Fortinet vs HPE Aruba Battlecard

Feature	FortiGate	HPE Aruba Networking
Threat Intelligence	Powered by FortiGuard Labs, which integrates AI-driven threat intelligence and a global network of sensors to detect and mitigate threats.	Uses AI-powered threat defense (e.g., Aruba Central threat insights and integrations with third-party tools).
Intrusion Prevention (IPS)	FortiGate’s IPS is backed by FortiGuard, offering real-time signature updates and behavior-based detection.	Aruba IDS/IPS capabilities integrated in gateway & APs; optional ClearPass for deeper integration.
Encrypted Traffic Analysis	FortiGate supports SSL inspection, but with potential performance impact, and includes AI-based detection for encrypted traffic threats.	Integrated with ClearPass Policy Manager for traffic visibility and anomaly detection.
Zero Trust & Identity-Based Security	Offers FortiAuthenticator for Zero Trust, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and identity-driven policy enforcement.	Aruba ClearPass for role-based access control and ZTNA enforcement.
Cloud Security & SASE	FortiGate offers FortiSASE, with FortiCloud for cloud security and integration with Fortinet’s SD-WAN solutions.	Aruba EdgeConnect for SASE; cloud-managed firewall capabilities via Aruba Central.
Automation & AI	AI-driven automation through FortiAnalyzer and FortiSOAR, with predictive analytics and response orchestration.	Aruba AIOps for automated issue resolution and optimization.
Policy Management	Uses FortiManager for policy control and automation across multiple FortiGate devices.	Aruba Central provides centralized policy management.
Local Agent	Fortinet Single Sign-On (FSSO) Agent enables user identity-based policies on FortiGate firewalls by integrating with Active Directory (AD) or other directory services.	Aruba VIA client for VPN; mostly agentless with ClearPass + SASE.
Sandboxing	Uses FortiSandbox, an AI-powered cloud or on-prem solution for real-time malware detection and zero-day threat analysis.	Integrates with third-party sandbox solutions (e.g., Palo Alto Wildfire or FireEye).
Main Competitors	Cisco, Palo Alto, Sophos, Sonicwall.	Cisco, Juniper, Fortinet.

	FortiGate	HPE Aruba Networking
Is it designed more effectively for enterprises or SMBs?	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..	HPE Aruba Networking offers a user-friendly, cloud-managed approach with a focus on ease of use and integration within the Aruba ecosystem. Its budget-friendly entry-level options make it an attractive choice for SMBs, while Aruba Central provides a centralized platform for managing security and networking infrastructure.
Distinctive Features	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.	Ease of use and management of the Aruba Central platform with ease of deployment and management of Aruba's access points. It makes it easy to create different network segments, and managing network inventory. AI-powered analytics for troubleshooting, network optimization, and security.
Common Criticisms	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.	Licensing Complexity: Some users find the licensing model for Aruba products, especially when adding new devices or utilizing advanced features, to be complex. With the need to purchase specific licenses for each access point for certain services being a point of frustration. Firmware Issues: Firmware bugs and stability issues with new firmware updates are not uncommon.

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.

Netsync Network Solutions
Based in Houston, with sales and engineering assets throughout Texas, Netsync uses a true business consultative approach to determine clients’ requirements and architects innovative and synergistic …
All Covered
All Covered, a division of Konica Minolta, is a leading provider of managed IT services and solutions for organizations across North America. All Covered leverages decades of collective industry …
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-…

HPE Aruba Networking Dashboard & UI

Aruba Partners

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

Burwood Group, Inc.
Burwood Group was founded in Chicago, IL with five U.S. offices including 24x7 Operations Centers in San Diego, CA and Normal, IL. Whether you are developing strategy, deploying technology, or …
NWN Corporation
NWN Carousel is a leading Cloud Communications Service Provider (CCSP) focused on transforming the customer and workspace experience for commercial, enterprise and public sector organizations. The …
Meridian IT Inc.
Meridian IT is part of Meridian Group International, a collection of companies engaged in IT systems integration and equipment leasing. Over two-thirds of our staff is made up of vendor certified …
Mainline Information Systems
Mainline recommends, designs, and supports IT solutions that help businesses increase their effectiveness. With more than 400 professionals around the country, and numerous certified architects …