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 4: 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-310B FortiOS 3.0 MR6 Install Guide

 

01-30006-0472-20080815

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Fortinet 310B manual Configuring, NAT vs. Transparent mode, NAT mode

310B specifications

The Fortinet 310B is a powerful next-generation firewall (NGFW) designed to meet the evolving needs of modern enterprises. As part of Fortinet's Security Fabric, the 310B offers robust security features combined with high performance, enhancing network security while maintaining ease of use.

One of the standout features of the Fortinet 310B is its high throughput capability. With up to 10 Gbps of firewall throughput and an impressive IPS throughput of 3.5 Gbps, the device is optimized for handling heavy network traffic with minimal latency. This makes it suitable for both medium and large-scale environments, where performance and speed are critical.

The Fortinet 310B integrates a comprehensive suite of security technologies. At its core is FortiOS, the operating system that powers Fortinet’s security appliances. FortiOS includes advanced threat protection capabilities such as intrusion prevention system (IPS), deep packet inspection, and antivirus scanning. These features help protect against a wide range of threats, including malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks, ensuring that networks are resilient against various cyber threats.

Another key characteristic of the Fortinet 310B is its multi-layered security architecture. The device supports a range of technologies such as SSL inspection, web filtering, and application control. By leveraging these functionalities, organizations can enforce granular security policies across different applications and users, improving overall visibility and control over the network environment.

The Fortinet 310B also incorporates FortiGate's unique Security Fabric technology, which enables seamless integration with other Fortinet products and third-party solutions. This interoperability allows for centralized management, simplified security operations, and enhanced threat intelligence sharing, creating a holistic security approach.

In addition to its security capabilities, the Fortinet 310B offers a variety of connectivity options, including multiple Ethernet ports and support for FortiLink, which allows for easy integration with FortiAP access points and FortiSwitches. This flexibility facilitates the deployment of secure network segments and wireless solutions.

The device also supports advanced features such as VPN capabilities for secure remote access, SD-WAN for optimizing network performance, and extensive reporting and logging for compliance and accountability. All these attributes make the Fortinet 310B a formidable choice for organizations looking to bolster their network security posture while maximizing operational efficiency. Overall, the Fortinet 310B stands out as a reliable and versatile solution in the realm of network security appliances.