FORTIGATE-60F SETUP GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIME USERS

FortiGate-60F Setup Guide for First-Time Users

FortiGate-60F Setup Guide for First-Time Users

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Setting up a FortiGate-60F for the first time can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. As a next-generation firewall (NGFW), the FortiGate-60F offers a wide range of features designed to protect your network from cyber threats, manage bandwidth, and ensure safe connectivity. For first-time users, the setup process may seem complex, but with a step-by-step guide, you'll be able to configure it in no time.

In this FortiGate-60F setup guide, we will walk you through the process from unboxing to configuration, ensuring your firewall is ready to secure your network and devices.

Step 1: Unboxing and Hardware Setup


Before diving into the configuration, let’s start with the hardware setup.

What’s Inside the Box:



  • FortiGate-60F Unit

  • Power Adapter

  • Ethernet Cable

  • Quick Start Guide (useful for general instructions)


Setting Up the Hardware:



  1. Connect the Power Supply: Plug in the power adapter to the FortiGate-60F unit and connect it to a power source.

  2. Connect the Ethernet Cable: Use the included Ethernet cable to connect the WAN port on the FortiGate-60F to your modem or router. This will serve as your internet connection.

  3. Connect LAN Devices: For local network connectivity, use additional Ethernet cables to connect devices (like computers, printers, or switches) to the LAN ports of the FortiGate-60F.


Once the hardware is set up, proceed to the next step, which is the initial configuration.

Step 2: Initial Configuration via Web Interface


The FortiGate-60F uses a web-based interface for easy configuration. To access it, follow these steps:

Step 2.1: Access the Web Interface



  1. Connect to the Device: Ensure your computer is connected to one of the LAN ports of the FortiGate-60F.

  2. Open a Web Browser: Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox) and type the default IP address: https://192.168.1.99. This is the default address for accessing the FortiGate-60F’s admin interface.

  3. Login: The default username is admin, and the default password is empty (no password). After logging in, you will be prompted to change the password for security purposes.


Step 2.2: Change the Administrator Password



  1. Once logged in, go to System > Admin > Administrators.

  2. Click Edit next to the admin user and set a strong password to secure your device.


Step 2.3: Set the Date and Time


Setting the correct date and time is essential for accurate logging and event tracking. You can configure the date and time settings under System > Settings > Time Zone.

  • Choose your time zone and enable NTP (Network Time Protocol) to synchronize the time automatically with an external server.


Step 3: Configuring the Internet Connection


Now that you’re logged in and secure, it’s time to configure your internet connection by setting up the WAN interface.

Step 3.1: Configure WAN Settings



  1. Go to Network > Interfaces.

  2. Click on the WAN interface (usually labeled as wan1).

  3. Set the Addressing mode to DHCP (if you’re using a dynamic IP from your ISP) or Static IP (if your ISP provided you with a static IP).

    • For DHCP, the FortiGate will automatically receive an IP address.

    • For Static IP, enter the IP address, subnet mask, and gateway provided by your ISP.




Step 3.2: Set up LAN Configuration



  1. Under Network > Interfaces, click on LAN (usually labeled as lan1).

  2. Set the IP address and Subnet Mask for your local network. The default IP address is 192.168.1.1, but you can change it according to your network requirements.

  3. Enable the DHCP Server if you want the FortiGate-60F to assign IP addresses to devices on the LAN automatically.


Step 3.3: Save Changes


Click OK to save the WAN and LAN settings.

Step 4: Configuring Firewall Policies


The FortiGate-60F is designed to protect your network by filtering traffic between different zones (such as WAN and LAN). You’ll need to create firewall policies to control the flow of traffic.

Step 4.1: Configure Firewall Policies



  1. Navigate to Policy & Objects > IPv4 Policy.

  2. Click Create New to add a new firewall policy.

  3. Define the Source Interface/Zone (typically LAN) and the Destination Interface/Zone (typically WAN).

  4. Set the Action to Accept and enable NAT (Network Address Translation).

  5. Click OK to save the policy.


This basic policy allows traffic from your LAN to the internet.

Step 4.2: Testing the Internet Connection


To test that the firewall is allowing traffic through, try browsing the web from a device connected to the LAN. If successful, your internet connection is up and running.

Step 5: Configuring Security Features


Now that your basic setup is complete, it’s time to configure the security features that FortiGate is known for. This includes features like IPS, antivirus, web filtering, and application control.

Step 5.1: Enabling Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)



  1. Go to Security Profiles > Intrusion Prevention.

  2. Enable IPS and choose a profile (e.g., Recommended IPS).

  3. Apply this profile to your firewall policy under Policy & Objects.


Step 5.2: Enabling Web Filtering



  1. Go to Security Profiles > Web Filter.

  2. Enable Web Filter and choose a filter profile (e.g., Default).

  3. Apply the profile to your firewall policy.


Step 5.3: Enabling Antivirus Protection



  1. Go to Security Profiles > Antivirus.

  2. Enable Antivirus and select the default profile.

  3. Apply it to your firewall policy.


Step 5.4: Application Control



  1. Go to Security Profiles > Application Control.

  2. Enable Application Control and select the default profile.

  3. Apply it to your firewall policy.


Step 6: Testing Security and Monitoring


Once you have configured security profiles, it’s essential to monitor and test the system to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

Step 6.1: Monitor Traffic



  1. Navigate to Monitor > Traffic Log to see real-time logs of your network traffic and firewall activity.

  2. Review these logs regularly to ensure that the firewall is blocking malicious activity and allowing legitimate traffic.


Step 6.2: Test Security Features


You can test the effectiveness of your IPS, web filtering, and antivirus features by attempting to access restricted sites or downloading a test virus.

Step 7: Saving and Backing Up Your Configuration


It’s important to save and back up your configuration to avoid losing settings in case of a device restart.

Step 7.1: Backup Your Configuration



  1. Go to System > Config > Backup.

  2. Click Backup and download the configuration file to your computer for safekeeping.


Conclusion


Setting up the FortiGate-60F for the first time may seem complex, but following these steps ensures that your device is up and running smoothly, providing robust protection for your network. With its powerful security features, ease of use, and scalability, the FortiGate-60F is a fantastic choice for businesses of all sizes looking to enhance their network security. Now that your firewall is configured, you can rest easy knowing your business is protected from a wide range of cyber threats.

As a worldwide IT solutions provider, System Integrator supports business and public organizations. Buy Cisco routers, switches, and additional IT products with us.

 

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