Fortinet FortiGate Reviews

Name: Fortinet FortiGate
Brand: Fortinet
Rating: 4.2 (338 reviews)

Vendor: Fortinet

4.2 out of 5

338 reviews
90% willing to recommend

14K followers

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What is Fortinet FortiGate?

Fortinet FortiGate offers comprehensive network security and firewall protection across multiple locations. It effectively manages data traffic and secures environments with features like VPN, intrusion prevention, and UTM controls.

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Fortinet FortiGate is the #1 ranked solution in SD-WAN tools, #1 ranked solution in top WAN Edge solutions, and #2 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Fortinet FortiGate an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. Fortinet FortiGate is most commonly compared to Netgate pfSense: Fortinet FortiGate vs Netgate pfSense. Fortinet FortiGate is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 39% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a educational organization, accounting for 19% of all views.

Helped 852,764 peers since 2012

Featured Fortinet FortiGate reviews

EhabAli

Sr. Cybersecurity Solutions Architect at BMB

For our customers, Secure SD-WAN is very useful for giving the right priority to the applications and controlling the proper use of the application. Secure SD-WAN's interoperability with other systems and applications in the environment is very good. The integrated application protection provided by Secure SD-WAN is also good. There is a very good integration with all the applications and portfolios. We don't integrate the firewall with the application itself, but it does what is needed to control and reroute the traffic. Secure SD-WAN has a lot of benefits. There is a calculator on Fortinet's website. When you feed the right information to that calculator, it tells you how much money you will save by acquiring SD-WAN. The first benefit is that you're going to save money. Instead of buying multiple ISP connections, MPLS, and other such things, you can use the normal internet and apply SD-WAN on it, so you can save a lot of money. You also don't need to increase the bandwidth. SD-WAN helps with the routing of your traffic and the optimum use of your links. It's efficient and secure, and it saves you a lot of money, and of course, there is the security of the firewall that's applied on SD-WAN. If we're comparing it with other vendors like Cisco, you are not getting the firewall features. It's very efficient. There is a lot of visibility. It reduces the number of incidents. If there is any problem, you can immediately log in to the firewall, and you will know if there is a notification about bandwidth consumption or any other issue, or if there is any drop in connectivity. It makes the operation very easy. It makes it easy for the teams to respond to incidents and manage issues. SD-WAN helps to remediate threats more quickly and efficiently because, with SD-WAN, there are a lot of applications going through different links, so if you can know which link an application is using and what's on the link, you can make the right decision in a very fast way to fix it. It provides both visibility and efficiency. It reduces your mean time to detect (MTTD). In the new version, which is version 7.x, of the FortiGate firewall, through the main dashboard, you can know what is going on. If you've done the dashboard and you're putting these statistics in front of you on a screen, once you look at it, you'll know what's going on and what's the problem. It, of course, will give you the tools and the right information to reduce the time to solve. It's hard to say whether it has reduced help desk tickets because it's more on the operational side, but it helps them a lot. The operations team is not handling the firewall. It's either the network team or the network security team. Generally, once it's up and running, it just works. It's different from having an antivirus or something else that can be changed from day-to-day activities. With this one, once you turn it on, the service will be stable unless you have a problem with your internet. It doesn't cause a lot of problems. In terms of helping to future-proof business, from a partner perspective, it gives you a lot of flexibility to enhance the customer network. It opens a lot of doors for sales, for a new business, and for new potential. That's from the partner side. From the customer side, you can save money and solve a lot of problems. If you need to connect with a few branches all over the country, it's efficient. You don't need to travel for five to ten hours to reach the second branch. If you have proper SD-WAN technology and it's connected in a good way with good vendors, you can save a lot of time, effort, and money. You can have proper connectivity between branches as if the guy you are talking to is next door. So, SD-WAN gives a lot of benefits at the vendor level, partner level, and customer level.

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Saurabh-Pal

Sr. Security Specialist at a tech vendor with 11-50 employees

I rate Fortinet support eight out of 10. Sometimes, the Level 1 support can't fix the issue, so it needs to be escalated, and we can't get help until the next day. Otherwise, it's okay. Their frontline support can fix most basic issues, but we may need to wait a day or two for special problems.

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Jose Gisbert

Manager Network (IT/OT) at a consumer goods company with 5,001-10,000 employees

FortiGate offers us the capability to provide visibility into and segmentation of our industrial devices. We are currently implementing this for the LAN, and we are migrating firewalls to Fortinet FortiGate devices. In this process, we are separating the operational network from the IT network. Knowing that some of Fortinet's devices can be used in harsh environments that's nice to have. But that's something that is not needed right now just because we are only using them in very few places. These devices are specifically used to prevent intrusions in harsh environments. These devices help to control network traffic with OT-specific protocols. The LAN firewalls we have implemented are purchased with the functionality of network-specific modules to enable the management of network traffic with OT-specific protocols. The approved offerings help us achieve our budgetary goals. We are adapting the budget to align with the devices provided by Fortinet. We are doing this because we can utilize Fortinet. Therefore, all of our budgets should take this into account as well. The decision to utilize Fortinet stems from its ability to integrate with our preferred vendors. We have plans to implement both ClearPass and Nozomi as part of our OT cybersecurity strategy, both of which offer API-based interfaces for connecting to FortiGate devices. This interoperability is crucial for our organization. The combination of FortiGate and FortiManager provides a comprehensive overview of all the firewalls we manage. It is very convenient to have everything centralized in one place. FortiGate has helped reduce the risk of cyberattacks that could disrupt our production, which is one of our primary goals. We were not affected by any cybersecurity attacks that would have impacted our production operations. However, we have a comprehensive plan in place to address such incidents. FortiManager enables us to block essential protocols and implement security measures across all business units if we detect a security breach in one area. This centralized approach ensures that the security measures we implement are consistently applied throughout the organization. FortiGate has aided in centralizing the management of our network and security operations. The impact of this on the operational efficiency of our industrial network depends on how we organize it. Centralized management has significantly simplified management tasks. However, we require a dedicated team capable of addressing the diverse needs of different plants and business units, implementing necessary changes, and resolving any issues that arise. A single point of contact facilitates this process. In this regard, we have not only improved operational efficiency but also consolidated our management structure, reducing the need for multiple teams scattered across different countries. FortiGate provides us with actionable data that helps us make informed decisions about the appropriate actions to take. Additionally, we utilize FortiAnalyzer to analyze the type of traffic we are experiencing, potential issues, and other relevant information. Furthermore, we monitor CPU memory, bandwidth, and other metrics associated with various IP connections using Fortinet devices. This monitoring is conducted across multiple firewalls. By employing these tools, we can ensure that any changes we make are the correct ones and are made for the right reasons. The implementation of Fortinet's Security Fabric has significantly enhanced the security of our industrial control system. Previous solutions were unable to effectively manage the diverse protocols employed in this environment, resulting in operational and technological limitations. However, with the introduction of the new security fabric, we are now able to address these challenges and achieve a more robust security posture. The Fortinet Security Fabric helps us reduce our mean time to remediation. With all its tools and centralized management, it's much easier to identify and resolve issues, leading to improved overall security posture. Fortinet helped mature our approach to cybersecurity for protecting our industrial equipment.

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Fortinet FortiGate mindshare

Product category:

As of May 2025, the mindshare of Fortinet FortiGate in the Firewalls category stands at 21.4%, up from 17.7% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Firewalls

PeerResearch reports based on Fortinet FortiGate reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Firewalls	May 24, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	May 24, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate vs Netgate pfSense	May 24, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate vs OPNsense	May 24, 2025	Download
Comparison	Fortinet FortiGate vs Sophos XG	May 24, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Netgate pfSense	4.3	13.3%	93%	218 interviews Add to research
OPNsense	4.2	11.5%	97%	40 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Fortinet FortiGate's most valued features include a user-friendly interface, intuitive dashboards, and robust SSL and IPsec VPN capabilities. It excels in threat prevention with effective IPS, antivirus, and web filtering. SD-WAN and centralized management through FortiManager enhance flexibility. Users appreciate the comprehensive security suite, including application control and firewalling, along with seamless integration with FortiAnalyzer for reporting. Its reliable performance and scalability make it an attractive choice for diverse networking needs.

"Fortinet FortiGate is a very good next-generation firewall."
"The best features of Fortinet FortiGate are its simplicity, ease of installation, and ease of functionality."
"With Fortinet FortiGate, we improved security significantly."

Room for Improvement

Fortinet FortiGate could benefit from improved stability, enhanced user interface, and more efficient troubleshooting features. The integration and performance of some advanced features need attention, while licensing and pricing structures should be more flexible. Users seek better reporting capabilities and smoother VPN management, alongside refined technical support responsiveness. Additionally, security features and real-time logging should be addressed, with expanded compatibility and support for cloud and mobile environments.

"I would like to see improvements in Fortinet FortiGate regarding the active-active scenario. The active-active scenario is supported but not recommended, whereas other vendors are implementing active-active without issues."
"I would like to see improvements in Fortinet FortiGate regarding the active-active scenario. The active-active scenario is supported but not recommended, whereas other vendors are implementing active-active without issues. Perhaps in the future, we could effectively use both firewalls to increase the throughput. If there are two boxes, they both should be able to work."
"One of the most important areas for improvement for Fortinet FortiGate is the limited resources for tests. I was limited to a few interfaces for one month, and it would be great if Fortinet could improve these features in their test versions."

ROI

Fortinet FortiGate delivers significant returns, offering cost savings through reduced total ownership and efficient management. It enhances security and user productivity, leading to quicker investments returns. Many find Fortinet FortiGate affordable and valuable, outperforming competitors at a similar price point. The investment gives businesses stable services and decreased downtime expenses. Its efficiency and advanced security features support high returns, while organizations appreciate its ease of use and performance benefits compared to other solutions.

Pricing

Fortinet FortiGate pricing is generally competitive, offering value-for-money solutions for enterprises. Licensing models are straightforward, often costing less compared to competitors like Cisco and Palo Alto. Initial setup costs can be high, influenced by specific deployment needs and optional features. Pricing for annual licenses varies significantly with FortiGate models, often justified by the device's capabilities and security features. Many users appreciate the cost-effectiveness, especially with long-term support and bundled packages, though some find license renewals expensive.

"It is very cost-effective. You get features similar to other firewalls, such as Palo Alto, but at a lower price."
"The Fortinet FortiGate security features cost approximately $1,500 a year. The firewall itself doesn't have a recurring cost. It's the security features on top of that that you pay for."
"It's not the cheapest, but it's value for money. Given everything we've got out of it: the DMZ port, the VPN, and the high availability, it's a pretty reasonable price."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily deploy Fortinet FortiGate for network security, using it as a firewall to protect against external threats and to manage internal traffic. Its capabilities include VPN connectivity, threat prevention, and network segmentation, making it suitable for diverse environments, from enterprise data centers to small remote branches. Many utilize it for secure SD-WAN, ensuring reliable, stable connections across multiple sites, effectively addressing cybersecurity needs in IT infrastructure.

Service and Support

Many find Fortinet FortiGate's customer service and technical support excellent, praising responsiveness and professionalism. Some report delays and knowledge gaps, suggesting room for improvement in accessibility and speed. Staff competence varies by region, with regions like France receiving high praise. Documentation is often cited as a valuable resource, compensating for occasional inefficiencies. While some users find interactions challenging, others benefit from effective problem-solving and quick resolutions, depending on certification and support levels.

Deployment

Many describe Fortinet FortiGate's initial setup as straightforward and user-friendly, especially with some networking knowledge. FortiExplorer and comprehensive documentation aid the process, making it accessible. However, those facing complex networks or configurations may experience challenges requiring additional expertise. Most users find the web GUI and wizards helpful, emphasizing that ease of setup often depends on the environment's complexity and the user's familiarity with network setups. Some mention that assistance may be needed for more intricate requirements.

Scalability

Fortinet FortiGate is generally considered scalable, accommodating a range from small businesses to large enterprises. Many users find it effective for scaling needs, although some mention challenges with physical upgrades and cost implications. Its flexibility allows usage across multiple locations with different user capacities. The solution's VDOM and centralized management feature are appreciated, though licensing and hardware modularity could be improved. It requires careful initial sizing to meet future scalability requirements.

Stability

Fortinet FortiGate is generally stable with few issues, mainly related to high traffic or specific configurations. Some users report minor bugs and resource usage concerns, especially with IPS. Recent firmware updates have improved its reliability. Those employing it for extensive periods find it robust and reliable, noting that stability enhances when correctly configured. Users appreciate its resilience even when facing challenging environments, while ongoing support ensures minor issues are quickly addressed.

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

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

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Educational Organization

19%

Computer Software Company

14%

Comms Service Provider

Manufacturing Company

Financial Services Firm

Government

University

Retailer

Healthcare Company

Construction Company

Media Company

Hospitality Company

Non Profit

Energy/Utilities Company

Insurance Company

Real Estate/Law Firm

Outsourcing Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Legal Firm

Performing Arts

Transportation Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Consumer Goods Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Compare Fortinet FortiGate with alternative products

Learn more about Fortinet FortiGate

Organizations rely on Fortinet FortiGate for its robust integration with advanced security policies, ensuring significant protection for enterprises, cloud environments, and educational sectors. It facilitates network segmentation, application-level security, and authentication management, securing communication within and between locations such as branches and data centers. Its efficient SD-WAN and UTM features enable streamlined data management and enhanced threat protection capabilities. Users appreciate its centralized management, facilitating seamless operations across diverse environments.

What are the key features of Fortinet FortiGate?

VPN Capabilities: Ensure secure remote access for users and seamless site-to-site connections.
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Detect and prevent security threats and vulnerabilities.
Advanced Firewall: Offers robust firewalling with application control and web filtering.
SD-WAN: Optimizes application performance and enhances bandwidth management.
SSL VPN: Provides reliable and secure access for remote workers.

What benefits should users expect from Fortinet FortiGate?

High-performance Security: Delivers effective threat mitigation with high availability.
Centralized Management: Simplifies network operations with cloud-based management tools.
Detailed Analytics: Provides comprehensive insights into network activity and security threats.
Load Balancing: Ensures optimal resource distribution and traffic management.

Fortinet FortiGate is crucial in sectors like education, offering robust networks for secure data flow between campuses and facilitating remote learning. In enterprise environments, it allows efficient management of application traffic and security across multiple branches, while in the cloud, it seamlessly integrates with diverse platforms to enhance security infrastructure.

Fortinet FortiGate was previously known as FortiGate 60b, FortiGate 60c, FortiGate 80c, FortiGate 50b, FortiGate 200b, FortiGate 110c, FortiGate, Fortinet Firewall.

Fortinet FortiGate customers

Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, IBM, Cisco, Dell, HP, Oracle, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Vodafone, Orange, BT Group, Telstra, Deutsche Telekom, Comcast, Time Warner Cable, CenturyLink, NTT Communications, Tata Communications, SoftBank, China Mobile, Singtel, Telus, Rogers Communications, Bell Canada, Telkom Indonesia, Telkom South Africa, Telmex, Telia Company, Telkom Kenya