Configuring

NAT vs. Transparent mode

Configuring

This section provides an overview of the operating modes of the FortiGate unit, NAT/Route and Transparent, and how to configure the FortiGate unit for each mode. There are two ways you can configure the FortiGate unit, using the web-based manager or the command line interface (CLI). This section will step through using both methods. Use whichever you are most comfortable with.

This section includes the following topics:

NAT vs. Transparent mode

Connecting to the FortiGate unit

Verify the configuration

Backing up the configuration

Additional configuration

NAT vs. Transparent mode

The FortiGate unit can run in two different modes, depending on your network infrastructure and requirements. You have a choice between NAT/Route mode and Transparent mode. Both include the same robust network security features such as antispam, antivirus, VPN and firewall policies.

NAT mode

In NAT/Route mode, the FortiGate unit is visible to the network. Like a router, all its interfaces are on different subnets.

In NAT mode, each port is on a different subnet, enabling you to have a single IP address available to the public Internet. The FortiGate unit performs network address translation before it sends and receives the packet to the destination network.

In Route mode, there is no address translation.

Figure 1: FortiGate unit in NAT mode

Internet

204.23.1.5

192.168.1.99

 

 

Router

NAT mode policies controlling traffic between internal and external networks.

Internal network

192.168.1.20

You typically use NAT/Route mode when the FortiGate unit is operating as a gateway between private and public networks. In this configuration, you would create NAT mode firewall policies to control traffic flowing between the internal, private network and the external, public network, usually the Internet.

FortiGate-3016B FortiOS 3.0 MR6 Install Guide

 

01-30006-0458-20080318

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Fortinet 3016B manual Configuring, NAT vs. Transparent mode, NAT mode

3016B specifications

The Fortinet 3016B is a robust firewall solution designed to meet the dynamic security needs of modern enterprises. As part of the FortiGate product line, the 3016B combines advanced security features with high performance, catering to organizations that require reliability and efficiency in managing their network security.

One of the primary features of the Fortinet 3016B is its high throughput capabilities. It supports up to 40 Gbps of firewall throughput and an impressive 7.5 Gbps of intrusion prevention system (IPS) throughput. This ensures that even at peak network loads, the firewall can maintain strong performance without compromising security. This feature is particularly important for businesses that handle large volumes of data and require seamless connectivity for their operational efficiency.

The 3016B leverages Fortinet's proprietary FortiOS operating system, which is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive security functionalities. FortiOS includes a variety of tools such as a next-generation firewall (NGFW), antivirus protection, web filtering, and application control, all incorporated into a single platform. This consolidation helps in simplifying management while providing extensive security coverage against a wide array of cyber threats.

Moreover, the Fortinet 3016B incorporates advanced threat intelligence capabilities powered by FortiGuard Labs. This allows the firewall to stay updated with real-time threat feeds, enabling the organization to respond proactively to emerging threats and vulnerabilities. The integration of AI-driven analytics enhances anomaly detection and helps in identifying potential breaches before they can escalate.

Another notable characteristic of the 3016B is its scalability. Designed for medium to large enterprises, it can easily integrate into existing infrastructure and scale as business needs grow. With support for multiple virtual domains (VDOMs), organizations can create isolated environments for different departments or functions, maintaining policy separations while optimizing resource utilization.

In terms of connectivity, the Fortinet 3016B offers various interfaces, including multiple 1G and 10G Ethernet ports, ensuring flexible deployment options. The device also supports high availability (HA) configurations, which provide redundancy and minimize downtime.

Overall, the Fortinet 3016B is an exceptional solution that combines superior security features with high performance and scalability, making it a prime choice for organizations looking to strengthen their network security posture without sacrificing efficiency. With its comprehensive capabilities, it empowers businesses to tackle today’s cybersecurity challenges effectively.