Cisco Secure Firewall vs FortiGate

Feature Cisco Secure Firewall FortiGate
Threat Intelligence

Cisco Talos Intelligence is Cisco's primary source of threat intelligence, complemented by Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (formerly Threat Grid) and Cisco Secure Endpoint Intelligence (formerly AMP for Endpoints)

Powered by FortiGuard Labs, which integrates AI-driven threat intelligence and a global network of sensors to detect and mitigate threats.

Intrusion Prevention (IPS)

Snort IPS with extensive rule-based detection and Talos threat feeds.

FortiGate’s IPS is backed by FortiGuard, offering real-time signature updates and behavior-based detection.
Encrypted Traffic Analysis

Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA): Detects malware in encrypted traffic without decryption.

FortiGate supports SSL inspection, but with potential performance impact, and includes AI-based detection for encrypted traffic threats.
Zero Trust & Identity-Based Security

Cisco ISE integration: Role-based access and dynamic segmentation.

Offers FortiAuthenticator for Zero Trust, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and identity-driven policy enforcement.
Cloud Security & SASE

Cisco Umbrella + Secure Firewall Cloud for cloud-based firewalling & SASE.

FortiGate offers FortiSASE, with FortiCloud for cloud security and integration with Fortinet’s SD-WAN solutions.
Automation & AI

SecureX orchestration for security automation & response.

AI-driven automation through FortiAnalyzer and FortiSOAR, with predictive analytics and response orchestration.
Policy Management

Firewall Management Center (FMC) with SecureX automation.

Uses FortiManager for policy control and automation across multiple FortiGate devices.

Zero Trust Capabilities Cisco integrates Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) via Duo Security and Cisco ISE.

Fortinet's Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is embedded in FortiOS, with strong segmentation and integration with FortiClient for endpoint security.

Sandboxing Uses Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (formerly Threat Grid) for deep file analysis, behavioral detection, and malware classification.

Uses FortiSandbox, an AI-powered cloud or on-prem solution for real-time malware detection and zero-day threat analysis.

Main Competitors

Palo Alto, Fortinet, Sophos.

Cisco, Palo Alto, Sophos, Sonicwall. 

  Cisco Secure Firewall FortiGate

Is it a suitable solution for all types of network environments, including small businesses?

 

Cisco Secure Firewall excels in providing advanced security capabilities, high scalability, and robust performance, making it a strong contender for large enterprises with complex security needs. Its comprehensive feature set, backed by the threat intelligence of Cisco Talos, positions it as a powerful solution for organizations facing sophisticated cyber threats.

FortiGate pricing is more adjusted to SMBs. Subscription bundles (FortiGuard) add advanced features like antivirus, web filtering, and IPS for about $100–$300 annually. It’s a cost-effective, all-in-one solution that balances security, performance, and value for growing.

FortiGate with its user-friendly interface, cost-effecitve licensing, and design tailored for local management with optional remote capabilities.
This makes it accessible for SMBs that may not have dedicated IT teams.

What is one of the most distinctive features?

Cisco's Encrypted Visibility Engine (EVE) analyzes encrypted traffic without decryption to detect threats and anomalies. Using machine learning and behavioral analytics, it identifies malware, policy violations, and suspicious activity while maintaining data privacy. EVE helps security teams monitor encrypted traffic efficiently, ensuring compliance and threat prevention without compromising encryption integrity. It enhances network security by providing visibility into encrypted communications, making it a key component of Cisco's cybersecurity solutions.

Exceptional performance-to-cost ratio: FortiGate's proprietary hardware, including custom ASICs, delivers high performance at a competitive price point. Users highlight that the performance per dollar is unmatched, making it a cost-effective solution for many organizations.

The FortiGate user interface is praised for its intuitiveness and ease of use, allowing administrators to manage configurations efficiently. While command line is available for advanced tasks, the UI simplifies day-to-day operations.

Common Criticisms

Complex Management Interface. Cisco Secure Firewall Management Center is a powerful, feature-rich platform that has improved over time but still suffers from significant management complexity, historical stability issues, and a less intuitive user experience compared to key competitors.

High Licensing Costs: Cisco's licensing model is frequently described as complex and expensive. Essential features such as Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and VPN capabilities often require additional licenses, increasing the total cost of ownership. 

Frequent Security Vulnerabilities: Users have expressed concerns about the number of critical vulnerabilities identified in FortiGate devices, particularly in recent years.

Certain advanced security features, such as Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), require additional licenses. Without these licenses, the firewall's capabilities are limited.

 

Cisco Secure Firewall Dashboard & UI

Cisco Partners

A Cisco Partner provides businesses with expert consultation, seamless deployment, cost optimization, and technical support. Below is a list of some of the top Cisco partners in the market.

  • Dataprise

    Dataprise is a new breed of managed service provider delivering powerhouse managed IT, cybersecurity, harmonious end-user support, cloud and data protection solutions to business across the US.

  • Konica Minolta

    It’s important to ensure that critical IT systems are always available to support core business functions, but maintaining IT systems with an in-house IT staff can be costly and inefficient.

  • eGroup

    Enabling Technologies (part of eGroup) builds a Secure, more connected, more enjoyable workplace using the Microsoft Security, Communications and Collaboration stack. Our perspective from thousands …

  • Arctic IT

    Arctic IT® is an experienced technology company that specializes in unique, scalable cloud and security solutions. Since 2002, we’ve been committed to building strong relationships and driving …

FortiGate Dashboard & UI

Fortinet Partners

A Fortinet Partner provides businesses with expert consultation, seamless deployment, cost optimization, and technical support. Below is a list of some of the top Fortinet partners in the market.

  • Konica Minolta

    It’s important to ensure that critical IT systems are always available to support core business functions, but maintaining IT systems with an in-house IT staff can be costly and inefficient.

  • Netrix Global

    With over 350 employees and top level certifications from all major IT vendors, Netrix is able to combine resources in a way no other IT consulting firm can. Our services are divided into practices …

  • Synoptek, Inc.

    Synoptek delivers accelerated business results through advisory led transformative systems integration and managed services. We partner with organizations worldwide to help them navigate the ever-…

  • Logically, Inc.

    Logically is the leading provider of Managed IT Services to small and midsize organizations. We help our customers leverage the power of information technology to achieve their goals by becoming …