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Various Applications of FortiGate Next-Generation Firewalls
The Cyber Security Review | Sunday, February 27, 2022
FortiGate Next-generation Firewalls feature security processing units (SPUs), including the NP7 (Network Processor 7). Hybrid and hyperscale data centers can benefit from security-driven networking enabled by these network firewalls.
FREMONT, CA: FortiGate Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) are network firewalls driven by purpose-built security processing units (SPUs), such as the NP7 (Network Processor 7). They allow for security-driven networking and are the appropriate network firewalls for hybrid and hyper-scale data centers.
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Fortinet NGFWs lessen cost and complexity by eradicating point products and consolidating industry-leading security capabilities such as secure sockets layer (SSL) inspection, including the latest TLS1.3, web filtering, and intrusion prevention system (IPS) to provide complete visibility and protect any network edge. Fortinet NGFWs uniquely satisfy the performance requirements of hyper-scale and hybrid IT systems, allowing businesses to deliver an ideal user experience and manage security risks for improved business continuity.
FortiGate NGFWs inspect network traffic at hyper-scale as it enters and exits the network. These inspections are conducted with unmatched speed, scalability, and performance to ensure that only genuine traffic is permitted without affecting the user experience or causing expensive downtime.
FortiGate NGFWs connect with the complete Fortinet security portfolio and third-party security solutions in a multivendor environment. FortiGate NGFWs interface seamlessly with artificial intelligence (AI)-powered FortiGuard and FortiSandbox services to protect against known and zero-day attacks and improve operational efficiency via interaction with Fabric Management Center.
FortiGate NGFWs enable digital transformation by safeguarding every edge and application at any scale by enhancing operational efficiency, automating workflows, and delivering best-of-breed threat protection. FortiGate NGFWs have the highest security compute rating in the industry and give the following advantages:
Manage external security risks: Companies without TLS decryption solutions are oblivious to the nearly 90 percent of encrypted HTTPS traffic due to the increasing volume of HTTPS traffic. They are, therefore, vulnerable to targeted virus campaigns and data loss. FortiGate NGFWs provide security-driven networking for complete visibility into applications, threats, and networks. This safeguards any edge with industry-validated best-of-breed security to maintain business continuity and keep operations going.
Manage internal security risks: Flat networks are more vulnerable to attack because they lack advanced security inspection. FortiGate NGFWs provide network-based segmentation to reduce the attack surface and inhibit an attack's ability to spread laterally within the network. It helps secure any segmentation (micro-, macro-, port-, or application-based) with automated workflows, adaptive trust, and high-performance threat protection to achieve defense in depth, compliance, and Trusted Application Access.
Manage vulnerabilities: Most malware spreads by exploiting known weaknesses, making it the leading cause of attacks. FortiGate NGFWs provide integrated IPS without reducing performance to provide virtual patching, block known and zero-day attacks, and reduce cost and complexity.
Offer protection at hyper-scale: Traditional firewalls cannot handle the massive amounts of user traffic necessary at hyperscale speeds. Consequently, the user experience degrades. Abandoning security allows attackers to disrupt services. Fortinet Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) deliver exceptional and unmatched protection to guarantee that your company's websites stay accessible and responsive and give an Optimal User Experience.
Secure cloud access point: Organization's desire cloud computing for its agility, reliability, and scalability on demand. Transferring data securely to and from the cloud at network speeds is necessary to preserve user experience and compliance. Traditional firewalls do not permit the rapid movement of huge data sets, which slows down business operations. Featuring Elephant Flows, Fortinet NGFWs can give businesses file transfer speeds of up to 100Gbps along with IPsec encryption at the same speed.
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AI has made significant advancements, demonstrating its potential to transform cybersecurity fundamentally. As technology progresses and malicious actors become increasingly skilled, businesses must remain proactive to counter cyberattacks effectively. AI tools and technologies can significantly enhance decision-making for senior management and improve the identification and response to cybersecurity threats.
Because cybersecurity is changing so quickly, businesses must be on the lookout for the newest dangers. AI can increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of security procedures like patching and updating and enhance the detection of hostile actors. AI solutions give businesses the advantage they need to keep one step ahead of fraudsters.
There are several obstacles to establishing a virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO). Because cybersecurity is so complicated, specialists have only been able to develop adaptable frameworks. While many cybersecurity tools and surveys integrated into applications might aid in focus, they still need to replace a vCISO fully. Their incapacity to provide customized counsel and recommendations based on particular security requirements is the main problem with vCISOs. By evaluating an organization's security requirements and producing customized suggestions to strengthen its security posture, AI-powered technologies can assist in closing this gap.
It takes a lot of money and experience to develop a CISO with AI capabilities. AI has to be trained on massive datasets to identify patterns precisely and produce customized recommendations. Malicious actors cannot manipulate or exploit data without constant monitoring and updates. Secure AI implementation prevents hackers from accessing private information or systems. Additionally, organizations must ensure that AI-powered decision-making doesn't provide unfair or biased results.
The particular requirements of the company determine which AI platform is best. Platforms that provide scalability, customization, and a range of price structures are popular. For example, the OpenAI API offers resources and services for creating AI solutions, such as pre-trained models for applications like natural language processing. It is perfect for building an AI-powered virtual CISO that can produce customized suggestions and guidance since it is scalable and customizable.
AI is evolving as a key component of contemporary cybersecurity, assisting businesses in staying one step ahead of malevolent actors. AI tools and technology can improve senior management's decision-making processes and identify and respond to cyber threats. An AI-powered virtual CISO can assess the state of security, identify possible dangers, and offer advice on how to deal with present problems and avoid attacks in the future. It also helps firms stay abreast of the most recent developments in security, enabling them to modify their security procedures as necessary.
Physical CISOs will continue to be essential even though AI-powered virtual CISOs have a lot of potential. AI will become crucial to a CISO's toolset, offering insightful analysis and suggestions to improve cybersecurity initiatives. ...Read more
Identity and access management benefits users, security, IT administrators, and the entire company. Study the six primary benefits of an IAM framework.
In the past, when users wanted access to a particular system, program, or another corporate resource, they were given a username and password that corresponded to the required access level.
This was a reasonable approach when the number of IT services was modest, but it didn't take long for a user to maintain a dozen or more accounts. Many end users have resorted to putting their usernames and passwords on post-it notes and sticking them to their computer monitors to keep track of them. By any security standard, this password management method is an obvious no-no. Consequently, IT needs a method to manage the increasing number of user accounts better. Identity and access control proved to be the solution (IAM).
IAM is a framework of processes, policies, and systems that manage digital identities streamlined and safely. Here are the top six benefits of identity and access management for users, security administrators, and businesses.
Make life easier for end-users: IAM solutions allow users—workers, third parties, contractors, guests, customers, vendors, and partners—to access business systems regardless of their location, the time of day, and, in many cases, the device they are employing.
IT managers can utilize IAM systems to generate a unique digital identity for each user, including a single set of credentials, rather than forcing users to manage dozens of identities for different business apps or resources.
Did you know that the average response time for help desk tickets is 7 hours and 4 minutes? If employees are kept out of their accounts for this long while waiting for the help desk to reset their passwords or enable access, the lost productivity can amount to thousands of dollars.
With single sign-on (SSO), users can access cloud-based, SaaS, web-based, and virtual apps using their unique credentials. From productivity tools, such as Microsoft 365 or Salesforce, to collaboration applications, such as Zoom or file-sharing services, SSO reduces friction in login processes and enhances UX across the board.
Eliminate complex password problems: IAM solutions prohibit users from adhering passwords to their monitors, facilitating easier sign-in processes and increasing productivity.
In reference to passwords written on sticky notes, one of the most common sources of data breaches today is compromised user credentials. Numerous IAM systems provide password management capabilities that aid security administrators in enforcing password best practices, such as minimum character lengths and frequent password updates, and robust authentication methods, such as multifactor authentication, biometrics, and role-based access. ...Read more
From manufacturing plants and energy grids to water systems and logistics hubs, industrial sectors are increasingly dependent on interconnected systems to optimize performance, automate processes, and reduce costs. Digital integration brings significant vulnerabilities that, if exploited, can lead to operational shutdowns, data breaches, physical damage, and safety hazards. Mapping assets and understanding their roles in mission-critical operations allows organizations to categorize them based on their risk profile and potential impact.
Compliance and Continuous Monitoring
While technology forms the backbone of industrial cyber risk management, human behavior and organizational culture often determine its success. Compliance with industry standards and regulatory frameworks also underpins a robust risk management strategy. For industries with national security relevance, mandatory compliance with government cybersecurity directives is often non-negotiable. Continuous monitoring is a final, critical component. Combining the tools with threat intelligence feeds and behavioral analytics enhances the ability to predict, prevent, and respond to sophisticated attacks.
Industrial cyber risk management is no longer a back-office function; it is a frontline defense against increasingly sophisticated threats. By building a layered defense strategy, cultivating a security-first culture, and embracing continuous monitoring, industries can protect not just their data but also their people, processes, and physical assets. In a world where downtime can mean disaster, proactive and adaptive cybersecurity has become the backbone of resilient industrial operations.
Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Framework
Effective industrial cyber risk management begins with a structured framework that aligns cybersecurity objectives with operational priorities. Unlike traditional IT systems, OT assets like PLCs, SCADA systems, and sensors often operate on legacy protocols and lack built-in security. A strong risk management plan includes vulnerability assessments, threat modeling, and network segmentation. Threat modeling anticipates potential attack vectors by considering how adversaries might infiltrate systems or move laterally within networks.
Network segmentation is a critical tactic in minimizing the blast radius of a cyberattack. By isolating OT systems from the broader IT network using firewalls, DMZs (demilitarized zones), and strict access controls, organizations can limit exposure and contain threats more effectively. Regular patch management and firmware updates also play a key role, as many industrial cyberattacks exploit outdated systems. Where updates cannot be applied due to compatibility issues, compensating controls such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), endpoint protection, and real-time monitoring must be deployed. ...Read more
Organizations are under increasing pressure to upgrade their cybersecurity posture, yet many lack the resources to establish a complete in-house security leadership team. This challenge promotes the rapid use of virtual chief information security officer services. Businesses rely on external security specialists to provide on-demand strategic assistance, risk management, and compliance oversight. The concept is ideal for firms seeking high-level expertise without the expense and complexity of a permanent executive position. Rising digital risks and regulatory expectations continue to propel vCISO services into the mainstream, transforming how businesses approach security leadership.
Growing Demand for Flexible Security Leadership
More organizations now view vCISO services as an essential part of their security strategy. Many operate in dynamic environments where threats shift quickly, and internal teams often struggle to keep pace. A virtual security leader fills this gap by providing ongoing oversight, policy development, and incident readiness tailored to each business.
Smaller and mid-sized companies see substantial value in the vCISO model because it grants access to senior expertise at a manageable cost. Larger enterprises also tap into virtual security leadership to support regional operations, handle specialized projects, or bridge leadership gaps during transitions. The shift toward remote work and distributed systems makes flexible leadership even more relevant, as companies need continuous monitoring and rapid decision-making.
Industries with strict compliance requirements increasingly depend on vCISO guidance. External specialists help organizations interpret evolving standards and structure long-term programs that reduce exposure. This practical support enables companies to stay ahead of audits, certifications, and legal obligations while building a more resilient security culture.
Focus on Proactive Risk Management and Scalable Models
vCISO services now emphasize proactive security rather than reactive response. Providers implement structured risk assessments, develop scalable frameworks, and introduce security metrics that support informed decision-making. Stakeholders gain a clear view of vulnerabilities, threat patterns, and business impact, allowing them to prioritize investments more effectively.
Scalability represents another major trend. vCISO engagements now adapt to the client’s maturity level, whether a company requires basic governance or a comprehensive transformation. Modular service packages allow organizations to expand or reduce support as their needs change. This approach creates a long-term partnership rather than a one-time consultation.
Technology integration also strengthens modern vCISO models. Security leaders rely on advanced monitoring tools, automation, and analytics to enhance visibility. These capabilities allow experts to detect abnormalities early and guide swift remediation. Organizations benefit from structured processes that support continuous improvement, incident preparedness, and stronger defense strategies. ...Read more
