it may also be available as a cloud-based service. It is part of Fortinet's broader security fabric ecosystem, allowing integration with other Fortinet products to provide a unified and coordinated security infrastructure.

Reviews from Real Users

Below are some reviews and helpful feedback written by FortiGate SWG users.

David Carlson, CIO at Camco Mfg., says that "Non-IT people could plug it in, connect it to the fiber, and get it running without IT help".

Suresh Vijayen, Product Manager at IX Telecom, writes that FortiGate SWG "Provides helpful technical support, but its dashboard needs to be more user-friendly".

Chandan Munshi, Chief Technical Officer at Provision Technologies LLP, states that "The user interface is intuitive. Anyone can configure the firewall with little knowledge of the product. The back-end is robust with good security."

Fortinet FortiGate SWG was previously known as FortiGate SWG, FortiGate Secure Web Gateway.