Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Detailed Review
Security Tools
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Product Overview
Introduction to Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud is a cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution that simplifies the management, reporting, and analytics of FortiGate next-generation firewalls and associated devices.
Primary Function
The primary function of FortiGate Cloud is to centralize the management of FortiGate firewalls, as well as other Fortinet devices such as FortiSwitch, FortiAP, and FortiExtender. It offers zero-touch provisioning, which streamlines the initial deployment, setup, and ongoing maintenance of these devices.
Target Audience
FortiGate Cloud is designed for organizations of all sizes, but it is most commonly used by companies with 200-500 employees and revenues between $10 million and $50 million. The primary industries using this service include Information Technology and Services, and Telecommunications.
Key Features
- Configuration Management: Allows for the management of FortiGate and FortiWifi devices, including configuration, backup, firmware upgrades, and running scripts.
- Remote Access: Enables easy remote access to devices without a physical connection.
- Analytics and Reporting: Provides full web, event, and traffic analysis, as well as the ability to review past logs and create customized reports. It includes centralized logging, analytics, and reporting with 30 report templates.
- Alerts and Notifications: Sends email alerts on device and network events as configured.
- Multitenancy: Supports multitenancy, allowing managed security service providers (MSSPs) to manage multiple customers, administrators, and subaccounts. This feature is particularly useful for MSSPs who need to manage a large number of devices across multiple customers.
- Security and Compliance: Integrates with other Fortinet services like FortiSandbox SaaS and FortiGuard Indicators of Compromise. It also includes features like audit logs to track user actions and role-based access for read-only views.
- User Management: Offers FortiCloud Identity & Access Management, including multifactor authentication.
- SD-WAN and Network Management: Includes an SD-WAN dashboard and simplifies network operations with centralized and customizable dashboards.
Overall, FortiGate Cloud enhances the visibility and management of network security, making it easier for organizations to maintain and secure their network infrastructure.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud is crafted with a focus on ease of use and intuitive management, making it accessible even for organizations with limited experience in cloud technology or security.Ease of Use
FortiGate Cloud is designed to be user-friendly, allowing users to deploy and manage the service through a simple, web-based interface. This interface enables easy activation and configuration of the FortiGate Cloud account. For instance, to activate the account, users can go to the Dashboard, locate the FortiGate Cloud widget, and select the ‘Activate’ button, which guides them through the necessary steps.User Experience
The user experience is enhanced by the clarity and organization of the interface. When logging into the FortiGate Cloud portal, users are presented with a login page that lists all accessible accounts and their corresponding regions. This allows users to easily select the desired account and region, and even search for accounts using the serial number of a deployed FortiGate device.Real-Time Visibility and Control
The interface provides real-time visibility into traffic flowing through the cloud firewall, enabling users to quickly identify and respond to security threats. This real-time visibility and control help in enforcing security policies more effectively, which is crucial for maintaining comprehensive cybersecurity protection.Automation and Integration
FortiGate Cloud also offers the ability to automate many security tasks, such as policy enforcement and threat detection. This automation, combined with cloud-native integrations (for example, with Google Cloud), ensures that security operations are streamlined and efficient. The integration with other Fortinet products, like FortiEDR and FortiWeb Cloud, further enhances the overall security posture by providing extended detection and response capabilities.Customization
Users have the flexibility to customize their experience by toggling between a new layout and a legacy layout in the account settings. This allows them to choose the interface that best suits their preferences and operational needs.Conclusion
Overall, the FortiGate Cloud interface is structured to be intuitive, easy to manage, and highly functional, making it a viable solution for organizations of all sizes looking to secure their cloud infrastructure and applications. Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Key Features and Functionality
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud Overview
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud is a comprehensive, cloud-based security management and log retention service that offers a range of key features and functionalities, making it an essential tool for managing and securing FortiGate devices.Simplified Central Management
FortiGate Cloud provides a central GUI for managing individual or aggregated FortiGate and FortiWiFi devices. This centralized management allows for easy addition of devices to the FortiGate Cloud management subscription, offering detailed traffic and application visibility across the entire network. This simplifies the administrative process, enabling users to manage multiple devices from a single intuitive interface.Hosted Log Retention
The service includes hosted log retention, which is crucial for security and compliance programs. FortiGate Cloud automatically stores various types of logs, such as Traffic, System Events, Web, Applications, and Security Events, in the cloud, eliminating the need for separate storage systems. This feature ensures that valuable log information is securely stored and easily accessible.Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting
FortiGate Cloud enables real-time monitoring of the FortiGate network with various alerting mechanisms. This ensures network availability and helps pinpoint potential issues promptly. Alerts can be delivered via email, keeping administrators informed about the network’s status and any security threats.Customized Reporting and Analysis
The service offers customized or pre-configured reporting and analysis tools. Users can generate both on-demand and scheduled reports, providing insights into network traffic, application usage, and security events. This feature helps in detecting and reducing security risks by offering real-time and historical visibility into network activities.Multi-Tenancy Support
FortiGate Cloud supports multi-tenancy, allowing full data isolation over multiple sub-accounts. This is particularly beneficial for Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) servicing multiple customers, as well as large enterprises that need administrative division.Simple Remote Administration
The service facilitates simple remote administration of Fortinet LAN Edge network equipment, including FortiAPs, FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders. This remote access enables users to configure and modify network settings, policies, and security profiles without needing to physically access the devices.Automation and Cloud Storage
FortiGate Cloud includes features like automatic backups stored in the cloud, one year of hosted log storage, and the ability to run and schedule CLI scripts across multiple FortiGates. It also supports cloud REST API, making automation and management more efficient.Zero-Touch Provisioning
With FortiDeploy, new branch sites can be brought up and running immediately after being plugged in, without the need for on-site configuration. This zero-touch provisioning reduces the time and effort required to set up new network devices.Integration with Other FortiCloud Services
FortiGate Cloud is part of Fortinet’s suite of cloud services and is fully integrated with other services such as FortiCare support, FortiDeploy mechanisms, Fortinet Asset Management, and Fortinet Identity and Access Management. This integration provides a unified management experience for all cloud services.AI-Driven Security Features
While the primary documentation does not explicitly detail AI-specific features within FortiGate Cloud itself, it does integrate with other Fortinet services that leverage AI. For example, the FortiSandbox Cloud service, which is included with FortiGate Cloud, uses AI to detect and respond to advanced threats and ransomware. This service provides rapid threat detection and automated response capabilities, enhancing the overall security posture of the network.Conclusion
In summary, FortiGate Cloud offers a comprehensive set of features that simplify security management, enhance visibility, and improve the overall security of FortiGate devices, with integrations that leverage AI-driven security solutions. Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the Performance and Accuracy of Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud, particularly in the context of security tools with AI-driven capabilities, involves several key aspects.
Performance
The performance of FortiGate devices, including those in cloud configurations, is heavily influenced by the specific model and its hardware capabilities. For example, the FortiGate 1500D, a high-performance next-generation firewall, boasts exceptional throughput with 80 Gbps for firewall traffic and 11 Gbps for next-generation threat protection.
When enabling application control, which is a critical feature of FortiGate devices, the performance impact can vary. There isn’t a standard average metric for performance drop solely due to application control, as it depends on several factors such as the appliance size, number and type of interfaces, and the raw size of CPU and memory present.
However, it is generally recommended to use the IPS throughput as a guideline for application control throughput, since both use the same engine. This approach can help in sizing the appliance accurately.
Accuracy
The accuracy of throughput measurements on FortiGate devices can sometimes be inconsistent, especially when hardware acceleration is involved. For instance, the bandwidth chart on the FortiGate dashboard might show discrepancies between the graph and the text displays, particularly if sessions are being handed off to hardware acceleration. This can lead to inaccuracies in measuring throughput for those sessions.
Limitations
Several limitations are worth noting, especially in specific configurations like the Hyperscale firewall:
- Hyperscale Firewall Limitations: Features such as traffic shaping policies, proxy or flow-based inspection, IPsec VPN, and Central NAT are not supported in Hyperscale firewall VDOMs. Additionally, certain types of traffic that require session helpers or ALGs are processed by the CPU rather than NP7 processors, which can affect performance.
- FortiManager Cloud Limitations: While FortiManager Cloud supports various management features, it does not support remote FortiGate GUI access, and there are limitations in features like IAM user groups.
Areas for Improvement
To improve the accuracy and performance of FortiGate Cloud, it is recommended to:
- Conduct Real-World Testing: Since theoretical throughput can differ from real-world performance, conducting tests with the specific appliance and configuration can provide more accurate results.
- Monitor Bandwidth Accurately: Ensure that bandwidth measurements are accurate by checking if sessions are being handled by hardware acceleration and adjusting monitoring settings accordingly.
- Request Demos: For precise performance expectations, requesting a demo with the appliance of interest and the Fortinet sales team can be beneficial.
In summary, while FortiGate Cloud offers strong performance and security features, its accuracy and performance can be influenced by various factors, including hardware capabilities and specific configurations. Conducting thorough testing and monitoring can help in achieving the best possible results.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure of Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
The pricing structure of Fortinet FortiGate Cloud is structured into several tiers, each offering a range of features to cater to different needs.
Free Tier
- The free tier of FortiGate Cloud provides basic functionality, including deployment and visibility of FortiGate devices.
- Data retention is limited to 7 days, with unlimited volume for certain models (e.g., FortiGate 30 through 3200 series).
Full Subscription Option
- This tier offers more comprehensive features:
- Configuration Management and Backup: Full management, configurations, and backups for FortiGate devices.
- Log Retention: Extended to 1 year of online logs and analysis.
- Reports: Access to multiple predefined reports, beyond the 360-degree activity report available in the free tier.
- CLI Scripts and Event Automation: Support for CLI scripts and event automation.
- SD-WAN Monitoring: Ability to configure, monitor, and manage SD-WAN interfaces and application prioritization.
- Cloud Access: Read/write access to the cloud, as opposed to the read-only access in the free tier.
- Customizable Firmware Profile: Option to create custom firmware profiles.
Additional Features
- Zero-Touch Deployment: Both the free and paid tiers support zero-touch deployment and bulk provisioning for FortiGate, FortiWifi, and FortiAP products.
- Two-Factor Authentication: Free two-factor authentication using the FortiToken app.
- Multi-Tenancy: Single license enables multi-tenancy for managing multiple customers, with features like read-only customer accounts and unique customer logos on reports.
- Security Analytics: Available in both tiers, providing security analytics and indicators of compromise (IOC).
Pricing
- The exact pricing varies based on the specific services and devices. For example:
- FortiGuard Indicator of Compromise (IOC): Prices range from $89.31 for the FG20-FG90 series to $267.93 for the FG100-FG300 series.
- FortiCloud – FortiDeploy: Priced at $74.43 for zero-touch bulk provisioning.
- 1-Year Subscription: For example, a 1-year subscription for FortiGate Cloud management, analysis, and log retention can cost around $156.60 for certain models.
Regional Considerations
- FortiGate Cloud offers isolated instances for Europe, Americas, and Asia to ensure data separation for privacy laws.
This structure allows users to choose the level of service that best fits their needs, from basic free services to more comprehensive paid subscriptions.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Integration and Compatibility
Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud Overview
Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud is a comprehensive cloud-based service that integrates seamlessly with various Fortinet and other devices, offering a unified management platform for enhanced security and network management.Integration with Fortinet Devices
FortiGate Cloud is highly integrated with other Fortinet devices, including FortiAPs (access points), FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders. This integration is facilitated through the Fortinet Security Fabric, which allows for the management of these devices from a single cloud interface. For instance, the FortiGate can manage switch ports and access points, ensuring that they inherit the same security properties as the firewall. This Fabric integration enables automated responses to threats, such as blocking infected devices detected through Indicators of Compromise (IOCs).Zero-Touch Deployment and Configuration
FortiGate Cloud supports zero-touch deployment and configuration, making it easy to provision and manage thousands of devices with a single FortiCloud key. This feature simplifies the setup and management of FortiGates, FortiAPs, and FortiSwitches across multiple sites.SD-WAN Management
The service also includes capabilities for configuring and managing SD-WAN interfaces, setting up application prioritization, and deploying entire SD-WAN solutions. This ensures that network traffic is optimized and managed efficiently from the cloud interface.Log Management and Analytics
FortiGate Cloud provides centralized log retention and analytics, storing various types of logs (traffic, system events, web, applications, and security events) in the cloud. This service includes real-time monitoring and alerting mechanisms, as well as customized reporting tools that can be emailed as PDFs. All communication between devices and the cloud is encrypted, ensuring data security.Compatibility Across Platforms
FortiGate Cloud is compatible with a wide range of cloud infrastructures, including public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. It supports deployment on major Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) vendors such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This flexibility allows users to deploy FortiGate VMs in various cloud environments to secure their infrastructure.Multi-Tenant and MSP Support
The service offers multi-tenant options, which are particularly useful for Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) who manage multiple customers. This allows MSSPs to host their own instances of FortiGate Cloud, managing numerous FortiGate devices across different customers from a single interface.Limitations with Standalone Devices
It’s important to note that while FortiGate Cloud is ideal for managing FortiGate-connected devices, it is not compatible with standalone FortiAPs and FortiSwitches managed outside of the FortiGate. For standalone devices, FortiLAN Cloud (formerly FortiAP and FortiSwitch Cloud) is the recommended solution, but it does not offer the same level of integration as FortiGate Cloud when using FortiLink-managed devices. Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Customer Support and Resources
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud Support Options
Fortinet’s FortiGate Cloud offers a comprehensive set of customer support options and additional resources to ensure effective management and troubleshooting of their security solutions.Technical Support
Customers with valid licenses can access free technical support. Here are the steps to create a technical support ticket:Steps to Create a Technical Support Ticket
- Gather necessary information such as your FortiGate Cloud account ID, serial number, and version numbers of relevant products.
- Provide a detailed description of the issue, including any relevant background information, debug logs, error messages, and screenshots.
- Submit a technical support ticket through the FortiGate Cloud GUI by selecting “Support > Create a Ticket” and entering the required details.
FortiCare Support
FortiCare support is a key component of Fortinet’s customer support. It typically covers:FortiCare Support Services
- Telephone and chat support
- Return Material Authorization (RMA)
- Firmware updates
Cloud Management and Analytics
FortiGate Cloud provides a range of cloud-based management and analytics tools, including:Cloud Management Features
- Zero-touch provisioning
- Configuration management and backup
- Centralized logging and analytics
- Reporting and audit logs
- Firmware management
- CLI scripts and automation options
Additional Resources
- FortiCloud Portal: This is the umbrella portal for all Fortinet cloud services, providing single sign-on access to various cloud management and security services, including asset and account management, FortiCare support, and Identity and Access Management (IAM).
- Documentation and Guides: Fortinet offers extensive documentation, such as the FortiGate Cloud Administration Guide and Concept Guide, which provide detailed information on how to use and manage FortiGate Cloud services.
- Community Support: The Fortinet Community Forum is available for customers to ask questions, share experiences, and get support from other users and Fortinet experts.
Multi-Tenant and MSP Support
For Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and multi-tenant environments, FortiGate Cloud offers features such as multi-tenant support, allowing for the management of multiple customers and devices from a single interface. By leveraging these support options and resources, customers can effectively manage their FortiGate Cloud deployments and ensure optimal security and network performance. Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Ease of Use and Centralized Management
FortiGate Cloud offers a user-friendly interface with centralized management, making it easy to oversee and configure multiple FortiGate devices from a single console.
Strong Security Features
The solution includes robust security capabilities such as firewall, VPN, and Unified Threat Management (UTM) features, ensuring comprehensive network protection.
Scalability
FortiGate Cloud is highly scalable, allowing it to grow with your organization’s needs, whether you are managing a single device or thousands across multiple customers.
Zero-Touch Deployment
The service offers zero-touch deployment options, simplifying the setup and configuration process for new devices.
Reporting and Analytics
FortiGate Cloud provides extensive reporting and analytics tools, including dashboards and custom reports, to help you monitor and optimize your network.
SD-WAN Management
It allows easy deployment and management of SD-WAN interfaces, including application prioritization and optimization.
Fabric Integration
The solution integrates seamlessly with other Fortinet products like FortiSwitch and FortiAP, extending firewall properties to these devices and enabling automated threat responses.
Log Retention and Cloud Storage
FortiGate Cloud offers cloud-based log storage, with options for up to 1 year of log retention, which is crucial for security and compliance.
Two-Factor Authentication
The service includes free two-factor authentication using the FortiToken app, adding an extra layer of security.
Disadvantages
Licensing Model
The licensing model for FortiGate Cloud can be complex, which may add to the overall cost and administrative burden.
Technical Support
Users have reported slow response times from technical support, which can be frustrating when issues arise.
Third-Party Integration
There is a need for improvement in integrating with third-party services, which can limit its versatility.
Data Retention Limitations
The free tier has limited data retention of only 7 days, and even the subscription tier has a limit of 1 year, which might not be sufficient for all users.
Interface Performance
Some users have experienced slow and unresponsive interfaces, along with reports of bugs and glitches in the software.
Learning Curve
New users may find the system has a steep learning curve, especially when managing a large number of devices.
Customization Options
There is a lack of customization options, which can be frustrating for users who need more flexibility.
These points highlight the key benefits and drawbacks of using Fortinet FortiGate Cloud, helping you make an informed decision about whether it suits your security and management needs.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Fortinet FortiGate Cloud with other security tools in the AI-driven and network security categories, several key points and alternatives come into focus.
Unique Features of Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
- Cloud-Based Management: FortiGate Cloud offers a cloud-based SaaS solution that allows for the management of Fortinet firewalls, including zero-touch deployment, configuration management, and log retention. This cloud aspect provides flexibility in disaster recovery and cost management.
- SD-WAN and VPN: It includes robust SD-WAN, VPN, and security management tools, which contribute to its stable performance and ease of use.
- Fabric Integration: FortiGate Cloud integrates seamlessly with other Fortinet products like FortiSwitch and FortiAP, enabling extended infrastructure management and automation in response to threats.
- Two-Factor Authentication: It includes free two-factor authentication using FortiToken apps, enhancing security.
Potential Alternatives and Comparisons
Centralized Management and Scalability
- Fortinet FortiManager: While FortiGate Cloud is strong in cloud-based management, FortiManager excels in centralized management and scalability across large networks. It offers automation, policy management, and comprehensive security across extensive networks, making it a better choice for large-scale environments.
AI-Driven Security Tools
- Darktrace: Known for its autonomous response technology, Darktrace interrupts cyber-attacks in real-time, offering a more advanced AI-driven threat response compared to FortiGate Cloud’s more traditional security management.
- Balbix: This AI-based security solution provides continuous asset discovery, vulnerability identification, and breach risk prediction. It quantifies cyber risk in monetary terms and prescribes mitigation actions, offering a more comprehensive AI-driven risk management approach.
Web Security and Threat Protection
- Fortinet FortiGate SWG: While not a direct competitor, FortiGate SWG is another Fortinet product that offers advanced threat protection, SSL inspection, and application control. It is more focused on web security and might be considered for organizations needing a more specialized web security solution.
General Security and Compliance
- Cynet: This platform integrates XDR (Extended Detection and Response) with automated investigation and remediation, providing a holistic security solution that includes endpoint security, network security, and user entity behavior analytics.
- CrowdStrike: Known for its cloud-native endpoint protection, CrowdStrike offers a comprehensive security platform that stops breaches and provides real-time threat intelligence, which could be an alternative for organizations looking for a more endpoint-focused security solution.
Room for Improvement and Considerations
- FortiGate Cloud needs improvements in setup localization, data retention, and integration with third-party solutions. Additionally, its user interface and technical support could be enhanced for better usability and issue resolution.
- When choosing between FortiGate Cloud and other alternatives, consider the specific needs of your organization. For example, if centralized management and scalability are crucial, FortiManager might be a better fit. If AI-driven threat detection and response are key, solutions like Darktrace or Balbix could be more suitable.
Summary
In summary, FortiGate Cloud is a versatile tool for managing Fortinet firewalls in cloud environments, but it may not offer the same level of AI-driven security or centralized management as some of its competitors. Evaluating the specific features and needs of your organization will help in selecting the most appropriate security solution.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
What is FortiGate Cloud?
FortiGate Cloud is a cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) that offers a range of management, reporting, and analytics for FortiGate next-generation firewalls. It simplifies the initial deployment, setup, and ongoing management of FortiGate devices, including those with SD-WAN functions, FortiSwitch, FortiAP, and FortiExtender, using zero-touch provisioning.
What features does FortiGate Cloud offer?
FortiGate Cloud provides several key features, including:
- Management of FortiGate and FortiWifi devices, including configuration, backup, firmware upgrade, and running scripts.
- Remote Access to connect to devices without a physical connection.
- Full web, event, and traffic analysis on FortiGates.
- Review of past-date logs from FortiGates.
- Creation, scheduling, and customization of reports.
- Email alerts on device and network events.
- Centralized dashboard with real-time monitors and log views.
- Integration with other Fortinet services like FortiSandbox SaaS and FortiDeploy.
How does FortiGate Cloud handle multitenancy?
To support multitenancy, you can upgrade your regular FortiGate Cloud account to a multitenancy account. This allows you to add subaccounts and subaccount users under your primary account, which is useful for managing multiple customers or organizations.
What kind of analytics and reporting does FortiGate Cloud provide?
FortiGate Cloud offers extensive analytics and reporting capabilities. You can run full web, event, and traffic analysis on your FortiGates, review different types of past-date logs, and create, schedule, and customize a full range of reports. It also includes a report generator to create custom report templates and schedule reports in various formats.
How does FortiGate Cloud manage firmware and configuration?
FortiGate Cloud allows you to remotely upgrade FortiOS on FortiGate devices, as well as on FortiAP, FortiSwitch, and FortiExtender devices connected to the FortiGate. It also supports configuration backup and restore, and you can manage and run CLI scripts to check device status or get bulk configuration information.
Is FortiGate Cloud available in different regions?
Yes, FortiGate Cloud has datacenters located in Canada, Germany, the United States, and Japan to ensure better performance and compliance with regulations such as GDPR for international customers.
How does FortiGate Cloud integrate with other Fortinet services?
FortiGate Cloud integrates with other Fortinet services like FortiSandbox SaaS and FortiDeploy. This integration allows for cloud-based sandbox analysis and other advanced security features.
What is FortiGate Cloud Premium, and what are its additional features?
FortiGate Cloud Premium is an enhanced version of FortiGate Cloud with improved user experience and additional features. It includes centralized and customizable dashboards, full-featured FortiOS configuration management from the cloud, centralized reporting with 30 report templates, log views, and support for multitenancy with FortiCloud Organizations. There is no additional license required to upgrade to FortiGate Cloud Premium.
How do I manage user access and security in FortiGate Cloud?
FortiGate Cloud supports user management through FortiCloud Identity & Access Management, which includes multifactor authentication. It also provides role-based access to read-only views and audit logs to track user actions.
Can I manage other Fortinet devices through FortiGate Cloud?
Yes, you can manage other Fortinet devices such as FortiAP, FortiSwitch, and FortiExtender through FortiGate Cloud. This includes wireless configuration, FortiSwitch management, and FortiExtender deployment and configuration.
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
Fortinet FortiGate Cloud is a comprehensive, cloud-based SaaS solution that offers a wide range of management and security analytics services for Fortinet devices. Here’s a detailed assessment of its benefits and who would most benefit from using it.
Key Benefits
Zero-Touch Deployment and Configuration
FortiGate Cloud allows for easy deployment and configuration of FortiGate firewalls, as well as other Fortinet devices like FortiSwitch, FortiAP, and FortiExtender. This simplifies network operations and reduces the risk of misconfigurations.
Centralized Management
Users can manage multiple FortiGate devices and their downstream devices from a single, intuitive interface. This includes configuring network settings, policies, security profiles, and performing backups and software updates.
Advanced Analytics and Reporting
The service provides real-time and historical visibility into traffic analytics and security threats. It offers various reports such as web activity, application usage, and cyber threat assessments, which can be scheduled or run on demand. This helps in identifying security risks and prioritizing necessary improvements.
Security Features
FortiGate Cloud includes features like cloud sandbox services for zero-day malware inspection (available with an add-on license), and it integrates with the FortiGate Security Fabric to block sophisticated attacks in real-time.
Log Retention and Compliance
The service stores logs securely in the cloud, with options for up to one year of log retention, which is crucial for security and compliance best practices.
Who Would Benefit Most
Small to Medium-Sized Businesses
These organizations can benefit significantly from the enterprise-grade analytics and reporting provided by FortiGate Cloud, which helps them gain complete visibility into their network and attack surface.
Mid-Sized to Large Enterprises
Companies with multiple branches or a large number of devices can leverage the centralized management and zero-touch deployment capabilities to streamline their network operations and enhance security.
IT and Telecommunications Industries
Given that a significant portion of FortiGate Cloud users are from the Information Technology and Services (42%) and Telecommunications (10%) sectors, these industries can particularly benefit from the advanced security and management features.
Overall Recommendation
FortiGate Cloud is highly recommended for organizations seeking to simplify their network management, enhance security, and gain detailed insights into their network traffic and security threats. Its ability to manage multiple devices centrally, provide extensive analytics, and ensure compliance through log retention makes it a valuable tool for businesses of various sizes.
For those considering this solution, the free tier offers a good starting point to evaluate its capabilities, with the option to upgrade to a full subscription for more comprehensive features and longer log retention. The integration with other Fortinet devices and the FortiGate Security Fabric adds significant value, making FortiGate Cloud a strong choice for enhancing network security and operational efficiency.