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Deployment of Fortinet Secure
SD-Branch Across Multiple Client Locations

Hooman Houtaham's avatar

Author

Hooman Houtaham

Network and Security Engineer

Overview:

In 2019, as part of a comprehensive network security upgrade for a key client, NETSSA was tasked with deploying Fortinet’s Secure SD-Branch solution across several branch offices. The client, operating in a highly regulated industry, required a converged solution that integrated Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), SD-WAN, and Wi-Fi to enhance security, improve network performance, and simplify management. As the lead Network Engineer, I spearheaded the deployment of FortiGate 30E devices at each branch, enabling the convergence of these critical network functions and achieving a significant reduction in security incidents.

Objective:

  • Enhance Security: Implement Fortinet NGFW across all branch locations to protect against advanced threats and reduce security incidents.
  • Optimize Network Performance: Leverage SD-WAN capabilities to improve application performance and ensure reliable connectivity between branches.
  • Simplify Network Management: Converge network functions under a unified management platform, reducing operational complexity and enabling easier oversight.
  • Improve Wi-Fi Coverage and Security: Deploy integrated Wi-Fi solutions at each branch to provide secure and reliable wireless connectivity.

Technologies Used:

  • FortiGate 30E: Deployed as the primary security and networking device at each branch, integrating NGFW, SD-WAN, and Wi-Fi functionalities.
  • FortiManager: Used for centralized management and configuration of all FortiGate devices across branches.
  • FortiAP: Fortinet wireless access points integrated with FortiGate for secure branch Wi-Fi.
  • SD-WAN: Enabled within FortiGate to manage WAN traffic efficiently and prioritize critical applications.
  • FortiGuard Services: Deployed to provide real-time threat intelligence and security enforcement.

Detailed Networking and Configuration

  1. FortiGate 30E Deployment and Configuration
    • NGFW Implementation:
      • Configured FortiGate 30E devices as NGFWs at each branch to protect against threats such as malware, intrusions, and unauthorized access.
      • Applied security policies tailored to the client’s regulatory requirements, including web filtering, application control, and IPS (Intrusion Prevention System).
    • SD-WAN Configuration:
      • Implemented SD-WAN on FortiGate 30E devices to intelligently route traffic across multiple WAN links, prioritizing critical applications like VoIP and ERP.
      • Enabled WAN path selection based on real-time performance metrics, ensuring optimized application delivery and minimizing latency.
    • Wi-Fi Integration:
      • Deployed FortiAP units at each branch, managed directly by the FortiGate 30E devices to provide seamless, secure Wi-Fi coverage.
      • Configured Wi-Fi networks with WPA2-Enterprise encryption and integrated with the client’s Active Directory for secure authentication.
    • Centralized Management via FortiManager:
      • Integrated all branch FortiGate devices with FortiManager for centralized configuration, monitoring, and policy enforcement.
      • Utilized automation tools within FortiManager to standardize configurations across branches, reducing manual errors and improving operational efficiency.
  2. Security Enhancements
    • Unified Threat Management (UTM):
      • Activated FortiGuard security services across all FortiGate devices, providing real-time threat detection and response.
      • Implemented deep packet inspection (DPI) to identify and block malicious traffic, enhancing the overall security posture.
    • Security Incident Reduction:
      • Tailored security policies were enforced consistently across all branches, resulting in a 40% reduction in security incidents within the first six months of deployment.
    • Compliance with Industry Standards:
      • Ensured all deployed security measures complied with the client’s industry-specific regulatory requirements, including data protection and network security standards.
  3. Network Optimization and Management
    • SD-WAN Optimization:
      • Configured SD-WAN to dynamically adjust bandwidth allocation based on real-time application needs, improving overall network performance and user experience.
      • Conducted regular performance reviews to fine-tune SD-WAN policies and maximize efficiency.
    • Simplified Management:
      • Centralized management through FortiManager enabled streamlined monitoring, quick deployment of updates, and consistent policy application across all branch locations.
      • Reduced operational overhead by automating routine tasks such as firmware upgrades and configuration backups.

Implementation Phases:

  1. Assessment and Planning:
    • Conducted an initial assessment of the client’s existing network infrastructure, identifying key areas where security and performance needed improvement.
    • Designed a deployment plan that would meet the client’s security, performance, and management objectives across all branch locations.
  2. Deployment and Integration:
    • Installed FortiGate 30E devices and FortiAP units at each branch, followed by the integration of these devices with the centralized FortiManager platform.
    • Configured and tested NGFW, SD-WAN, and Wi-Fi functionalities to ensure optimal performance and security.
  3. Optimization and Fine-Tuning:
    • Monitored the deployment for initial performance and security issues, making adjustments as necessary to optimize both network and security performance.
    • Provided training to the client’s IT staff on using FortiManager for ongoing management and monitoring of the deployed solution.

Skills Gained:

  • Advanced expertise in deploying Fortinet’s Secure SD-Branch solutions, including NGFW, SD-WAN, and Wi-Fi integration.
  • Proficiency in centralized management using FortiManager for large-scale, multi-branch deployments.
  • Enhanced skills in network security, including the implementation of UTM features and compliance with industry standards.

Results and Impact:

  • 40% Reduction in Security Incidents: The deployment of NGFW and advanced security policies led to a significant decrease in security-related incidents across all branches.
  • Streamlined Network Management: Centralized management through FortiManager reduced the complexity of network operations, enabling quicker response times and more efficient policy enforcement.
  • Enhanced Branch Connectivity: SD-WAN optimization improved application performance and ensured reliable connectivity, supporting the client’s operational needs.

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