

A10 Networks Thunder ADC and Fortinet FortiADC are key players in the application delivery controller market. A10 Networks Thunder ADC holds an edge due to its all-inclusive licensing scheme, providing cost-effective solutions and operational efficiencies.
Features: A10 Networks Thunder ADC includes IPv6 support, advanced DDoS mitigation, and SSL offloading, offered under an all-inclusive license which simplifies budgeting. Additionally, Global Server Load Balancing enhances scalable site management. Fortinet FortiADC exhibits strengths in its robust SSL offloading and DNS load balancing, ensuring redundancy and flexibility across varied environments.
Room for Improvement: A10 Networks Thunder ADC can improve its graphical user interface usability and expand third-party integrations. Users note legal concerns and express a desire for enhanced mobile web acceleration and cloud integration. Fortinet FortiADC faces challenges with configuration complexity and infrequent updates. It lacks built-in advanced security features, often requiring additional purchases that affect cost efficiency.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Both A10 Networks Thunder ADC and Fortinet FortiADC primarily support on-premises deployment. A10 Networks is recognized for responsive technical support, but improvement in first-call resolution is desirable. Fortinet FortiADC offers a steady support experience, but could enhance cloud service integration for a smoother user experience. FortiADC stands out for its flexible deployment options suitable for private cloud environments.
Pricing and ROI: A10 Networks Thunder ADC is seen as more economical than rivals like F5, with bundled licensing minimizing additional costs. Its ROI is bolstered by ease of configuration and strong support services. Fortinet FortiADC offers competitive pricing, frequently noted as more affordable than other top-tier options, though a call for simpler licensing exists to increase value. Both products provide significant ROI through distinctive features and operational efficiency improvements.
We do see a return on investment and cost reductions after the implementation of A10 Networks Thunder ADC.
The alert system is efficient, sending alerts within a fraction of a second if any power issues arise.
Their tech support is very responsible, and their response time is very low, providing superb support.
The support we receive from the team is quite excellent.
The support team is knowledgeable and efficiently assists with automation and configuration problems.
It varies depending on the engineer assigned; in most cases, we resolve issues on the first attempt.
Fortinet technical support is very good, and they provide us with better support.
A10 Networks Thunder ADC's scalability is impressive.
A10 Networks Thunder ADC can handle growth easily, and I have scaled up during higher traffic periods.
For those opting for a SaaS or cloud solution, there is scalability and flexibility.
It is scalable for some versions, however, as components reach their end of support, upgrades are necessary to maintain scalability.
In some of our deployments of A10 Networks Thunder ADC, we have employed DDoS and other security features, and for the past few years, we haven't experienced any major incidents.
Most of the time, it just runs in the background without issues.
The support system is reliable when issues like automation or configuration arise.
Overall, it has been good; in the past it was very good, and now it is still performing well.
We have two applications in two ESXi hosts that I integrated into our ADC, and I created one virtual IP in the virtual server pool.
Having more structured, real-world configuration examples would make a big difference, especially for teams that are new to the platform, helping reduce the initial learning curve for them.
In the vThunder series of A10 Networks Thunder ADC, they have a perpetual license model and a subscription model, but in the Thunder series, the physical appliance does not have a perpetual license model, mainly operating on the subscription model.
Enhanced integration with third-party tools would be beneficial.
Fortinet has been a pioneer for enterprise solutions, such as firewalls, SASE, ZTNA, and SD-WAN solutions, and they are in a leader quadrant.
The limitation of managing all components and the differing versions pose challenges.
If I need design help, they do not assist; they say it is a design issue they cannot support, and I must approach the system integrator.
I estimate that I can save around 20 to 30 percent of my budget with A10 Networks Thunder ADC.
This solution is quite expensive compared to Kemp.
Application load balancing in A10 Networks Thunder ADC plays a crucial role in improving application reliability during peak periods.
What really stands out to me about A10 Networks Thunder ADC is how customizable, performant, and automated the platform is.
I would assess A10 Networks Thunder ADC's load balancing for improving application reliability during peak periods at around 9 out of 10, as GSLB is far better, and we are very satisfied with it.
I use server load balancing and employ layer seven features, which provide more granular traffic shaping and detailed logs.
When integrated with FortiAnalyzer, it has much more significance.
The implementation process is straightforward, and cluster implementation is also very easy.
| Product | Mindshare (%) |
|---|---|
| Fortinet FortiADC | 8.7% |
| A10 Networks Thunder ADC | 5.6% |
| Other | 85.7% |

| Company Size | Count |
|---|---|
| Small Business | 14 |
| Midsize Enterprise | 6 |
| Large Enterprise | 13 |
| Company Size | Count |
|---|---|
| Small Business | 13 |
| Midsize Enterprise | 4 |
| Large Enterprise | 7 |
A10 Networks Thunder ADC delivers efficient load balancing, SSL offloading, and enhanced security to ensure high application availability across cloud and on-premises environments. It optimizes performance and reduces costs while maintaining reliability during peak loads.
A10 Networks Thunder ADC supports enterprises in managing server load and ensuring secure, high-availability application delivery with features like DDoS protection and SSL offloading. Its cloud flexibility, operational efficiency, and advanced traffic management are key attributes, despite areas for improvement in user interface design, documentation examples, and third-party tool integration. Scalability, logging capacity, and automation for virtual appliances need attention, along with pricing adjustments for certain markets.
What are the most important features?In industries such as finance and healthcare, A10 Networks Thunder ADC enables secure, efficient management of server loads and application delivery. Enterprises use its features to protect data, facilitate remote work, and maintain performance amid traffic spikes by hosting applications centrally, ensuring continuous business operations.
Fortinet FortiADC offers reliable load balancing and server management with significant security features, ensuring streamlined traffic control. Its cost-effectiveness and integration with Fortinet platforms make it a compelling choice for businesses seeking scalability and enhanced network operations.
Fortinet FortiADC is designed to deliver streamlined application delivery and manage server traffic effectively. It integrates seamlessly with Fortinet technologies like FortiGate and FortiMail, enabling enhanced security features such as SSL offloading and certificate management. While its load balancing and traffic control are strong, improvements in algorithm precision and technical support are needed. The platform's licensing flexibility and high-level services like failover and redundancy underscore its scalability. However, revisions in configuration interfaces and performance optimizations indicate areas for future updates. A focus on automation and integration with existing FortiManager components could enhance usability.
What are the key features of Fortinet FortiADC?Industries implement Fortinet FortiADC to improve application and data access, especially where high reliability and secure delivery are critical. It supports local and global content management, efficiently handling disaster recovery and ISP link balancing tasks, crucial for sectors requiring continuous, high-performance connectivity.
We monitor all Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) reviews to prevent fraudulent reviews and keep review quality high. We do not post reviews by company employees or direct competitors. We validate each review for authenticity via cross-reference with LinkedIn, and personal follow-up with the reviewer when necessary.