Fortigate 120G vs 200G: A Reliable Next-Gen Firewall Solution for Mid-Sized Businesses

Key Specifications Comparison

When comparing the FortiGate 120G and 200G, several key performance metrics stand out.

The FortiGate 120G offers up to 2.8 Gbps of threat throughput, 5.3 Gbps of intrusion prevention system (IPS) throughput, and 3.1 Gbps of next-generation firewall (NGFW) throughput. It features multiple GE RJ45, SFP, and 10GE SFP+ Slots Variants with internal storage. On the other hand, the FortiGate 200G delivers significantly higher performance, with up to 6 Gbps of threat throughput, 9 Gbps of IPS throughput, and 7 Gbps of NGFW throughput. It can handle up to 11 million concurrent sessions and includes a higher port density.

When evaluating VPN capacity, the Fortigate 120G's IPsec VPN Throughput (512 byte) is 35 Gbps,,while the Fortigate 200G's IPsec VPN Throughput (512 byte) is 36 Gbps . This feature is vital for companies with remote workforces or multiple branch offices, allowing secure connections without compromising performance.

While both models offer high-speed performance and strong security, FortiGate 200G delivers significantly higher throughput and greater scalability—ideal for environments with heavy traffic and complex infrastructure. The 120G, on the other hand, is more cost-efficient and well-suited for branch offices or smaller data centers.

Key Security Features

When considering the Fortigate 120G and 200G models, it is essential to evaluate the key security features that both units offer to mid-sized businesses. These next-generation firewalls are designed to provide robust protection against a range of cyber threats, making them vital components of any organizational security strategy.

One of the standout features of both Fortigate models is the Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), which is crucial for detecting and mitigating attacks in real-time. The IPS inspects incoming and outgoing traffic, identifying threats based on known attack patterns and anomalous behavior. This capability helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches, ensuring that sensitive business information remains secure.

Additionally, both firewalls are equipped with advanced antivirus capabilities. By leveraging cloud-based intelligence and signature-based scanning, they effectively identify and neutralize malware before it can compromise the network. This feature is particularly important for mid-sized businesses that may be attractive targets for cybercriminals, allowing them to maintain operational integrity.

Web filtering is another critical component provided by the Fortigate 120G and 200G. This feature enables organizations to enforce internet usage policies by blocking access to harmful or inappropriate websites. It helps reduce the risk of users inadvertently downloading malware or visiting phishing sites while promoting productivity by restricting access to non-work-related online content.

Lastly, application control is an essential feature that allows security administrators to manage which applications can run on the network. This capability helps prevent the misuse of corporate resources and protects against unauthorized applications that could introduce vulnerabilities. By employing such comprehensive security measures, Fortigate firewalls contribute to a layered security posture that is indispensable for mid-sized businesses.

Use Case Scenarios

In the realm of mid-sized businesses, selecting an appropriate network security solution is critical for safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining operational efficiency. The Fortigate 120G and 200G firewalls offer tailored functionalities that cater to various use case scenarios, making them viable options for companies facing distinct security challenges.

For instance, a mid-sized financial institution handling sensitive customer information could significantly benefit from the high-performance capabilities of the Fortigate 200G. This firewall can efficiently manage extensive network traffic while enforcing stringent security policies. Its robust intrusion prevention system (IPS) and advanced threat protection would effectively mitigate risks from internal and external threats, ensuring client trust and regulatory compliance.

On the other hand, a retail organization operating a chain of stores might find the Fortigate 120G to be a more suitable fit. This firewall offers essential security features designed to protect the point-of-sale systems that handle customer transactions. By providing comprehensive visibility into network traffic, the 120G can help retailers identify and resolve vulnerabilities connected to payment processing quickly, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches.

Moreover, both firewall models are equipped to support a range of deployment architectures. For a mid-sized manufacturing company looking to connect multiple sites securely through a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the Fortigate firewalls excel by maintaining reliable connectivity and data integrity between diverse locations. These use cases demonstrate the adaptability of the Fortigate 120G and 200G in handling varying demands across multiple industries while ensuring robust security and operational efficiency.

These examples underline the effectiveness of Fortigate’s firewall solutions in addressing specific network environments and security challenges faced by mid-sized businesses today.

Flexibility & Cloud-Ready Management

Modern mid-sized businesses require network security solutions that are not only effective but also adaptable to changing environments and technologies. Both the Fortigate 120G and 200G models provide a versatile firewall solution that supports the integration of cloud services and facilitates hybrid infrastructure management. The flexibility offered by these models allows businesses to respond swiftly to evolving security needs while maximizing the advantages of cloud technologies.

The management interfaces of the Fortigate 120G and 200G are designed with user experience in mind. Both models feature a unified management console that centralizes security management tasks, simplifying the administrative process. Organizations can efficiently configure, monitor, and manage their security postures across multiple environments, including on-premises and cloud. This centralization is crucial for businesses looking to maintain a robust security framework without overwhelming their IT teams.

Deployment of Fortigate firewalls is relatively straightforward, allowing organizations to get up and running quickly. The cloud-ready capabilities of both models enable seamless integration with various cloud service providers, whether private, public, or hybrid. By supporting technologies such as APIs, businesses can automate workflows and enhance operational efficiency. Furthermore, scalability is a key characteristic of these firewalls, as they can adapt to existing infrastructure changes and increasing network demands without significant investment in additional hardware.

Ongoing administration of Fortigate firewalls is equally manageable. The models offer advanced reporting and analytics tools, providing detailed insights into network traffic and potential threats. This visibility helps businesses make informed decisions regarding security policies and adjustments. Overall, the flexibility and cloud-ready management features of the Fortigate 120G and 200G models ensure that mid-sized businesses can effectively safeguard their network while leveraging the benefits offered by cloud technologies.