Fortinet FortiWLM and Aruba Instant compete in the network management and security solutions category. Fortinet has an edge with its robust security architecture and single-pane visibility, while Aruba offers simpler deployment and cloud integration.
Features: Fortinet FortiWLM provides a unified management system, seamless roaming through Virtual Cell technology, and integration with the Security Fabric for comprehensive security. Aruba Instant offers cloud capabilities, easy setup with automatic configurations, and versatile deployment options without mandatory licensing fees.
Room for Improvement: Fortinet FortiWLM could enhance centralized management and reporting features and streamline the use of additional tools like FortiAnalyzer. Aruba Instant lacks extensive troubleshooting tools and better documentation, with room for improvements in compatibility with IoT devices and integration options.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Fortinet FortiWLM is noted for its on-premises setup and thorough technical support, with potential improvements needed in response times. Aruba Instant is favored for its scalable on-premises and cloud deployment options, though its customer service could benefit from faster and more personalized support.
Pricing and ROI: Fortinet FortiWLM generally offers a good ROI with competitive pricing and reduced long-term costs, despite the possible drawback of RMA shipping costs. Aruba Instant, though pricier, provides flexible pricing models and strong value without mandatory licensing fees, appealing to budget-conscious users.
Overall, it's a fair pricing and good in terms of cost-effectiveness or ROI.
I rate Aruba TAC as a 9 out of 10.
The technical support from Aruba is of high quality, and I would rate it a ten.
Fortinet provides excellent customer support.
The local support we receive from our distributor is perfect.
If we encounter any bugs, they inform us of the recommended configuration and firmware to resolve our problems.
I find Aruba Instant to be highly scalable.
Now, with any simple FortiGate 60F or newer model, you can manage more than 64 access points.
Fortinet's solutions are integrated into many standard frameworks, allowing for good scalability and interaction with other vendors' products.
Aruba is a known name in the market providing sufficient support for all these products.
This is a stable solution.
Some features are not listed in the cloud management platform and still require offline access, so enhancing the cloud management features would be better for us.
An important missing feature is the console port, which allows direct management without the cloud.
A mobile application to manage the Wi-Fi or the whole network would be beneficial.
Firmware upgrades and bug improvements need to be tested well.
Regarding the integration with other vendors, we try to buy only products from a single vendor to avoid problems of compatibility from devices of different vendors.
We do not sell very expensive devices as we move to other products.
However, when compared to entry-level market segments, the price is higher.
Fortinet's pricing is different from Aruba, as Aruba has solutions for small business and enterprise in different categories.
While the pricing of Fortinet FortiWLM is a bit high, it remains effective.
The price is competitive.
I highly value Aruba Instant for its ClearPass feature, which is an exceptional product for network access control and works as a NAC solution.
Aruba Instant's intrusion detection feature stands for application visibility and includes their latest technology such as Wi-Fi 6E and remote monitoring capability.
The most beneficial features for network management are the price and the cloud console.
Fortinet FortiWLM is recognized easily, and it is easy to recognize for any device to add to the network.
The solution is controlled from one device and one GUI for all devices.
The most useful aspect of Fortinet FortiWLM is that you can manage all the Fortinet products from one portal, from one device.
| Product | Mindshare (%) |
|---|---|
| Fortinet FortiWLM | 3.3% |
| Aruba Instant | 2.5% |
| Other | 94.2% |
| Company Size | Count |
|---|---|
| Small Business | 31 |
| Midsize Enterprise | 7 |
| Large Enterprise | 14 |
| Company Size | Count |
|---|---|
| Small Business | 18 |
| Midsize Enterprise | 5 |
| Large Enterprise | 5 |
Aruba Instant offers efficient and secure WLAN access for small to medium-sized businesses, featuring simple setup and management for environments like offices and schools.
Aruba Instant stands out with a focus on easy installation and robust network management. Its features include cloud management, application visibility, seamless roaming, and strong security measures, making it a suitable choice for small to medium-sized businesses. Developers appreciate its role-based access and ability to manage multiple access points efficiently. With Bluetooth connectivity, virtual controller functionality, and ClearPass integration, it adapts well to different business requirements. However, enhancements in troubleshooting, documentation, connectivity, and security features would benefit users. Its role in providing WLAN access across various access points is invaluable for entities like cafes and schools.
What are the key features of Aruba Instant?Aruba Instant is a favored choice in industries like hospitality, education, and office environments, due to its adaptability and ease of management. Its ability to provide seamless connectivity and secure access makes it ideal for businesses scaling their network infrastructure, ensuring efficient management and reliable WLAN access.
Fortinet FortiWLM delivers a secure, scalable network management platform that integrates seamlessly with FortiGate, providing centralized control and robust features such as guest network creation and V2R cell services.
Fortinet FortiWLM offers a comprehensive wireless network management solution with centralized oversight. Its architecture supports seamless FortiGate integration, enhancing security and management. Users benefit from creating guest networks without VLANs and managing network exposure through V2R cell services. The platform's centralized management ensures scalability and reliability across diverse deployments. Despite its strong performance, users seek quicker technology updates and easier configuration. Enhancements in design, marketing, and integrations with smaller companies are suggested. Improved documentation, pricing models, and support response would further enhance its appeal.
What are Fortinet FortiWLM's most valuable features?Companies implement Fortinet FortiWLM across sectors like telecom, healthcare, education, and hospitality for wireless network management. It supports secure LAN solutions, guest integrations, and advanced WiFi, appealing for its high performance and scalability. Environments such as offices, medical facilities, and residential areas benefit from its network segmentation and internet access efficiency.
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