Fortinet Switches Review: Network Security and Performance Solutions

Network infrastructure forms the backbone of modern business operations. Companies need reliable equipment to handle data traffic, protect sensitive information, and maintain smooth connectivity.

Fortinet switches have emerged as a popular choice for organizations seeking combined networking and security capabilities. This comprehensive review examines Fortinet switches in detail, helping you understand whether these network devices fit your business requirements.

Fortinet has built a strong reputation in the cybersecurity industry. The company extends its security expertise into network switching technology. Their switches integrate security features directly into the hardware, creating what they call a Security-Driven Network.

This approach differs from traditional switches that focus solely on data transmission. Whether you run a small office or manage a large enterprise network, understanding Fortinet switches can help you make informed purchasing decisions. This guide covers everything from basic features to advanced capabilities, pricing considerations, and real-world performance.

Key Takeaways

Performance and Security Integration: Fortinet switches combine traditional networking functions with built-in security features, offering threat detection and prevention without requiring separate security appliances for basic protection.

FortiGate Integration Benefits: The switches work seamlessly with FortiGate firewalls through the Security Fabric architecture, enabling centralized management and automated threat response across your entire network infrastructure.

Power over Ethernet Capabilities: Most models include PoE and PoE+ support, allowing you to power IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones directly through network cables without additional power adapters.

Scalability Across Business Sizes: The product line ranges from compact 8-port models for small offices to high-capacity 48-port switches with 10G uplinks for enterprise data centers, accommodating growth without platform changes.

Management Flexibility Options: You can manage these switches through web interfaces, command-line access, or the centralized FortiManager platform, giving network administrators multiple control methods based on their preferences and needs.

Understanding Fortinet Switches and Their Market Position

Fortinet entered the switching market by applying their security-first philosophy. Traditional network switches move data packets between devices. Fortinet switches do this while simultaneously scanning for threats. This dual functionality appeals to businesses that want simplified network architecture without compromising security.

The company positions their switches as part of a broader Security Fabric. This concept connects firewalls, switches, access points, and other network devices into a unified security platform. When a threat appears on one device, the entire system responds. This coordinated approach reduces the time between threat detection and response.

Fortinet competes against established switching brands like Cisco, HP, and Juniper. Their competitive advantage lies in security integration. While other manufacturers require separate security appliances, Fortinet embeds these functions directly into the switch hardware. This integration can reduce equipment costs and simplify network management. The company targets mid-sized businesses and enterprises that prioritize security alongside network performance.

Market analysts recognize Fortinet as a strong player in the secure switching category. The company continues gaining market share by offering competitive pricing compared to premium brands while maintaining enterprise-grade features. Their switches appeal particularly to organizations already using FortiGate firewalls, creating a natural ecosystem expansion.

FortiSwitch Product Line Overview

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Fortinet offers several switch series designed for different use cases. The FortiSwitch Secure Access Series targets edge deployment, connecting end-user devices to the network. These switches range from small 8-port models to larger 48-port configurations. They support various speeds including Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit uplinks.

The FortiSwitch Data Center Series focuses on high-performance environments. These models feature higher port densities, faster backplane speeds, and enhanced redundancy features. Data center switches handle core network traffic and support virtualized environments. They include features like VXLAN support and advanced quality of service controls.

Each series offers both PoE and non-PoE models. Power over Ethernet capability allows the switch to power devices like IP phones, cameras, and wireless access points through the network cable. This feature eliminates the need for separate power adapters and simplifies installation. PoE+ models provide higher wattage for devices with greater power requirements.

Fortinet also produces ruggedized switches for industrial environments. These hardened models withstand extreme temperatures, vibration, and dust. Manufacturing facilities, outdoor installations, and warehouse environments benefit from these durable options. The industrial line maintains the same security features as standard models while adding environmental protection.

Security Features Built Into Fortinet Switches

Security functions set Fortinet switches apart from basic networking equipment. Network access control represents a core security feature. The switches authenticate devices before allowing network access. This prevents unauthorized equipment from connecting to your infrastructure. Authentication methods include 802.1X, MAC authentication, and captive portal options.

Threat detection capabilities run directly on the switch hardware. The devices scan traffic for malware signatures, botnet communications, and suspicious patterns. When the switch identifies a threat, it can quarantine the affected device automatically. This containment prevents lateral movement of threats across your network.

Fortinet switches support network segmentation through VLANs and private VLANs. Segmentation divides your network into isolated zones. Critical systems like financial databases stay separated from general user traffic. This isolation limits damage if one network segment becomes compromised. The switches enforce security policies at the hardware level, improving performance compared to software-based segmentation.

Integration with FortiGuard threat intelligence services provides real-time security updates. The switches receive new threat signatures automatically, maintaining protection against emerging risks. This cloud-connected approach ensures your network defenses stay current without manual intervention. The subscription-based service updates continuously as security researchers identify new threats.

Top 3 Alternatives for Fortinet Switches

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While Fortinet switches offer excellent security integration, several alternatives deserve consideration. The Cisco Catalyst series remains the industry standard, offering extensive features and broad support. Cisco switches provide excellent performance and reliability, though typically at higher price points. Their ecosystem includes comprehensive management tools and extensive documentation.

Ubiquiti UniFi switches appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking simplified management. These switches offer good performance at affordable prices with cloud-based management. The UniFi platform works well for small to medium businesses that need straightforward deployment. However, they lack the advanced security features found in Fortinet models.

HPE Aruba switches combine strong networking capabilities with security features. The Aruba ClearPass integration provides network access control similar to Fortinet offerings. HPE switches offer competitive pricing and good performance. They work particularly well in environments already using HPE infrastructure components.

Performance Specifications and Capabilities

Fortinet switches deliver solid performance across various metrics. Switching capacity determines how much data the device can process simultaneously. Entry-level models offer 20-36 Gbps capacity, sufficient for small office environments. Mid-range switches provide 128-256 Gbps, handling moderate traffic loads. Enterprise models reach 1+ Tbps capacity for demanding data center applications.

Latency measurements indicate how quickly the switch processes packets. Fortinet switches typically achieve latency under 10 microseconds for standard configurations. Low latency proves critical for real-time applications like video conferencing and VoIP communications. The switches maintain consistent performance even under heavy traffic loads.

Port configurations vary significantly across models. Common configurations include 24 or 48 ports at Gigabit speeds with 4 SFP+ uplink ports at 10 Gigabit speeds. The uplinks connect to core switches or routers, carrying aggregated traffic from access switches. Some models offer modular uplink options, allowing you to customize connectivity based on your requirements.

Quality of Service functions prioritize critical traffic. The switches can identify and prioritize voice, video, or application-specific traffic. This prioritization ensures important communications maintain quality even during network congestion. QoS policies apply at wire speed without reducing overall switch performance.

Management and Configuration Options

Fortinet provides multiple management interfaces for their switches. The web-based GUI offers the most accessible option for administrators. The graphical interface displays network topology, port status, and security events. Configuration wizards guide you through common setup tasks, simplifying initial deployment.

Command-line interface access appeals to experienced network administrators. The CLI provides complete control over switch functions with script-friendly commands. Advanced users can automate configuration tasks and implement complex policies through CLI commands. The interface syntax follows industry-standard conventions, easing the learning curve for administrators familiar with other switch platforms.

FortiManager centralizes management for multiple switches and security devices. This platform allows you to configure, monitor, and update hundreds of devices from a single console. Large organizations benefit from the consistency and efficiency FortiManager provides. The platform includes policy templates, automated provisioning, and compliance reporting features.

Integration with FortiGate firewalls enables simplified management through the Security Fabric. When switches connect to FortiGate devices, administrators manage both through the firewall interface. This unified management reduces the number of platforms administrators must learn. Configuration changes push automatically from the firewall to connected switches.

Power over Ethernet Implementation

PoE technology simplifies device deployment across your network. Fortinet switches support IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards, delivering up to 30 watts per port. This power capacity handles most IP phones, security cameras, and wireless access points. You eliminate power adapters and can place devices in locations without convenient electrical outlets.

PoE+ models provide higher power budgets for demanding devices. Some switches offer 60W or even 90W per port for specialized equipment. High-power PoE supports devices like PTZ cameras, building automation controllers, and outdoor access points. The switches include total power budgets that limit simultaneous PoE usage across all ports.

Power management features allow administrators to set priorities. Critical devices like security cameras receive power allocation first. Less critical devices may lose power during budget constraints. This prioritization ensures important systems remain operational even if the switch reaches its total power capacity.

The switches monitor power consumption per port in real-time. Administrators can view power usage through the management interface, identifying devices that consume excessive power. This monitoring helps with capacity planning and troubleshooting power-related issues. Some models support power cycling, allowing remote device resets without physical access.

Security Fabric Integration Benefits

The Security Fabric concept connects Fortinet products into a coordinated defense system. Switches share threat intelligence with firewalls, access points, and endpoint protection software. When one component detects a threat, the entire system responds automatically. This coordination significantly reduces threat response time.

Automated threat containment represents a key Security Fabric benefit. If a switch detects malware on a connected device, it can quarantine that device immediately. The switch notifies the firewall, which updates access policies. Access points may disconnect the device from wireless networks. This automated response prevents manual intervention delays.

Single-pane-of-glass visibility shows your entire network security posture. Administrators view threats, device status, and policy violations from one console. This unified view simplifies security monitoring and accelerates incident response. Reports aggregate data from all Security Fabric components, providing comprehensive security insights.

FortiAnalyzer integration adds advanced logging and reporting capabilities. The platform collects logs from all switches and security devices. Administrators can search historical data, generate compliance reports, and identify security trends. Long-term log retention supports forensic investigations when security incidents occur.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

Small office deployments typically use 24-port switches with PoE. These configurations support desktop computers, VoIP phones, and wireless access points from a single device. The integrated security features protect the network without requiring a separate security appliance. Small businesses appreciate the simplified architecture and reduced equipment costs.

Medium-sized businesses often implement multiple switches in a stacked configuration. Switch stacking connects several physical switches that operate as a single logical device. This approach simplifies management while providing growth capacity. Stacked switches share configuration and management, reducing administrative overhead as the network expands.

Enterprise data centers deploy high-capacity switches with 10G or 40G uplinks. These environments require maximum throughput and redundancy. Fortinet data center switches support virtualization technologies and advanced routing protocols. They handle east-west traffic between servers while maintaining security policy enforcement.

Educational institutions benefit from the network access control features. Schools can authenticate students and guests separately, applying different security policies. The switches prevent unauthorized devices from accessing sensitive systems. Classroom deployments use PoE switches to power interactive displays and access points.

Pricing Structure and Value Proposition

Fortinet switches occupy the mid-range pricing segment. Entry-level 24-port models start around $800 to $1,200 without PoE. Similar models with PoE cost approximately $1,500 to $2,200. These prices include basic security features but may require subscriptions for advanced threat intelligence. The pricing positions Fortinet below premium brands like Cisco while above budget options like TP-Link.

Enterprise models with higher port counts and advanced features range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Data center switches with 10G or 40G capabilities command premium prices. However, Fortinet generally costs 20-30% less than comparable Cisco equipment. This price difference provides significant savings for large deployments.

Licensing costs add to the total ownership expense. FortiGuard security subscriptions enable threat intelligence updates and advanced security features. Annual subscription costs typically run 15-20% of the hardware price. Some organizations consider these subscriptions optional, but they significantly enhance security capabilities. Evaluation of total cost should include both hardware and ongoing subscription expenses.

The value proposition centers on integrated security. Organizations that would otherwise purchase separate security appliances may find Fortinet switches cost-effective. The combined functionality reduces equipment count, power consumption, and rack space requirements. However, businesses seeking basic switching without security features may find better value in simpler alternatives.

Firmware Updates and Support Services

Regular firmware updates maintain security and add features. Fortinet releases updates quarterly with critical security patches appearing more frequently. The update process can occur through the web interface, CLI, or centrally through FortiManager. Scheduled maintenance windows minimize disruption during update procedures.

Support services include multiple tiers with varying response times. Basic support provides firmware access and email assistance. Premium support adds 24/7 phone support with faster response commitments. Large enterprises often purchase premium support for critical infrastructure components. Support contracts typically renew annually with costs based on the support tier selected.

Documentation quality significantly impacts user experience. Fortinet provides comprehensive technical guides, configuration examples, and troubleshooting procedures. The knowledge base includes thousands of articles addressing common issues. Video tutorials demonstrate complex configuration tasks. Community forums allow administrators to share experiences and solutions.

Training programs help administrators maximize their investment. Fortinet offers certification programs covering switch deployment and management. Online courses provide flexible learning options. In-person training delivers hands-on experience with actual hardware. Organizations with limited networking expertise benefit from these educational resources.

Real-World Performance Feedback

User reviews consistently praise the security integration features. Organizations appreciate the unified management between switches and firewalls. The ability to detect and quarantine threats at the switch level receives positive feedback. Many users report reduced security incidents after implementing Fortinet switches throughout their networks.

Performance feedback indicates reliable operation under normal conditions. Users report stable connections and good throughput in typical office environments. The switches handle VLAN configurations and link aggregation without issues. Latency remains low even with security features enabled, maintaining good performance for real-time applications.

Some criticisms focus on the learning curve for administrators new to Fortinet products. The configuration approach differs somewhat from traditional switch vendors. Organizations migrating from other platforms may need time to adapt. However, users familiar with FortiGate firewalls find the switch interface intuitive and consistent.

Reliability reports show generally positive results. Hardware failure rates appear comparable to other mid-range switch manufacturers. The lifetime warranty on many models provides peace of mind. However, some users note that failed units may take several days for replacement, emphasizing the importance of proper redundancy planning.

Comparison with Traditional Security Approaches

Traditional networks separate switching and security functions. Standard switches handle data transmission while dedicated firewalls or intrusion prevention systems provide security. This separation creates potential blind spots where threats move between the switch and security appliance. Fortinet switches close these gaps by implementing security at the access layer.

The integrated approach offers several advantages. Fewer devices reduce management complexity and potential failure points. Power consumption and cooling requirements decrease with consolidated equipment. Capital expenses decline when one device replaces two separate purchases. These benefits appeal particularly to organizations with limited IT resources.

However, the integrated approach has trade-offs. Some security professionals prefer specialized security appliances with more advanced features. Deep packet inspection capabilities on dedicated security devices may exceed switch-based inspection. Organizations with complex security requirements might still need dedicated security infrastructure in addition to secure switches.

Network design flexibility differs between approaches. Traditional architectures allow independent scaling of switching and security capacity. You can upgrade security appliances without changing switches, or vice versa. Integrated solutions require considering both functions simultaneously during upgrades. This coupling may complicate long-term infrastructure planning for some organizations.

Technical Support and Community Resources

Fortinet maintains a comprehensive support portal with searchable documentation. The Fortinet Cookbook provides step-by-step guides for common configurations. Network administrators can find examples for VLAN setup, security policy creation, and troubleshooting procedures. The cookbook format makes complex tasks more accessible to less experienced administrators.

Community forums connect users with similar challenges. Experienced administrators share configuration examples and solution approaches. Fortinet staff members participate in forums, providing official guidance on technical questions. The community proves valuable for troubleshooting unusual issues or implementing advanced configurations.

Third-party resources supplement official documentation. YouTube channels feature video tutorials covering switch deployment and configuration. Technology blogs publish reviews and implementation guides. Professional training companies offer courses focusing specifically on FortiSwitch products. These varied resources help administrators build skills at different experience levels.

Response times for support tickets vary by support level. Premium support customers report response times under four hours for critical issues. Standard support may take 24-48 hours for initial responses. Complex issues sometimes require escalation to engineering teams, potentially extending resolution times. Overall support quality receives generally positive feedback from users.

Future-Proofing and Technology Trends

Network technology continues advancing rapidly. Fortinet updates their switch lineup regularly to incorporate new capabilities. Multi-gigabit Ethernet support appears in newer models, offering 2.5G and 5G speeds. These intermediate speeds suit modern wireless access points that exceed Gigabit speeds but don’t require full 10G connectivity.

Software-defined networking features expand in recent firmware releases. SDN capabilities allow more dynamic network configuration based on changing business needs. API access enables integration with orchestration platforms and automation tools. Organizations moving toward infrastructure-as-code approaches benefit from these programmable capabilities.

Artificial intelligence integration represents an emerging trend. Future firmware updates may incorporate AI-driven threat detection and network optimization. Machine learning algorithms could identify unusual traffic patterns or optimize quality of service settings automatically. Fortinet invests heavily in AI research, suggesting these features will appear in switches over time.

Cloud management options continue expanding. FortiCloud services allow switch management from anywhere without on-premises management servers. This flexibility appeals to organizations with distributed locations or remote work arrangements. The cloud management direction aligns with broader industry trends toward centralized, location-independent infrastructure control.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Power consumption impacts both operating costs and environmental footprint. Fortinet switches implement Energy Efficient Ethernet standards, reducing power during low traffic periods. Ports automatically enter low-power mode when connected devices support the feature. This automatic adjustment can reduce energy consumption by 20-30% compared to older switch technology.

Heat dissipation affects cooling requirements in equipment rooms. Lower power consumption generates less heat, reducing air conditioning needs. Some smaller models operate without fans, eliminating fan noise and failure points. Fanless operation particularly benefits office environments where noise proves disruptive.

Compliance with environmental regulations matters for global deployments. Fortinet switches meet RoHS requirements limiting hazardous materials. Energy Star certifications appear on qualified models. These certifications help organizations meet corporate sustainability goals and satisfy regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions.

End-of-life considerations affect environmental impact. Fortinet participates in equipment recycling programs. Product documentation includes information about proper disposal and recycling. The company’s extended hardware warranty reduces premature equipment replacement, maximizing useful product life and minimizing electronic waste.

Making the Purchase Decision

Evaluating Fortinet switches requires considering multiple factors beyond price. Your existing infrastructure significantly impacts value. Organizations already using FortiGate firewalls gain substantial benefits from switch integration. Companies using different firewall brands may not fully utilize Security Fabric features, reducing the value proposition.

Network size and complexity influence product selection. Small offices with simple needs may find entry-level models sufficient. Large enterprises with multiple locations need advanced features like stacking and redundancy. Proper needs assessment prevents over-purchasing unnecessary capabilities or under-purchasing inadequate equipment.

Security requirements drive purchase decisions for many organizations. Businesses handling sensitive data benefit most from integrated security features. Companies in regulated industries may find compliance easier with security-focused switches. Organizations with minimal security concerns might prefer less expensive alternatives without security overhead.

Long-term growth plans should inform purchasing choices. Selecting switches with expansion capacity avoids premature replacement. Modular uplink options provide future connectivity flexibility. Cloud management compatibility supports distributed growth. Considering three to five year needs helps ensure your investment remains relevant as your organization evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Fortinet switches work without FortiGate firewalls?

Yes, Fortinet switches operate independently without FortiGate firewalls. They function as standard network switches with built-in security features. However, you lose some integration benefits like unified management and automated threat response. The switches still provide network access control, basic threat detection, and VLAN functionality. Organizations using different firewall brands can still benefit from Fortinet switches, though the value proposition decreases somewhat without the full Security Fabric integration.

What is the warranty period for Fortinet switches?

Most Fortinet switches include a lifetime limited hardware warranty covering manufacturing defects. This warranty provides replacement for failed hardware during the product’s useful life. However, firmware updates and technical support require active support contracts. The lifetime warranty covers the original purchaser and may not transfer with equipment resale. Specific warranty terms vary by model, so verify details for your particular switch model before purchasing.

How difficult is it to configure Fortinet switches for beginners?

Configuration difficulty depends on your networking background. Administrators with general networking knowledge can handle basic setup using the web interface. Common tasks like VLAN creation and port configuration follow standard networking concepts. Advanced security features require more specialized knowledge. Fortinet provides extensive documentation and training resources to help beginners. Most users report becoming comfortable within a few weeks of regular use. Starting with simple configurations and gradually implementing advanced features helps ease the learning process.

Do Fortinet switches support link aggregation?

Yes, Fortinet switches fully support link aggregation using LACP protocol. Link aggregation combines multiple physical connections into a single logical link, increasing bandwidth and providing redundancy. You can aggregate up to eight ports depending on the model. The feature works with both copper and fiber connections. Static aggregation and dynamic LACP modes are both supported. Link aggregation proves useful when connecting switches together or connecting high-traffic servers that exceed single-port capacity.

Can I manage Fortinet switches remotely?

Remote management works through multiple methods. Web interface access requires network connectivity to the switch management IP. SSH provides command-line access from remote locations. FortiCloud enables management from anywhere with internet access without VPN requirements. Many organizations implement management VLANs separating administration traffic from user data. Out-of-band management through console servers provides access even during network failures. Proper security measures including strong passwords and potentially two-factor authentication protect remote access.

What happens to connected devices during a firmware update?

Firmware updates typically require switch reboots that briefly disconnect all devices. Most updates complete within 10-15 minutes of total downtime. Proper planning schedules updates during maintenance windows to minimize disruption. In stacked configurations, some implementations allow rolling updates where one switch updates while others maintain connectivity. Critical environments often deploy redundant switches to maintain connectivity during maintenance. Always review release notes before updating, as some major firmware changes may require extended maintenance windows or special procedures.

Last update on 2026-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API