FortiNAC is a network access control solution enhancing the Fortinet Security Fabric with visibility, control, and automated responses for all connecting devices. This guide assists customers in selecting the right licensing options, support services, and deployment strategies, ensuring seamless integration and optimal security outcomes for their network environments.
1.1 Overview of FortiNAC and Its Importance
FortiNAC is a network access control solution that enhances the Fortinet Security Fabric by providing visibility, control, and automated response for all devices connecting to the network. It is essential for securing IT, IoT, and OT environments, ensuring compliance and protecting against threats by enforcing policies and enabling microsegmentation across diverse networks.
1.2 Purpose of the Ordering Guide
This guide serves as a quick reference for enterprise customers to select and order FortiNAC solutions effectively. It outlines licensing options, support services, and deployment strategies, helping organizations streamline their purchasing process and ensure optimal network access control and security fabric integration tailored to their specific needs and environment requirements.
Licensing Options for FortiNAC
FortiNAC offers two license types: PLUS and PRO. These licenses provide distinct features and support levels, enabling customers to choose the option that best aligns with their network security needs and requirements.
2.1 Understanding License Types (PLUS and PRO)
FortiNAC offers two licensing options: PLUS and PRO. The PLUS license provides essential features for basic deployments, while the PRO license includes advanced capabilities such as IoT and OT security, along with premium support services for enhanced security and management needs.
2.2 Features and Support Provided by Each License Level
The PLUS license includes network visibility, device discovery, and basic enforcement capabilities. The PRO license adds advanced features like IoT/OT security, automated responses, and integration with Fortinet Security Fabric. PRO also offers higher SLAs and extended EoES, ensuring comprehensive support for enterprise-level security requirements.
2.3 Endpoint License Consumption and Management
Endpoint licenses are consumed based on the number of connected devices. Monitoring usage is crucial to avoid blocking new registrations. Administrators can check license status via CLI or GUI. Proper planning ensures adequate licensing for all endpoints, including IoT and OT devices, preventing network access issues when licenses are exhausted, ensuring security.
Deployment Stages of FortiNAC
FortiNAC deployment involves six key stages: defining network size, configuring requirements, establishing visibility, setting registration methods, enforcing policies, and monitoring outcomes for seamless network security management.
3.1 Defining Network Environment Size
FortiNAC defines the network environment size based on total switch ports and maximum concurrent wireless connections. Proper sizing ensures optimal performance, with VM resources scaled according to port count. Incorrect sizing may lead to slow enforcement or GUI issues. Refer to the datasheet (Page 14) and technical tips for performance recommendations and guidelines.
3.2 Network Requirements and Configuration Wizard
FortiNAC’s Configuration Wizard streamlines network setup by automatically handling routing and system changes. It configures network type, isolation subnets, and DHCP scopes, enabling state-based control. Manual changes via CLI or shell are not recommended. The wizard ensures scalability, supports L3 networks, and simplifies adding branch office networks, while maintaining optimal performance and security.
3.3 Establishing Network Visibility
FortiNAC enhances network visibility by collecting endpoint information through SNMP, CLI, and REST APIs. It learns endpoints via link traps, FortiGate integration, and directory services. Visibility is crucial for identifying rogue devices, ensuring compliance, and enabling automated responses. This step is foundational for effective network access control and security enforcement across IT, IoT, and OT environments.
3.4 Registration Methods for Devices
FortiNAC supports multiple registration methods, including MAC address-based registration for headless devices, DHCP option 43 for automated enrollment, and certificate-based registration for secure authentication. These methods ensure devices are properly identified and authorized, enhancing network security and simplifying device onboarding across diverse environments.
3;5 Remediation and Enforcement Policies
FortiNAC’s remediation and enforcement policies enable network segregation of non-compliant devices through isolation networks or VLANs. Automated responses trigger actions like quarantine, ensuring compliance and security. These policies streamline incident response and enhance overall security posture, protecting the network from unauthorized access and potential threats effectively.
3.6 Monitoring and Reporting
FortiNAC provides real-time network insights and historical data for comprehensive monitoring. It generates detailed reports on compliance, security events, and device activity, enabling organizations to maintain visibility and ensure adherence to security policies. These tools help identify vulnerabilities and trends, facilitating proactive measures to safeguard the network and maintain operational integrity effectively;
Support Services for FortiNAC
FortiNAC offers Premium Dedicated 24x7x365 Support and Elite Premium Plus with extended EoES. These services provide enhanced SLAs, automated monitoring via FortiCare Elite Portal, and priority assistance.
4.1 Premium Dedicated 24x7x365 Support
Premium Dedicated 24x7x365 Support provides round-the-clock access to Fortinet experts, ensuring rapid response and resolution for critical FortiNAC issues. This tier offers prioritized assistance, minimizing downtime and ensuring optimal network security and performance.
4.2 Elite Premium Plus Support with Extended EoES
Elite Premium Plus Support offers enhanced SLAs, extended End of Engineering Support (EoES), and dedicated engineering assistance. It provides faster response times, priority issue resolution, and access to advanced security updates, ensuring superior network protection and compliance. This tier is ideal for enterprises requiring high-level support and extended lifecycle management for their FortiNAC solutions.
4.3 FortiCare Elite Monitoring Portal
The FortiCare Elite Monitoring Portal offers advanced, automated monitoring for FortiNAC deployments. It provides real-time insights, proactive alerts, and detailed analytics to ensure optimal performance and security. This tool enables administrators to address potential issues swiftly, enhancing overall system reliability and compliance with security best practices.
Integration with Fortinet Security Fabric
FortiNAC enhances the Fortinet Security Fabric by providing visibility, control, and automated responses for all devices, ensuring comprehensive security and seamless integration across the network ecosystem.
5.1 Enhancing Security with FortiNAC
FortiNAC strengthens network security by identifying and controlling devices, enforcing policies, and integrating with Fortinet solutions. It automates responses to threats and enhances visibility across IT, IoT, and OT environments, ensuring robust protection and compliance with security policies.
5.2 IoT and OT Security Capabilities
FortiNAC provides robust security for IoT and OT environments by automating device discovery, enforcement, and response. It supports headless device registration via MAC address-based methods and integrates with FortiGate for optimized polling, ensuring comprehensive visibility and control over converged IT/OT ecosystems while mitigating unique IoT and OT-based threats.
Network Visibility and Device Discovery
FortiNAC enhances network visibility by discovering and profiling endpoints using SNMP, CLI, and REST API, providing real-time insights into connected devices and ensuring comprehensive network security management.
6.1 Collecting Endpoint Information
FortiNAC collects endpoint details like switch ports, SSIDs, APs, and VLANs using SNMP, CLI, and REST API. It learns endpoints through link traps and integrates with FortiGate for efficient polling, ensuring comprehensive network visibility and accurate device profiling to support security and compliance requirements effectively.
6.2 SNMP, CLI, and REST API for Device Management
FortiNAC leverages SNMP, CLI, and REST API for device management, enabling efficient monitoring and configuration. SNMP and CLI provide direct access to network devices, while REST API enhances integration with systems like FortiGate, improving polling efficiency and streamlining network management processes for better performance and scalability.
Registration Methods
FortiNAC offers multiple registration methods, including MAC address-based, DHCP Option 43, and certificate-based, providing flexibility for device enrollment and ensuring secure network access.
7.1 MAC Address-Based Registration
MAC address-based registration uses a device’s unique MAC address as the primary identifier. Ideal for IoT and headless devices, this method requires pre-defining the MAC address in FortiNAC. Upon connection, FortiNAC recognizes the device, ensuring secure and automatic enrollment without user intervention, enhancing network security and simplifying device onboarding processes.
7.2 DHCP Option 43 for Endpoint Registration
DHCP Option 43 enables endpoint registration by sending a registration request when a device requests an IP address. This method automates enrollment, moving devices from Rogue to a defined state. It streamlines network access and is ideal for organizations seeking efficient, scalable device onboarding without manual intervention, enhancing security and user experience.
7.3 Certificate-Based Registration
Certificate-Based Registration is a secure method where FortiNAC verifies a device’s digital certificate, ensuring authenticity and trust. This approach is ideal for environments requiring strong authentication, as it relies on certificates issued by trusted authorities. Devices are moved to appropriate states based on certificate validity, enhancing security and compliance for network access.
Remediation and Enforcement
FortiNAC’s remediation and enforcement capabilities ensure network security by isolating non-compliant devices. It automates quarantine processes and applies policies to enforce compliance and protect the network effectively.
8.1 Quarantine and Isolation Processes
FortiNAC’s quarantine and isolation processes securely segregate non-compliant or rogue devices. By automatically directing them to isolated networks, FortiNAC prevents unauthorized access, ensuring network security. This feature is crucial for maintaining compliance and mitigating potential threats from unverified devices, enhancing overall network protection and policy enforcement effectively.
8.2 Policy Examples for Non-Compliant Devices
FortiNAC enables organizations to define policies for non-compliant devices, such as automatic quarantine or restricted network access. These policies ensure remediation steps are triggered, like mandatory updates or user notifications. Examples include isolating devices lacking patches or blocking unauthorized IoT devices, ensuring compliance and security without disrupting legitimate network activities, while maintaining visibility and control.
Monitoring and Reporting
FortiNAC provides real-time network insights and comprehensive reporting, enabling organizations to monitor device activity, ensure compliance, and make informed decisions. Automated monitoring enhances visibility and security.
9.1 Real-Time Network Insights
FortiNAC delivers real-time visibility into network activity, enabling organizations to monitor connected endpoints, detect anomalies, and respond swiftly. By leveraging SNMP, CLI, and REST API, FortiNAC provides actionable insights, ensuring proactive threat detection and efficient network management. This capability is essential for maintaining security and optimizing performance in dynamic environments.
9.2 Compliance and Security Reporting
FortiNAC provides comprehensive reporting tools to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and enhance security. Detailed reports on network activity, device compliance, and vulnerabilities enable organizations to maintain audit-ready records. Customizable dashboards and automated alerts help identify risks, ensuring proactive measures to safeguard the network and meet compliance requirements effectively.
Best Practices for FortiNAC Deployment
Ensure proper system sizing based on network port count, use the Configuration Wizard for setup, and optimize performance by allocating sufficient VM resources for CPU, memory, and storage.
10.1 System Sizing and Resource Allocation
Accurate system sizing is critical for FortiNAC deployment. Calculate based on the total switch port count, not device numbers. Allocate sufficient VM resources, including CPU, memory, and storage, to prevent performance issues like slow GUI operations or enforcement delays. Proper sizing ensures optimal functionality and scalability for growing networks.
10.2 Performance Optimization Tips
Regularly update FortiNAC software to leverage latest features and improvements. Ensure proper resource allocation based on network size and device count. Monitor system performance and adjust configurations as needed. Use automated tools and built-in analytics for proactive management. Consult the FortiNAC datasheet for specific optimization recommendations tailored to your deployment environment.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues include licensing problems and configuration errors. Check system logs for error messages, ensure proper network device integration, and verify license status for optimal functionality.
11.1 Resolving Licensing Issues
Resolve licensing issues by checking system logs for error messages and verifying license status using CLI commands like show license. Ensure proper integration of network devices and manage endpoint licenses to prevent access denial. Regularly monitor license consumption and contact Fortinet support for assistance with activation or renewal.
11.2 Addressing Configuration Challenges
Configuration challenges can be resolved using the Configuration Wizard, which automates network setup and isolates changes. Avoid manual CLI edits and ensure proper system sizing for optimal performance. Regularly review network device integration and polling settings to maintain visibility and control, ensuring seamless FortiNAC operation across all connected endpoints and environments.
FortiNAC’s deployment involves defining environment size, network requirements, and registration methods. Ensure proper licensing and leverage support services for optimal security. Refer to Fortinet resources for further assistance.
12.1 Summary of Key Considerations
Key considerations include assessing network size, selecting appropriate licenses, and planning deployment stages. Ensure proper integration with Fortinet Security Fabric for enhanced security. Consider support services like Premium Dedicated or Elite Premium Plus for optimal assistance. Plan for IoT and OT security needs, and review resource allocation to avoid performance issues. Consult Fortinet resources for detailed guidance.
12.2 Resources for Further Assistance
For further assistance, refer to Fortinet’s official resources, including the FortiNAC datasheet, deployment guide, and technical notes. Visit Fortinet’s website for comprehensive guides, support services, and documentation. Utilize the FortiCare Elite Monitoring Portal for enhanced support and monitoring. Contact Fortinet support for personalized guidance and troubleshooting.