---
title: FortiOS Reviews
meta_title: 'FortiOS Reviews 2026: Details, Pricing, & Features | G2'
meta_description: Filter 49 reviews by the users' company size, role or industry to
  find out how FortiOS works for a business like yours.
aggregate_rating:
  rating_value: 4.3
  review_count: 49
  scale: '5'
date_modified: '2026-06-24'
parent_category:
  name: IT Infrastructure
  url: https://www.g2.com/categories/it-infrastructure
---

# FortiOS Reviews
**Vendor:** Fortinet  
**Category:** [Operating Systems](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)  
**Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0  
**Total Reviews:** 49
## About FortiOS
FortiOS is Fortinet&#39;s proprietary operating system that serves as the foundation of the Fortinet Security Fabric, delivering integrated security and networking capabilities across various environments, including on-premises, cloud, hybrid, and converging IT/OT/IoT infrastructures. By enabling the convergence of security and networking, FortiOS helps close security gaps and simplifies management, ensuring consistent user experiences and unified security policies. Key Features and Functionality: - Unified Operating System: FortiOS provides consistent security policies and enforcement across the entire network. - Centralized Management Platform: FortiManager simplifies security management, offering comprehensive network visibility and control. - Integrated Endpoint Protection: FortiClient delivers telemetry, visibility, control, and protection for endpoints. - Unified Data Platform: Streamlines threat detection, investigation, and response, facilitating faster decision-making. - Quantum-Safe Encryption: Enables quantum-resistant cryptography to protect against future quantum threats. - AI-Powered Security: FortiAI assists NOC and SOC teams with quicker decision-making and more efficient operations. - Managed Services: Offers management services to alleviate the burden on NOC and SOC teams, addressing the cybersecurity skills gap. - Enhanced Data Protection: Ensures sensitive information remains secure across hybrid networks. - Advanced Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Utilizes AI/ML-powered IPS engine to detect and stop sophisticated threats proactively. Primary Value and Solutions Provided: FortiOS addresses the challenges of managing complex and diverse network environments by integrating security and networking functions into a single, cohesive platform. This integration reduces complexity, enhances security posture, and improves operational efficiency. By offering a unified operating system with centralized management, FortiOS enables organizations to enforce consistent security policies, gain comprehensive visibility, and respond swiftly to threats. The inclusion of AI-driven capabilities and quantum-safe encryption ensures that organizations are equipped to handle both current and emerging security challenges effectively.



## FortiOS Pros & Cons
**What users like:**

- Users value the **ease of use** in FortiOS, making setup and management convenient across multiple devices. (8 reviews)
- Users value the **easy management** of FortiOS, highlighting its convenience for setup, monitoring, and integration. (4 reviews)
- Users appreciate the **robust security features** of FortiOS, ensuring fast transactions while maintaining top-notch protection against threats. (4 reviews)
- Users value the **comprehensive security functions** of FortiOS, ensuring safe and fast transactions with zero delays. (4 reviews)
- Users find FortiOS **user-friendly** , enjoying its intuitive design and ease of use across multiple devices. (4 reviews)
- Users value the **easy installation** of FortiOS, allowing for quick setup and seamless network integration. (3 reviews)
- Users value the **easy setup** of FortiOS, appreciating its straightforward and hassle-free maintenance process. (2 reviews)
- Reliability (2 reviews)
- Speed/Performance (2 reviews)
- User Interface (2 reviews)

**What users dislike:**

- Users find the **unfriendly interface** of FortiOS complex, making navigation difficult for new users and occasional frustration. (3 reviews)
- Users find the **command line interface cumbersome** , needing it for advanced settings and better control over logs. (2 reviews)
- Users face **integration issues** with FortiOS due to its proprietary nature, complicating connections with third-party options. (2 reviews)
- Users are concerned about **serious security vulnerabilities** and stress the need for improved cloud integration in FortiOS. (2 reviews)
- Users find the **high cost** of FortiOS to be a significant barrier to adoption and integration challenges. (1 reviews)
- Users find the **complex menu** of FortiOS time-consuming to navigate, impacting their overall experience. (1 reviews)
- Users find **FortiOS outdated** due to reliance on CLI for advanced settings and confusing logs. (1 reviews)
- Performance Issues (1 reviews)
- Users find the **graphics and display outdated** , wishing for a more modern and appealing visual experience. (1 reviews)
- Poor UI/UX (1 reviews)

## FortiOS Reviews
  ### 1. All-in-One Networking & Cybersecurity Platform That Strengthens Architecture.

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Javier C. | Full Stack developer, Education Management, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** June 08, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It works good about the security and devices combines networking and cybersecurity functions into one, and that is so useful because now you have it on a platform, without any problem, it can help for a better architecture.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Well, the cost is a little high; however, the complex upgrades will take you to a learning curve to use it, and the use of the feature to explore and use it will take some time to explore all the potential of this tool. because it is not so easy to use.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

The security includes SSL, URL filters and application control to monitor the security, to maintain inspection always.  So you do not have to worry about it.

  ### 2. FortiOS Delivers Strong Visibility, Control, and Stable Day-to-Day Security

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Computer & Network Security | Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** June 06, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

What I like best about FortiOS is the visibility and control it provides over network traffic. In our FortiGate 70G deployment, features such as IPS, web filtering, application control, and VPN management are all available through a single interface. Policy management is straightforward, and the real-time logs are useful for troubleshooting and monitoring security events. The platform has been stable and performs well for our day-to-day security operations.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

What I dislike about FortiOS is that some advanced configurations require CLI access and can have a learning curve for administrators who are new to the platform. During firmware upgrades, we also spend extra time reviewing release notes and compatibility considerations before deployment. In addition, certain troubleshooting scenarios can involve navigating multiple menus and logs before identifying the root cause.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS is helping us secure internet-facing services, manage VPN connectivity, and enforce security policies from a central platform. In our FortiGate 70G deployment, it provides visibility into network traffic and helps identify unwanted or risky activity through features such as IPS and web filtering. This has improved our security posture while reducing the effort required to manage multiple standalone security tools. The centralized management approach also makes day-to-day administration more efficient.

  ### 3. Intuitive Single-Pane Management with Powerful Native ZTNA and Secure SD-WAN

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Daniel D. | Global Director of Technology, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 21, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Beyond performance, the platform is highly valued for its intuitive management and native feature set. It simplifies administrative workflows through a centralized "single-pane-of-glass" interface, ensuring consistent policy enforcement across the entire infrastructure. Unlike many competitors that require add-on licenses for basic modern networking, FortiOS includes advanced capabilities like Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Secure SD-WAN natively. This holistic approach not only strengthens an organization's security posture against emerging threats—including post-quantum risks—but also provides a superior performance-to-cost ratio by consolidating multiple point products into one efficient ecosystem.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

A common point of frustration involves software stability and the update cycle. In the push to lead the market with new features like AI-driven security and SD-WAN, earlier releases of major firmware versions have been known to carry bugs that can affect production environments. This often forces IT teams to wait for several "patch releases" before upgrading, leading to a cautious and sometimes tedious lifecycle management process. Furthermore, while the performance is exceptional when using Fortinet’s proprietary hardware, the licensing model and the cost of maintaining the various security subscriptions (like FortiGuard services) can scale quickly, making it a significant ongoing investment for smaller organizations.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS addresses the significant challenge of infrastructure fragmentation by consolidating disparate security and networking functions into a single, unified operating system. In modern environments where managing separate tools for firewalls, SD-WAN, and zero-trust access often leads to visibility gaps and "console fatigue," this platform provides a centralized management framework. By streamlining these services, it allows for more consistent policy enforcement across the entire network, ensuring that security protocols are identical whether data is moving through a local branch or a complex cloud environment.

  ### 4. FortiOS: User-Friendly GUI, Easy Deployment, and Reliable Performance

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Dilhang N. | Cyber Security Engineer, Information Technology and Services, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** May 06, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

I have almost four years of experience with FortiOS, and the best thing about it is its GUI, which is very user-friendly and easy to use. Compared to other firewalls, it’s straightforward to deploy, administer, and configure. Overall, it’s a very reliable firewall.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Frequently vulnerabilities arises, so you end up needing to upgrade the firewall. The hardest part is finding a stable version to upgrade to.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Since the frequent vulnerabilities were related to the SSL VPN, they removed the SSL VPN and replaced it with ZTNA or an IPSEC VPN.

  ### 5. FortiOS: Unified Security Fabric with High Performance and Rich Features

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Ratish K. | System Administrator, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 12, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The standout thing about FortiOS is how unified it is. It ties together networking, security, and management in one operating system, which makes Fortinet’s devices feel more cohesive than many competitors’.

Here are a few highlights most people appreciate:

Integrated Security Fabric: It connects firewalls, switches, access points, and endpoints under a single management and policy framework, which simplifies complex networks.
Performance and efficiency: FortiOS is built on Fortinet’s custom ASIC hardware (like NP and CP processors), so it can handle deep inspection and threat prevention at high speeds.
Rich feature set: It combines next‑gen firewall, SD‑WAN, IPS, VPN, and web filtering capabilities without needing a lot of add‑ons.
Centralized visibility: The GUI and FortiAnalyzer/FortiManager integrations give solid visibility into traffic, users, and threats.
Automation and AI: Newer versions include automated playbooks and FortiAI-driven threat detection—useful for reducing manual response time.
What context are you thinking about—enterprise deployment, lab testing, or just general curiosity? I can tailor the details (e.g., best features for SD‑WAN vs. security operations).

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Common Things People Dislike About FortiOS
1. GUI Inconsistency Between Versions
Fortinet frequently changes the layout, naming, or locations of options in the GUI.
This makes upgrading feel like learning a new interface each time.
Examples:

WAN configuration placement changed between versions
Policy views & SD‑WAN menus keep moving
Logging options get renamed or relocated


2. Some Features Are Only Fully Usable via CLI
Even though the GUI is good, certain advanced settings require CLI commands.
Admins often complain about needing CLI for:

Complex SD‑WAN rules
Detailed session control
Deep debugging
Advanced routing tweaks


3. SD‑WAN Can Be Confusing for New Users
FortiOS SD‑WAN is powerful but feels complex, especially when combining:

SD‑WAN rules
Performance SLAs
Health checks
Policy routes
Firewall policies referencing SD‑WAN zones

Many users say SD‑WAN in FortiOS is “too many steps for a simple thing.”

4. Frequent Upgrades Required to Avoid Bugs
FortiOS occasionally introduces bugs in new builds (like SSL-VPN issues, Web Filter crashes, HA failover glitches).
Admins often wait for “mature” releases.

5. SSL‑VPN Performance Issues on Lower Models
On mid- or entry-level FortiGate units, SSL‑VPN can:

Max out CPU
Drop throughput significantly
Become unstable with many users

IPSec is generally better but requires more setup.

6. Licensing Complexity
Fortinet licensing is not terrible, but:

Many features are bundled (not modular)
Multiple license types (UTM, Enterprise, 360 Protection, Zero Trust)
Fabric Agent integrations are confusing for new users


7. Logs Can Become Overwhelming
FortiOS generates a massive amount of logs.
Finding the exact log you want sometimes feels like hunting through noise.
While FortiAnalyzer helps, it adds cost.

8. FortiCloud & Remote Management Lag
FortiCloud is convenient but sometimes:

Feels slow
Has session drops
Syncs late
GUI elements don't load quickly

This frustrates remote administrators.

9. HA Failover Behavior Can Be Tricky
High-availability clusters work well, but:

Config sync can fail silently
Interface monitoring must be tuned
SD‑WAN failover adds complexity
HA upgrades require careful planning


10. Not All Features Are Intuitive
Examples:

Proxy-based vs flow-based confusion
Web Filter profiles vs DNS Filter vs Application Control
Implicit policies (hidden defaults)
Routing table behavior with SD‑WAN zones

This can be overwhelming for junior admins.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

✔ Less downtime
✔ Faster troubleshooting
✔ Stronger network security
✔ Easier branch connectivity
✔ Simplified firewall/VPN management
✔ Better visibility & reporting
✔ Less manual work
✔ Lower overall network management cost

  ### 6. Unified Security Fabric and Performance, but a Steep Learning Curve and Buggy Releases

**Rating:** 3.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Vasileios P. | Head of Cyber, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 15, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS is most praised for its unified Security Fabric, which integrates networking, security, and management (firewalls, switches, access points) into one cohesive operating system

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Based on user experiences and professional reviews, FortiOS is widely regarded as a top-tier, high-performance firewall operating system. At the same time, it is often criticized for having a steep learning curve, for buggy firmware releases, and for inconsistent customer support.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS is a comprehensive, AI-powered security operating system that forms the foundation of the Fortinet Security Fabric and addresses core challenges such as network complexity, fragmented security, and increasingly sophisticated threat landscapes. By bringing networking and security together within a single operating system, FortiOS helps organizations manage diverse environments—on-premises, hybrid, and cloud—through one unified policy framework.

  ### 7. All-in-One Security That Gets the Job Done

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Information Technology and Services | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 24, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

What I like most about FortiOS is that it offers an all-in-one security platform. It brings together the firewall, VPN, SD-WAN, web filtering, and intrusion prevention in a single system, which makes managing network security much more efficient and straightforward.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

One of the main drawbacks of FortiOS is that its user interface can feel confusing, especially for new users. Moving through the settings isn’t always intuitive, and tracking down specific configurations can take longer than expected.

Another challenge is that many advanced features still require CLI access. This can be difficult for teams that would rather manage everything through a fully GUI-based experience.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS helps us consolidate multiple security and networking functions into a single platform, so we don’t need separate tools for the firewall, VPN, SD-WAN, and web filtering. This streamlines our setup and reduces both complexity and day-to-day operational overhead.

It also strengthens our overall security posture by delivering real-time threat protection through IPS, antivirus, and web filtering. As a result, we can proactively block malicious traffic and better reduce security risks.

  ### 8. Easy Deployment and Backup with a Straightforward Setup

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Nisarahmed S. | Network Engineer ||, Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 30, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It’s easy to deploy and to back up the configuration. It’s also straightforward to understand, explore, and get familiar with.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

It needs to be updated with every new release, and any bugs should be resolved.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It’s easy to manage through the GUI, and the configuration is straightforward to understand. Upgrades also take less time.

  ### 9. Frequent Firmware Updates, Bugs, and Performance Issues Hold It Back

**Rating:** 1.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Ash B. | Director of IT, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 28, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It’s easy to use and cost-effective, and the support team is responsive.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Constant firmware updates seem to be needed because of careless coding, ongoing bugs, and vulnerabilities. Performance also sometimes suffers.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

They offer a full line of networking equipment that can either integrate with, or replace, some of the larger, more expensive brands.

  ### 10. Ease and Security in Network

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Juan  T. | DevOps, Computer Software, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 31, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The best part is the interface, which allows me to easily manage my rules and my Forti devices.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The difficult part sometimes is having a bit more detailed documentation or having some example for configurations.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Help manage the rules and distribution of resources; also, allow managing security.

  ### 11. Unified Dashboard Makes Management Effortless

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Nisar A. | System Analyst, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 09, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS brings together all Fortinet products into a single, unified dashboard, making it easy to manage all settings from one place.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The menu is quite complex and takes a considerable amount of time to navigate.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS offers a unified and efficient security platform that addresses the difficulties of managing separate tools by integrating firewall, VPN, SD-WAN, and threat protection into a single system. Thanks to its ASIC-accelerated performance, I can activate deep inspection and advanced security features without experiencing any network slowdowns. The dependable VPN and built-in ZTNA significantly strengthen remote access security. Additionally, the centralized visibility, real-time monitoring, and seamless integration with switches and access points make daily operations and troubleshooting much simpler. In summary, FortiOS boosts security, streamlines complexity, and enhances network stability, making it a highly effective solution for today’s enterprise environments.

  ### 12. Handy TAB Auto-Complete Makes Command Syntax Easy

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Tariq T. | IT security consultant - مستشار أمن المعلومات, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 15, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

You can get a hint for the next word in a command by pressing the TAB key. This can help you remember the correct command syntax.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

It’s somewhat hard to learn at first, but there’s always help available when I need it.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It helps me configure the Fortigate firewall and the Forti analyzer device, making the setup process clearer and easier to manage.

  ### 13. Efficient Module Integration, Especially Fortigate with ZTNA

**Rating:** 3.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Gibrain  S. | information security engineer, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** May 05, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Integration with different modules from the manufacturer—for example, Fortigate with ZTNA—makes it very efficient

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

What's not intuitive is that it's a bit complicated to understand how to configure a firewall compared to other manufacturers

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

In terms of perimeter security, it is quite effective and also offers good value for money.

  ### 14. Unmatched Reliability and Efficiency with FortiOS

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Amar K. | IT Manager, Media Production, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 09, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS stands out as the most reliable and efficient firewall operating system I have used, thanks to its unified security features, consistent performance, and user-friendly interface.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Some settings in the GUI are not very intuitive, and to access the full range of features, I sometimes have to switch to the CLI for greater control.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

By bringing together security, VPN, and SD-WAN within a single operating system, it streamlines our processes, cuts down on complexity, and enhances the overall protection of our network.

  ### 15. Fortios experience

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Nikunj K. | Consultant, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** October 11, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS is quite stable. I have been using FortiOS and FortiGate UTM for nearly 14 years now.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The terminal window is not very intuitive to use. I believe Fortisos should consider making it more dynamic. However, I understand that since the focus is on security, they may have chosen to keep it this way.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

I have been using it on UTM, and it serves as an excellent gateway to the internet.

  ### 16. Network Best solution UTM work for Large SME

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Computer & Network Security | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 28, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Its a Utm firewall Operating system or firmware os setup to control ISP and network according to organisation requirment

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

no I don't dislike this product its user friendly

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

managing large network environment isp load balancing 
network vlan structured ipsec tunnel,Ssl VPN web filtering application filtering..etc

  ### 17. Easy to Manage, Cost-Effective NGFW Choice

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Zahid A. | Senior Network Security Engineer, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 29, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Easy to manage
Economical option in NGFW category

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

There’s no option to save the configuration or commit changes; if you modify anything, it gets applied immediately.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

A solid next-generation firewall with an enhanced feature set that helps secure the organization.

  ### 18. FortiOS is great for our network.

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Rick J. | Testing Assistant, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** October 13, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

What I appreciate most about FortiOS is how convenient it makes it for me to set up, monitor, and modify my FortiAPs and how easy it was to integrate them with my network. This ease of management is what I find most valuable.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

As someone relatively new to networking and transitioning from a different brand of firewalls, I found there was a bit of a learning curve.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

As a one-person IT department, I find that FortiOS takes care of many of my routine tasks with ease. It manages and operates my network smoothly, which really helps simplify my work.

  ### 19. Reliable Security and Seamless Integration for Network Management

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Daniel H. | Cloud Enginner, Telecommunications, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 09, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The platform offers reliable firewall and VPN features that simplify network management while keeping threats under control. Its integration with other Fortinet products makes it an excellent choice for organizations seeking a complete security ecosystem. Excellent tool and OS.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The interface can sometimes be complex and overwhelming, especially for new users who are unfamiliar with network security tools.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It simplifies network security management in a unified and efficient way. It integrates firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention, and web filtering into a single platform, reducing the need for multiple tools. This simplifies administration, reduces costs, and strengthens overall threat protection.

  ### 20. Comprehensive and high-performance security platform, Fortinet integration at its best

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Computer & Network Security | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** January 07, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS offers a very comprehensive and consistent security platform. I particularly appreciate the functional richness (firewall, VPN, IPS, web filtering) centralized in a single interface, as well as the good performance and native integration with the Fortinet ecosystem.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The interface can be complex for beginners, and some advanced configurations require good technical proficiency. Managing updates and licenses can also be restrictive, and the documentation is not always sufficiently clear on complex cases.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS allows for effective network security against threats (intrusions, malware, unauthorized access) while providing precise control over traffic and VPN access. This improves overall security, network visibility, and compliance, while simplifying daily administration.

  ### 21. Meets Our Organization’s Requirements Perfectly

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Bhoopendra S. | Chief Information Officer, Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 21, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It is serving the orgnization requirements

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

I never felt which we can dislike in it.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It converges networking and security into a unified, high-performance platform to enable consistent security policies

  ### 22. Outstanding Security Features and Access Control

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Rafael M. | Systems Analyst, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** October 23, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

What I love most about the system is that it has several excellent security features. It allows for excellent access control management, intrusion prevention, and more.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

I didn't find anything significant that would harm the usability of the system, one suggestion would be to improve whitelist management.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

IIt helps us solve various problems related to the security of our network, such as: threats during web browsing, vulnerability exploits, API protection and much more.

  ### 23. Comprehensive Fabric Integration with an Intuitive, User-Friendly Interface

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Jossy V. | Technical Analyst, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 11, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The software offers comprehensive fabric integration and features an intuitive GUI, making it easy to use and efficient for my needs.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

There are serious security vulnerabilities and problems with FortiClient that need to be addressed.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It provides strong security for our IT infrastructure and allows for centralized management.

  ### 24. Simple Unified Platform for Network Security

**Rating:** 3.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Information Technology and Services | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** January 23, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

I like that all the security functions are in one place, and in a way that is familiar for software developers. I've had no performance issues, and fortimanager was easy to use as well. It integrated perfectly with fortimanager and other fortinet products without issue. I didn't have to use the customer support personally, but the documentation was enough to solve all our issues.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

I think licensing and cost are some complexities to adoption, but I didn't directly deal with this. It's also proprietary software so it's less easy to integrate with 3rd party options.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

I’m running SDWan security.

  ### 25. Continuous Updates and Top-Notch Cyber Threat Protection

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Jeffrey K. | VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 27, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

PROFESSIONAL USES SUPPORTS CONTINUOUS UPDATES TO PROTECT FROM CYBER THREATS.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

THERE IS A NEED FOR BETTER SECURITY AND CLOUD INTEGRATION.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

PROFESSIONAL USES COMBINE UNIFIED SECURITY PLATFORM INTO ONE PLATFORM.

  ### 26. Easy and Effective: A Flawless Experience

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Antonello F. | ict manager, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 09, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The interface is easy to use and efficient, and the cloud service works well.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

I don't find it difficult to manage the firewall system.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

The perimeter security is solid, and the external access client meets compliance requirements.

  ### 27. FortiOS

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Information Technology and Services | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** February 05, 2026

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The user interface is easy to understand, and everything is easy to find.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Currently, I don’t have any dislikes. Right now, I’ve just joined the organization as a trainee, and I haven’t yet gone through FortiOS or its configuration.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It’s really easy to add security policies in FortiOS, and it also provides the required security policies.

  ### 28. Great Security and Easy Rule Creation

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Danilo D. | Technical Support Analyst, Government Administration, Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** October 15, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The security and ease of creating rules that the system offers

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The logs are very limited, not generating very clear reports for end users.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

The trust, stability and support that the system offers

  ### 29. Fort iOS what a great system

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Maria Isabel C. | Member Services Customer Service, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** September 16, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

One of the best things I like about Fort iOS is the threat prevention, and simplified management

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Nothing so far, I haven't found anything I dislike

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It is assuring security. closing the gaps to avoid any failure on our operating system securrity

  ### 30. FortiOS review

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Oil & Energy | Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** August 26, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS is simple to use, it runs on all devices so once you learn it on a single device you will be able to use it on multiple devices

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The look and feel are a bit outdated, needs more graphic

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

learn it once and apply it everywhere

  ### 31. The best OOBE and ease of use

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Daniel S. | network engineer, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** July 09, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The straight forward no hustle setup and maintenance

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Too easy to learn! my job will be obsolete soon

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

one GUI to govern them all!

  ### 32. Best User - Friendly Security Features

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Jose S. | Sysadmin Mid, Information Technology and Services, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** February 12, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

- Even if you are novice on IT, you can manage / configure it
- Easy to find documentation / forums to find any setting you need
- Forti has a family of features / devices / services you can integrate it with to be able to expand the capabilities

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

- Some advanced settings you must to do it on CLI
- The logs are not easy to understand at first glance

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

- IPsec VPN
- InterVlan Routing
- DPI
- WebFilter
- AD Integrated Security Features
- DHCP
- NTP Server
- Network Policies

  ### 33. Firewall administator with FortiGate experience

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Admin Department Rockholm Resort A. | IT Manager, Hospitality, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** May 26, 2025

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

User friendly
Easy installation
Customer Support

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Pricing and license cost
Mac Binding in WiFi

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Load balancing

  ### 34. FortiOS Review

**Rating:** 3.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Computer Games | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 30, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It connects you to the core center while you are managing your infrastructure with FortiOS. It's bright and intelligent and sends you notifications for updates and upgrades.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

There is a prompt popup when you login to your Fortigates. It asks you to push the upgrade button when downloaded before. If you are not an experienced technical guy, you may do it immediately and impact the live service. It's better not to come up at the login time and show it as an icon in the top right corner.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Managing my Fortinet network along with applying many ACLs and policies. VPN for remote clients. Managed the WiFi devices and network. By doing all mentioned tasks, it is helping us to see the logs and configurations daily bases.

  ### 35. One of the best OS out there for network security needs.

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Rohit D. | SDE 3, Information Technology and Services, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 31, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Its  very comprehensive and easy-to-use operating systems out there. The interface is intuitive and user-friendly, and the level of customization it offers is outstanding.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

It is a bit expensive, particularly for small businesses or individuals. Also, FortiOS is not compatible with all types of hardware or software, which could be a problem for some users who have specific needs or requirements.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

For us, it was mainly shortlisted for network performance and compliance. It helped our business to maintain compliance by providing advanced security features that meet these requirements.
Another added benefit was its reporting capabilities - detailed reporting and analytics capabilities that allow us to monitor network performance, identify potential security risks, and make informed decisions about their network infrastructure.

  ### 36. FortiOs, a robust basic system

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Giovanni C. | SysAdm, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 31, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

An operating system adapted to the needs of the security devices that support it and constantly updated to maintain its inviolability, ensuring the security required in companies that adopt this solution

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Specific maintenance is a bit complex, as it often requires the intervention of the business partner, not always immediately available for commitments to other customers

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Ensures the proper functioning of all security architecture based on it, allowing the implementation of various modules, according to the needs of companies implementing Fortigate products

  ### 37. Review for FortiOS

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Chintan M. | Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** May 26, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It is imposing FortiOS, and it offers spam-free features to use. FortiOS site's blocking functionality is really outstanding, it is best os for high-threat prevention. We are impressed and use it on daily basis.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

There are some difficulties in upgrading FortiOS, it's not reliable across all platforms, and I am delighted with this.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

we are using this to protect our network and IT infrastructure from threats and spam attacks. We have complete control using FortiOS over all applications and systems.They offers relatively affordable licensing fees as compared to other OS.

  ### 38. Best firewall OS

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Saurabh S. | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 02, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It is all about all in one package. Best high performance threat protection, antivirus, web protection, best VPN, emails filtering and best OS for SD-WAN setup.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The functionality of url filtering in those problematic because everything is encrypted. But it is secured part. But sometimes it's irritating.Another concern we have is some elements for the user interface, if they're not properly configured.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS, the Fortinet network operating system, is the heart of the Fortinet Security Fabric. This operating system, or software, is at the core of the Security Fabric and ties all components together to ensure a tight integration across an organization's entire Fabric deployment.

  ### 39. FortiOS

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Yash V. | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 31, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS was ovious pick because it's simple to learn  and included with our firewall purchase. Early on, it became clear on that FirtiOS and security would speed up and simplify our move from our present antiquated platform

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Sometimes problems with upgrading and it becomes challenging also the most recent release is not typically stable on all platforms.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It's is helping our business for smooth and easy process and deployment. It is available on reasonable prices and any one companies can afford easily. Highly recommend

  ### 40. Robust and Powerful

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Telecommunications | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** December 14, 2022

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

The ease of use is the hallmark of FortiOS. The user interface is very intuitive. The UTM features are extensive.
Also initial setup is easy and can get you up and running pretty fast.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

There are quite a few features that are only accessible through the command line and are not readily reachable through the UI. I feel there is no point in leaving important features not easily accessible to the user like that.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Security of course. The solution is pretty robust and facilitates day-to-day security and provisioning tasks. Stability and reliability for us is an important asset.

  ### 41. The benefits of FortiOS

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Roy M. | Technicien informatique, Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 01, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Here are some features that you liked about FortiOS: scalability and predictable high throughput, authentication flexibility, CLI config, better OT features, network segregation, UTM, antivirus and freight management protection such as DDoS. The CLI and GUI are also easy to use and the architecture makes sense.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

I really enjoyed FortiOS I liked everything

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

The following issues which have been fixed in version 7.2 really help me such as the Anti-virus issue, DNs Filter, Firewall, Intrusion Prevention, Routing….

  ### 42. FortiOS technical review

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Computer & Network Security | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 30, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS provides great support to organisation mainly in security side like firewall protection, content filtering .setting up the FortiOS is easy and also they have good documentation.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

FortiOS features can be further improved . Their vendor support needs to quicker in resolving the issues . FortiOS configuration is also bit tricky when the network is vast .

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Mainly to maintain good security posture in the organisation . Using the security features provides greater visibility and helps to defend against threat actors

  ### 43. Fortios (Secured OS using Linux Platform)

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Kishore  K. | Team Lead, Information Technology and Services, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 31, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It's a good OS that will protect the system by using Linux Kernel and web application firewall

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Sometimes it will be slow in providing a firewall security

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

OS is very beneficial by helping us to secure our system with their Fortinet Security Fabric

  ### 44. FortiOS Review

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** abdulla A. | DBA, Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** April 02, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

It is more robust than SonicWall, particularly on the VPN from site to site.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

You can enable and disable specific modules in it. However, with disabling, nobody can tell us if that module is disabled.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

inbound and outbound traffic management

  ### 45. A product from world class cybersecurity product solution company

**Rating:** 2.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Security and Investigations | Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** March 30, 2023

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Ease of use for the user in term of good knowledge in Linux.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Rigid UI and is not giving frequent updates and as well not able to use function without knowledge of Linux.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Not process oriented like Windows. Easily accessible and useful os Linux.

  ### 46. Very competitive and a complete security product

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Naveed A. | Infrastructure Analyst, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** January 08, 2022

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Security fabric is what I like best. It's integration with all equipment of fortinet gives an overall view of what's happening in your environment. Especially forticlient ems integration and ztna tags sync with ems is a mention worthy feature.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

The thing I dislike most is when management vdom is in policy based NGFW mode, update daemon failed to get IP route and FDS update failed. When FGT 1101E's management vdom was configured to work at NGFW mode, it was observed that FDS update was failed with following error message. Same ngfw setup script applied to FGT-101F and FGT-80E_POE, FDS update works as expected. Currently only observed this issue on 1101E. Same issue observed on FGT_1101E of Robot lab 17-C.

**Recommendations to others considering FortiOS:**

This firewall presents all features in a box. Configuring VPN's to web based profiles, to setting up fsso. This is all in one solution for many companies.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

It's a all in one solution. Deploying fortigate in my environment is my best decision. It provides security against all kinds of threats, weather it be SSL based, antivirus, or IPS.

  ### 47. good product

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Verified User in Information Technology and Services | Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** May 11, 2022

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

FortiOS is very stable and works well across the entire Fortigate range as well as other Fortinet product lines.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

depending on the fortigate product versions, not all the options are available in the GUI, but all of them are available in the CLI
the commands may be different depending on the fortinet products.

**Recommendations to others considering FortiOS:**

YES

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

FortiOS allowed us to secure its internet and LAN access, to implement SD-WAN and SSL VPN, as well as to use all the web, DNS, and integrated filtering options available in FortiOS.

  ### 48. FortiOS is the best and cost effective OS to secure your Organization Infra.

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Muhammad U. | Database Developer, Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** September 02, 2021

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

These are  the good things about FortiOS:
1. The firewall provided by FortiOS is very impressive.
2. It provides a spamless environment.
3. The web filtering capability of Forti OS is just amazing.
4. It provides you super control on your application/System.
5. Their licensing cost is very less as compared to other OS.

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

These are some bad points about FortiOS:
1. Their Support team is not cooperative. They don't have enough technical knowledge about their product.
2. They didn't maintain documentation properly. 
3. It is difficult to configure in ready-made or existing network.

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Well, I used FortiOS in the defense sector.  We used FortiOS to overcome the threats to critical information. Their firewall provides Intrusion -free browsing.

  ### 49. FortiOS

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

**Reviewed by:** Jakub G. | Administrator systemów i sieci, Enterprise (> 1000 emp.)

**Reviewed Date:** November 19, 2021

**What do you like best about FortiOS?**

Possibility of modification in external tools

**What do you dislike about FortiOS?**

Many features are missing from the GUI...

**What problems is FortiOS solving and how is that benefiting you?**

Security in the organization


## FortiOS Discussions
  - [What is FortiOS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-fortios-used-for) - 2 comments

- [View FortiOS pricing details and edition comparison](https://www.g2.com/products/fortios/reviews?section=pricing&secure%5Bexpires_at%5D=2026-06-27+05%3A26%3A34+-0500&secure%5Bsession_id%5D=99f1ce52-6bec-4189-98e5-ae2a7cd9a9ef&secure%5Btoken%5D=13deab4737173b247ca5da763fab72e9a99d91fa5a3b2607fd5b3d5c934bd1b0&format=llm_user)
## FortiOS Integrations
  - [FortiClient](https://www.g2.com/products/forticlient/reviews)
  - [FortiGate-VM NGFW](https://www.g2.com/products/fortigate-vm-ngfw/reviews)
  - [Google Workspace](https://www.g2.com/products/google-workspace/reviews)
  - [JumpCloud](https://www.g2.com/products/jumpcloud/reviews)
  - [Microsoft Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS)](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-active-directory-certificate-services-ad-cs/reviews)
  - [Microsoft Entra ID](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-entra-id/reviews)
  - [Okta](https://www.g2.com/products/okta/reviews)
  - [Splunk Enterprise](https://www.g2.com/products/splunk-enterprise/reviews)

## FortiOS Features
**Memory Management - Operating System**
- RAM management

**Device Management - Operating System**
- I/O management

**Backup and Recovery - Operating System**
- Data backup

**Error Detection - Operating System**
- System operations monitoring

## Top FortiOS Alternatives
  - [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) - 4.6/5.0 (932 reviews)
  - [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) - 4.5/5.0 (2,338 reviews)
  - [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews) - 4.5/5.0 (4,105 reviews)

