Product Overview: Fortinet FortiGate Cloud
FortiGate Cloud is a cloud-based, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution designed by Fortinet to simplify the management, configuration, and security analytics of FortiGate firewalls and associated network devices. This platform is particularly beneficial for small to mid-size businesses, as well as Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs), by offering centralized control, enhanced security, and compliance reporting.
Key Features
Simplified Cloud Management
FortiGate Cloud provides an intuitive cloud interface that allows users to manage multiple FortiGate devices, along with other Fortinet products such as FortiAPs, FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders, from a single dashboard. This simplifies remote administration and reduces the complexity associated with managing distributed network environments.
Multi-Tenancy Support
The platform supports multi-tenancy, enabling full data isolation over multiple sub-accounts. This feature is particularly useful for MSSPs managing multiple customers and large enterprises needing administrative divisions.
Automation and Cloud Storage
FortiGate Cloud includes automated backups stored in the cloud, as well as the ability to run and schedule CLI scripts across multiple FortiGates. It also offers one year of hosted log storage for paid subscriptions, compared to seven days for the free tier.
Analytics and Reporting
The service includes robust analytics and reporting capabilities. Users can access real-time and historical visibility into traffic, application, web, and security events. Preconfigured and custom reports, such as web activity, application usage, and cyber threat assessments, can be scheduled or run on demand. These reports provide actionable insights to help identify and mitigate security risks.
Zero-Touch Provisioning
With FortiGate Cloud, new branches can be brought online quickly using zero-touch provisioning via FortiDeploy. This eliminates the need for on-site configuration, saving time and reducing the risk of network misconfigurations.
Integration with Other FortiCloud Services
The platform is fully integrated with other FortiCloud services, including FortiCare support, FortiDeploy mechanisms, Fortinet Asset Management, and Fortinet Identity and Access Management. This integration allows for centralized administration of all cloud services and devices.
Security Enhancements
FortiGate Cloud includes cloud-based sandbox services for zero-day malware file inspection, which can be added with an optional license. Additionally, it supports Indicator of Compromise (IOC) services to enhance threat detection and response.
Remote Access and Configuration Management
Users can access and modify device configurations remotely through a web browser. The platform supports both read-only and read-write remote access, depending on the subscription level. Configuration backups and firmware upgrades can also be managed centrally.
SD-WAN Management
FortiGate Cloud facilitates the deployment and management of SD-WAN interfaces, allowing for the setup and management of application prioritization on WAN interfaces. This ensures efficient and optimized network performance.
Compliance and Log Retention
The service ensures compliance by storing log information securely in the cloud for up to one year for paid subscriptions. This log retention is crucial for meeting reporting and compliance requirements.
Subscription Options
FortiGate Cloud offers both free and paid subscription options. The free tier provides basic deployment and visibility features with seven days of log retention. The paid subscription significantly enhances operational efficiency and security by offering unrestricted management access, extended log retention, and additional reporting features.
In summary, FortiGate Cloud is a powerful tool for managing and securing network environments by providing centralized control, advanced analytics, and robust security features, all accessible through a user-friendly cloud interface.