SSL VPN modes of operation

Configuring a FortiGate SSL VPN

In web-only mode, the FortiGate unit acts as a secure HTTP/HTTPS gateway and authenticates remote users as members of a user group. After successful authentication, the FortiGate unit redirects the web browser to the web portal home page and the user can access the server applications behind the FortiGate unit.

Configuring the FortiGate unit involves selecting web-only-mode access in the user group settings and enabling the feature through SSL VPN configuration settings. The user group settings determine which server applications can be accessed. SSL encryption is used to ensure traffic confidentiality.

Web-only mode client requirements

The remote client computer must be equipped with the following software:

Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista, Linux, MacOS X, or UNIX operating system

Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 (or later), Netscape Navigator 7.0 (or later), Mozilla Foundation/Firefox 1.5 (or later), or Apple Safari 1.3 (or later)

If Telnet/ or RDP are used, Sun Java runtime environment 1.4 (or later), with Java applet access, JavaScript access, and enabled cookie acceptance

Note: Web browsers offer different SSL security capabilities. The FortiGate unit offers an SSL version 2 option through the CLI if required to support older browsers. In addition, the FortiGate unit supports a range of cipher suites for negotiating SSL communications with a variety of web browsers. The web browser must at least support a 64-bit cipher length.

Tunnel mode

Tunnel mode offers remote users the freedom to connect to the internal network using the traditional means of web-based access from laptop computers, as well as from airport kiosks, hotel business centers, and Internet cafés. If the applications on the client computers used by your user community vary greatly, you can deploy a dedicated SSL VPN client to any remote client through its web browser. The SSL VPN client encrypts all traffic from the remote client computer and sends it to the FortiGate unit through an SSL VPN tunnel over the HTTPS link between the web browser and the FortiGate unit. Also available is split tunneling, which ensures that only the traffic for the private network is sent to the SSL VPN gateway. Internet traffic is sent through the usual unencrypted route. This conserves bandwith and alleviates bottlenecks.

In tunnel mode, remote clients connect to FortiGate unit and the web portal login page using Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Foundation/Firefox, MacOS, or Linux. The FortiGate unit acts as a secure HTTP/HTTPS gateway and authenticates remote users as members of a user group. After successful authentication, the FortiGate unit redirects the web browser to the web portal home page. The user can then download the SSL VPN client (an ActiveX or Java plugin) and install it using controls provided through the web portal. SSL VPN tunnel mode can also be initiated from a standalone application on Windows/MacOS, and Unix.

 

FortiOS v3.0 MR7 SSL VPN User Guide

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Fortinet FORTIOS V3.0 MR7 manual Web-only mode client requirements, Tunnel mode

FORTIOS V3.0 MR7 specifications

Fortinet's FortiOS v3.0 MR7 marks a significant advancement in network security and management, providing organizations with enhanced features, technologies, and characteristics to better protect their IT environments. This version of FortiOS is designed to facilitate comprehensive security and optimized performance, ensuring that organizations can safeguard their networks against evolving threats.

One of the main features in FortiOS v3.0 MR7 is its robust firewall capabilities. The stateful firewall technology enables dynamic packet filtering based on predefined security policies. This strengthens the organization's perimeter defense by allowing or denying traffic based on user-defined rules. Additionally, the integrated Application Control feature extends the firewall's capabilities by identifying and controlling applications regardless of port usage, enabling organizations to enforce security policies on a finer-grained level.

FortiOS v3.0 MR7 also introduces advanced intrusion prevention system (IPS) functionalities. The next-generation IPS utilizes deep packet inspection and real-time threat intelligence to detect and block attacks before they can compromise the network. Coupled with Fortinet’s threat research team, which ensures timely updates of security signatures, this system helps organizations mitigate risks posed by sophisticated cyber threats.

Another key characteristic of FortiOS v3.0 MR7 is its enhanced VPN capabilities. The support for both SSL and IPsec VPN allows secure remote access for employees and offers flexible options for secure communication over the internet. This feature is essential for organizations that embrace remote work, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected regardless of the user's location.

In addition to its powerful security features, FortiOS v3.0 MR7 includes advanced reporting and logging capabilities. Users can generate detailed reports that highlight security events, traffic patterns, and performance metrics. This data not only improves visibility into network security but also assists in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Moreover, the platform's user-friendly interface enhances the overall management experience. Administrators can quickly configure settings, monitor activity, and respond to incidents effectively. With centralized management capabilities, FortiOS v3.0 MR7 allows organizations to manage multiple devices from a single console, simplifying operations and reducing administrative overhead.

In summary, Fortinet's FortiOS v3.0 MR7 integrates a wealth of security features, including a stateful firewall, advanced IPS, VPN support, and comprehensive reporting functions. Together, these technologies ensure that organizations can maintain a strong security posture in an increasingly complex threat landscape.