FortiSwitch & FortiAP: The Network Backbone of Your Business
FortiSwitch & FortiAP: Built for Robust Infrastructures
Organizations need to build robust infrastructures capable of handling both growing traffic volumes and increasing security demands. Along the way, they face familiar challenges: fragmented network architectures, security gaps caused by isolated components, and the exponential growth of endpoints and data volumes.
The backbone of any solid network infrastructure is built on modern switches and access points that go far beyond simple connectivity. They are strategic control elements for data flows and serve as the first line of defense against security threats.
FortiSwitch and FortiAP take this a step further: they deliver tailored solutions that combine consistent performance, strong security, and simple management.
Seamless Infrastructure: FortiSwitch and FortiAP Working Together
Behind Fortinet Switch lies a broad portfolio of network switches ranging from compact desktop models to high-performance Fortinet campus switches for enterprise networks. With this versatile feature set, tailored network solutions can be built for a wide range of requirements.
The wired network is complemented by the high-performance wireless access points of the FortiAP product family, which work directly with the switches. FortiSwitch components don’t just supply FortiAP devices with power via PoE: they also provide the backbone connection for all Wi-Fi traffic.
This harmonious synergy creates a unified network concept, from the data center to the most remote access point. Especially in large FortiSwitch campus environments where numerous FortiAP devices are strategically deployed, the FortiSwitches deliver the necessary bandwidth and failover resilience.
What is particularly noteworthy is the deep integration of both product lines into the Fortinet Security Fabric. This unique security architecture implements a comprehensive security concept spanning from the access point through the switch all the way to the firewall. Threats are detected and proactively mitigated, a decisive advantage over isolated network components.
Features & Benefits at a Glance: FortiSwitch & FortiAP
FortiSwitch Features
Modern network infrastructures require more than just connectivity: they need intelligent, secure, and highly flexible solutions. The FortiSwitch product line redefines network switching, going well beyond basic connectivity to combine strong security with high performance and simplified management.
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
With up to 90W per port (PoE++), FortiAPs as well as demanding devices such as surveillance cameras or VoIP systems can be powered directly through the Ethernet cable. This significantly reduces cabling requirements and simplifies infrastructure planning.
Centralized Management via FortiGate
All FortiSwitch devices can be configured, monitored, and managed from a single console. This reduces the typical management complexity of heterogeneous networks while lowering operational costs through simplified workflows and automated processes.
Performance and Scalability
Fortinet campus switches deliver impressive throughput of up to 100 Gbps per uplink port and offer extensive stacking capabilities. This allows even complex network topologies to be designed flexibly and with future growth in mind, whether for small branch offices or global enterprise environments.
Advanced Network Features
Advanced network features such as sophisticated VLAN configurations, robust multi-chassis link aggregation, and differentiated Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms ensure the required bandwidth for business-critical applications.
FortiSwitch Benefits at a Glance
- Flexible scalability
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- Centralized management
- Advanced network features
FortiAP Features
Wireless networks and their access points must combine security, performance, and flexibility today. The FortiAP product family brings together innovative security features, top-tier performance, and intelligent management.
Secure Wireless Access
Every FortiAP is an active security sensor on the network, providing secure wireless access with firewall functionality, guest access management, and data encryption. Additionally, the integrated Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS) detects and neutralizes rogue access points and other wireless-based threats.
Wireless Mesh Networks
Fortinet AP solutions support wireless mesh networks, providing maximum flexibility in network design. Since the access points communicate wirelessly with each other, even areas that are difficult to cable can be covered. This is especially useful at temporary sites, in large outdoor areas, or in historic buildings.
Remote Management
The cloud-based management solution significantly boosts operational efficiency, offering comprehensive insight into wireless network usage, automated firmware updates, and proactive issue detection. IT teams can configure, monitor, and maintain FortiAP devices from anywhere.
Performance and Capacity
With support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and MU-MIMO technology, even high user densities and bandwidth-intensive applications are no problem for FortiAP devices. This makes them ideal for environments such as educational institutions, conference centers, or modern open-plan offices.
FortiAP Benefits at a Glance
- Integrated security features
- Flexible mesh networking
- Cloud-based management
- Top-tier performance
Operational Benefits with FortiSwitch & FortiAP
Unified management of all network components significantly reduces the administrative burden for organizations. Studies report up to 60% greater efficiency compared to heterogeneous network environments. While management effort and complexity are minimized, the level of protection provided by FortiSwitch and FortiAP increases substantially.
The improved network performance inevitably contributes to higher productivity: employees benefit from fast connections without latency issues or bottlenecks. IT departments also maintain full visibility over network structures through proactive monitoring tools and detailed analytics. Not least, the increased availability through redundant designs and automatic failover mechanisms protects business processes from costly interruptions.
Both the FortiSwitch and FortiAP product lines address the needs of a wide range of industries and organization sizes. Thanks to their flexibility and customizability, virtually any business benefits from moving to these modern network solutions:
- Enterprise models offer organizations in the financial sector top-tier performance and comprehensive compliance capabilities.
- Healthcare organizations benefit from secure network segmentation to protect sensitive patient data and IoT devices.
- Educational institutions appreciate the robust wireless capabilities that ensure reliable connectivity even in packed lecture halls.
- In retail, the solutions provide straightforward connectivity for point-of-sale systems, security cameras, and digital displays.
- Compact desktop and rackmount models offer small and mid-sized businesses competitive pricing and flexible solutions.
From Analysis to Support: concentrade – Your Partner for FortiSwitch & FortiAP
At concentrade, we are a certified Fortinet partner with deep expertise in the design, implementation, and management of FortiSwitch and FortiAP infrastructures. We set ourselves apart from other providers: instead of selling you off-the-shelf solutions, our experts develop tailored concepts designed around your specific requirements.
Our collaboration starts with a comprehensive analysis of your specific business situation. Here, we evaluate your network structures, security needs, and growth prospects. Based on the results, we then design a switch and AP concept that optimally serves your network requirements.
Deployment of Fortinet network switches and wireless AP solutions follows the highest professional standards. We don’t just ensure seamless integration into your existing IT environment: we also support you in optimizing your network topology.
We stay by your side after go-live, too: with our proactive support, we don’t just react to problems, we continuously evolve your network infrastructure. Security audits and performance analyses are part of our scope, along with rapid troubleshooting when technical challenges arise.
We see ourselves as a long-term partner supporting you in the continuous development of your network infrastructure. With concentrade, you don’t just get FortiSwitch and FortiAP technology: you get a strategic ally that always keeps your requirements in focus.
What you get from us:
- Fortinet-certified experts with extensive experience
- End-to-end implementation from a single source
- 24/7 support and monitoring options
- Regular security audits and system optimizations
- Flexible support models tailored to your individual needs
Your Path to Stronger Security with concentrade, FortiSwitch & FortiAP:
- No-obligation consultation
- Tailored design
- Seamless implementation
- Proactive support
Discover Fortinet Network Switches: with concentrade by Your Side
Fortinet’s FortiSwitch and FortiAP represent more than just network components: they are strategic enablers for digital transformation and enterprise security. The seamless integration into the Fortinet Security Fabric, the comprehensive security features, and the outstanding scalability make these solutions the go-to choice for organizations that value performance, security, and future-readiness.
With concentrade as your partner, both products reach their full potential: we analyze your existing infrastructure, implement a tailored switch and AP concept, and provide professional support from day one. Contact us for a personalized consultation and take your infrastructure to the next level with us.
FAQs
How is a FortiAP configured in a FortiSwitch network for optimal performance?
For optimal performance, ensure the FortiAP receives the correct IP settings via DHCP and that all necessary VLANs for SSID mapping are correctly configured on the FortiSwitch.
Can FortiAPs connected to a FortiSwitch be remotely managed through an IPsec tunnel?
FortiAPs and FortiSwitches can be remotely managed through an IPsec tunnel. This requires proper configuration of the Phase2 selector on the FortiGate to ensure traffic rules and routes are set up correctly to allow traffic through the tunnel.
What should you do if FortiAPs connected to a FortiSwitch cannot establish a connection?
Start by checking the VLAN configuration and DHCP settings for correctness. In some cases, a static IP configuration can cause issues, which is why using DHCP is recommended.
How can FortiAPs be securely integrated into an existing network that already uses FortiSwitches?
Ensure that VLANs are properly tagged and the native configuration of connected ports is set up correctly. Consistency of these VLANs across the switch and the access points is critical.
How do you set up a secure and efficient connection between FortiAPs and FortiSwitches using tunnel mode and VLANs?
Tunnel mode should be enabled on the FortiAP and specific VLANs assigned to SSIDs. Additionally, verify that these VLANs are correctly configured on the FortiSwitch to support client traffic flowing through the FortiAP.