Security Goes Hand-in-Hand with Fortinet SD-WAN

With SD-WAN Security, you are moving into the future of connectivity with the security baked into the architecture rather than just an afterthought. Security needs to be at the center of your network from the beginning. That’s where Fortinet SD-WAN really excels.

In this blog, we discuss why Fortinet SD-WAN is no ordinary SD-WAN solution. This is a next-generation system that adds security to your WAN infrastructure gracefully. If you are a business leader, an IT pro, or a cybersecurity enthusiast, read on to know why your organization cannot afford to ignore it. So, grab a coffee, and let’s unpack it together.

Introduction

What is SD-WAN Security and why does it matter? You may already know that SD-WAN improves performance and saves on costs for wide-area networks. But here’s the problem: without strong security integrated into the solution, you are exposing your network.

Hackers are becoming more sophisticated every day. The explosion of cloud apps, remote work, and IoT devices leaves attack surfaces larger. Traditional security models? They just don’t cut it anymore.

Fortinet SD-WAN turns this completely on its head. It provides networking + security in a single unified solution. No longer bolting on security as an afterthought. Say goodbye to managing multiple vendors. Just a simple, safe, efficient network.

Security Challenges

Before we get into Fortinet’s way of doing things, let’s check out some real-world security challenges. Because believe me, understanding what’s at stake can help you make better decisions for your business.

1. Increasing Cyber Threats

• Ransomware Attacks: These not only hold your data hostage—they take your entire business hostage.
• Data Breaches: By making a connection to your network the weak point of your network, your sensitive information could be at risk, resulting in expensive regulatory fines.
• Sophisticated Malware: Hackers are now employing AI-driven malware to overcome native security barriers.

2. Complexity in IT Environments

• Migrating to the cloud? Excellent, but that exposes an entirely new set of vulnerabilities.
• Deploying IoT devices? Each is another entry point for hackers.
• People working remotely logging on from anywhere? You also need to protect those connections.

3. Siloed Solutions

Businesses tend to rely on disparate tools when it comes to networking and security. Here’s the problem: They don’t always communicate with each other. This piecemeal approach results in gaps, inefficiencies, and a failure to respond to threats.

Security Features of Fortinet SD-WAN

Now comes the part you’ve been waiting for. Fortinet SD-WAN doesn’t just deliver security; it is security first. Let’s break this down.

1. Networking and Security As One

Stateful Network with Unified Network VPC + Network Security:

Fortinet SD-WAN integrates networking and security into one device. Why does this matter? More integration in your stacks means fewer gaps.

• Simplified Management: Your IT team doesn’t spend time toggling between networking and security tools.
• Near-Transparent Protection: Provides protection across every site—on-premises or in the cloud.

2. Features of a Next-Gen Firewall (NGFW)

Fortinet SD-WAN is based on NGFW (Next Generation Firewall). This provides your network with advanced threat protection at multiple levels.

• Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): Identifies and eliminates malicious content before it enters your apps.
• Application Awareness: Secures traffic while prioritizing bandwidth for your critical business applications.
• Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Identifies and prevents advanced threats in real-time.

3. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

Trust nothing — verify everything: That’s the premise of ZTNA, and it’s natively built into Fortinet SD-WAN.

• Employees can securely connect to remote networks from anywhere.
• Strictly verifies identity and device.
• Reduces risks from unauthorized access.

4. Built-In SD-WAN Orchestration

SD-WAN, a security headache to many, is synergistically managed by Fortinet:

• Single Management Pane: Manage network traffic and security rules all in one pane.
• Auto-Detect and Dynamically Apply Policies: Based on the apps being used, enforce security.
• Uniform Policies: Consistent protections whether at HQ or remote offices.

5. Real-Time Threat Intelligence

Using its robust FortiGuard Labs system, Fortinet stays a step ahead of new threats.

• Your SD-WAN receives threat updates in real-time.
• Proactive defense against zero-day threats with AI and machine learning.

The Reasons Why Businesses Are Selecting Fortinet SD-WAN

You might be thinking, “Why should I care about all these features?” Allow me to clarify.

Fortinet SD-WAN empowers businesses, not just tech. Here’s why that’s a game changer:

• Cost-Efficient: Stop buying separate security devices. One appliance does it all.
• The Art of Speed and Safety: You achieve best-in-class network performance without giving up security.
• Compliance-Ready: Security features that meet regulatory standards.

Conclusion

SD-WAN Security is not an option in today’s connected world. As the risks of cybercrime rise and IT environments become more complex, businesses can no longer afford to treat security as its own entity separate from networking.

This is what sets Fortinet SD-WAN apart. It is not only a networking tool—it’s an all-in-one solution that works effortlessly to support your business while safeguarding it.

With unified security features and zero-day threat defense, Fortinet has raised the bar for the industry. If you are looking for a way to streamline your IT operations and improve your cybersecurity posture, Fortinet SD-WAN could be the right solution for you.

The new era of SD-WAN Security is here. Are you ready to embrace it?