Hardening a FortiGate Firewall using Copilot AI

I used the Microsoft Copilot AI tool to help generate a list or steps in "hardening" a FortiGate firewall. Below are the results of this query.

Hardening a FortiGate firewall involves configuring it to maximize security, reduce attack surfaces, and ensure best practices are followed. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you harden your FortiGate firewall:

 

🔐 1. Update Firmware

• Always run the latest stable firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
• Regularly check Fortinet’s support site for updates.

 

🔧 2. Disable Unused Services

• Disable services like Telnet, HTTP, SNMP, and FTP if not in use.
• Use secure alternatives (e.g., SSH instead of Telnet, HTTPS instead of HTTP).

 

🔒 3. Secure Administrative Access

• Restrict access to the management interface by IP.
• Use HTTPS and SSH only for admin access.
• Change default ports for admin access (e.g., from 443 to a non-standard port).
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all admin accounts.
• Limit login attempts and enable account lockout.

 

🛡️ 4. Configure Firewall Policies Carefully

• Use the principle of least privilege—only allow necessary traffic.
• Enable logging on all policies for auditing.
• Use application control, web filtering, and IPS where appropriate.

 

🧱 5. Enable Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)

• Apply IPS profiles to relevant policies.
• Regularly update IPS signatures.

 

🧬 6. Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware

• Enable antivirus scanning on applicable policies.
• Use FortiGuard services for real-time protection.

 

🌐 7. DNS and Web Filtering

• Use FortiGuard DNS filtering to block malicious domains.
• Apply web filtering profiles to control access to risky or inappropriate content.

 

📊 8. Monitor and Log Activity

• Enable logging to a remote syslog server or FortiAnalyzer.
• Regularly review logs for suspicious activity.
• Set up alerts for critical events.

 

🧾 9. Backup Configuration

• Regularly back up your configuration.
• Store backups securely and offline if possible.

 

🧰 10. Use Virtual Domains (VDOMs)

• Segment networks using VDOMs for better isolation and control.