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Handbook

Getting started

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Getting started

This guide explains how to get started with a FortiGate, and examines basic configuration tasks and best practices.

Differences between models

Before you get started, note that not all FortiGate models have the same features. This is especially true of the desktop or entry-level models: FortiGate / FortiWiFi models 30 to 90. If you are using one of these FortiGate models, you may have some difficulties accessing certain features.

The entry-level, or desktop, models can connect to the internet in two simple steps. They also have a number of features that are only available using the CLI, rather than appearing in the GUI.

note icon Consult your model's Quick Start Guide, hardware manual, or the Feature / Platform Matrix for further information about features that vary by model.

FortiGate models differ principally by the names used and the features available:

  • Naming conventions may vary between FortiGate models. For example, on some models the hardware switch interface used for the local area network is called lan, while on other units it is called internal.
  • Certain features are not available on all models. Additionally, a particular feature may be available only through the CLI on some models, while that same feature may be viewed in the GUI on other models.

If you believe your FortiGate model supports a feature that does not appear in the GUI, go to System > Feature Visibility and confirm that the feature is enabled. For more information, see Feature Visibility.

Getting started

This guide explains how to get started with a FortiGate, and examines basic configuration tasks and best practices.

Differences between models

Before you get started, note that not all FortiGate models have the same features. This is especially true of the desktop or entry-level models: FortiGate / FortiWiFi models 30 to 90. If you are using one of these FortiGate models, you may have some difficulties accessing certain features.

The entry-level, or desktop, models can connect to the internet in two simple steps. They also have a number of features that are only available using the CLI, rather than appearing in the GUI.

note icon Consult your model's Quick Start Guide, hardware manual, or the Feature / Platform Matrix for further information about features that vary by model.

FortiGate models differ principally by the names used and the features available:

  • Naming conventions may vary between FortiGate models. For example, on some models the hardware switch interface used for the local area network is called lan, while on other units it is called internal.
  • Certain features are not available on all models. Additionally, a particular feature may be available only through the CLI on some models, while that same feature may be viewed in the GUI on other models.

If you believe your FortiGate model supports a feature that does not appear in the GUI, go to System > Feature Visibility and confirm that the feature is enabled. For more information, see Feature Visibility.