1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your FORTINET FG-100D FortiGate-100D Network VPN Security Firewall. The FortiGate-100D is designed to deliver integrated security for small and medium enterprises, offering robust network protection and VPN capabilities.
Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Safety Information
- Ensure the device is installed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
- Use only the power adapter supplied with the device or an approved replacement.
- Do not expose the device to water or excessive humidity.
- Avoid placing the device near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
- Disconnect power before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
3. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- FORTINET FG-100D FortiGate-100D Appliance
- Power Cable
- Rack-mount Kit (if applicable)
- Quick Start Guide
4. Physical Overview
4.1 Front Panel
The front panel of the FortiGate-100D features various ports and indicator lights for network connectivity and status monitoring.

Figure 4.1: Front view of the FortiGate-100D appliance. This image displays the 20 GE RJ45 ports, 2 shared media pairs, USB ports, console port, and status indicators (Power, Alarm, Status).
- Power LED: Indicates power status.
- Alarm LED: Indicates system alarms or errors.
- Status LED: Indicates overall system operational status.
- USB Ports: For connecting USB devices.
- Console Port: RJ45 port for local management access.
- WAN1/WAN2 Ports: Gigabit Ethernet ports for Wide Area Network connections.
- DMZ Port: Gigabit Ethernet port for a Demilitarized Zone.
- MGMT Port: Dedicated management port.
- HA Ports: Ports for High Availability configuration.
- Internal Switch Ports (1-16): Gigabit Ethernet ports for internal network connections.
- Shared Media Pairs: Includes 2 GE RJ45 and 2 GE SFP slots for flexible connectivity.
4.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel includes the power input and grounding point.

Figure 4.2: Rear view of the FortiGate-100D appliance. This image shows the AC power input (100-240V AC, 60-50Hz, 3-1.5A) and the grounding screw.
- AC Line Input: Power connector for the appliance.
- Grounding Screw: For connecting an earth ground.
5. Setup
5.1 Mounting the Appliance
The FortiGate-100D can be deployed as a desktop unit or rack-mounted.
Desktop Installation:
- Place the appliance on a flat, stable surface.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the device.
Rack-mount Installation:
- Attach the provided rack-mount ears to the sides of the appliance using the screws.
- Secure the appliance into a standard 19-inch equipment rack.
5.2 Connecting Power
- Connect the power cable to the AC Line Input on the rear panel of the FortiGate-100D.
- Plug the other end of the power cable into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Press the power switch to turn on the device. The Power LED on the front panel should illuminate.
5.3 Network Connections
Connect your network cables to the appropriate ports on the front panel:
- Connect your internet service provider (ISP) modem or router to one of the WAN ports.
- Connect your internal network switches or devices to the Internal Switch Ports (1-16).
- For initial configuration, you may connect a computer directly to the MGMT port or use the Console port with a serial cable.
5.4 Initial Configuration Access
To access the FortiGate-100D for initial configuration:
- Web-based Manager: Connect a computer to the MGMT port or an internal port. Configure your computer's IP address to be in the same subnet as the FortiGate's default management IP (e.g., 192.168.1.99). Open a web browser and navigate to the FortiGate's IP address (e.g.,
https://192.168.1.99). - Command Line Interface (CLI): Connect a serial cable from your computer's serial port to the FortiGate's Console port. Use a terminal emulator (e.g., PuTTY) with settings: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
Refer to the FortiGate documentation for detailed initial configuration steps and default login credentials.
6. Operating the FortiGate-100D
6.1 Indicator Lights
Monitor the front panel LEDs for operational status:
- Power LED (Green): Solid green indicates the device is powered on.
- Alarm LED (Red/Amber):
- Solid Red: Critical system error.
- Flashing Amber: Minor system warning.
- Status LED (Green/Amber):
- Solid Green: System operating normally.
- Flashing Green: System activity.
- Solid Amber: System boot-up or shutdown in progress.
6.2 Basic Functions
The FortiGate-100D provides comprehensive security features:
- Firewall: Controls network traffic based on security policies.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Establishes secure connections over public networks.
- Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Detects and prevents network attacks.
- Antivirus/Anti-malware: Protects against malicious software.
- Web Filtering: Controls access to websites based on categories.
Detailed configuration and operation of these features are managed through the FortiGate's web-based manager or CLI. Refer to the official Fortinet documentation for advanced configurations.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Firmware Updates
Regularly update the FortiGate firmware to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to new features. Firmware updates can be performed via the web-based manager or CLI. Always back up your configuration before performing a firmware upgrade.
7.2 Cleaning
To clean the exterior of the device, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, as they may damage the device. Ensure the ventilation openings are free from dust and obstructions.
7.3 Configuration Backup
It is highly recommended to regularly back up your FortiGate configuration. This allows for quick restoration of settings in case of an issue or device replacement. Configuration backups can be saved to a local computer or a remote server.
8. Troubleshooting
8.1 No Power
- Check if the power cable is securely connected to both the device and the electrical outlet.
- Verify that the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
- Ensure the power switch on the rear panel is in the 'ON' position.
8.2 No Network Connectivity
- Check all Ethernet cable connections to ensure they are secure.
- Verify that the link/activity LEDs on the connected ports are illuminated.
- Confirm network settings (IP addresses, subnet masks, gateways) are correctly configured on the FortiGate and connected devices.
- Check firewall policies to ensure traffic is not being blocked.
8.3 System Not Responding
- Attempt to access the device via the Console port using CLI.
- If the device is completely unresponsive, perform a power cycle by disconnecting and reconnecting the power cable.
- If issues persist, consider performing a factory reset (refer to Fortinet documentation for specific steps, as this will erase all configurations).
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | FG-100D |
| Brand | FORTINET |
| Product Dimensions | 11.73 x 17.01 x 1.73 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.48 pounds (4300 Grams) |
| Ports | 20 x GE RJ45 (1 x DMZ, 1 x Mgmt, 2 x HA, 16 x internal switch), 2 x shared media pairs (2 x GE RJ45, 2 x GE SFP slots) |
| Onboard Storage | 32GB |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Mounting | Desktop, Rack-mountable |
| Manufacturer | Fortinet, Inc |
| First Available | August 14, 2012 |
10. Warranty Information
FORTINET products typically come with a limited hardware warranty. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, including duration and coverage, please refer to the warranty statement provided with your product or visit the official Fortinet website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
11. Technical Support
For technical assistance, product documentation, or to report issues, please contact Fortinet Technical Support. You can find support resources, knowledge base articles, and contact information on the official Fortinet support portal:
Fortinet Support Website: https://support.fortinet.com
Before contacting support, please have your product model number (FG-100D) and serial number ready.





