FS-224E

Description

The Fortinet FortiSwitch FS‑224E is a mid‑range Layer 2/3 managed Ethernet switch with 24 Gigabit RJ‑45 ports plus 4 SFP uplink ports, designed for tight integration with FortiGate via FortiLink / Security Fabric. The FS‑224E is part of Fortinet’s 200‑series midrange switches, intended for wiring closets, branch offices, and access/aggregation layers in enterprise networks.

One of its key features is FortiLink integration — when paired with a FortiGate firewall, the FS‑224E can appear essentially as an extension of the FortiGate. This enables unified management (single-pane-of-glass) of switching, security policies, and user/device access. It supports both standalone operation (via CLI or GUI) or integration under FortiGate control.

Key Features

• FortiLink Integration: Seamless management through FortiGate devices, enabling centralized security and policy enforcement.

• High Performance: Offers a switching capacity of 56 Gbps and a forwarding rate of 83 million packets per second, ensuring efficient data handling.

• Flexible Deployment: Can be deployed in standalone mode or integrated into the Fortinet Security Fabric for enhanced security.

• Compact Design: Housed in a 1U rack-mountable form factor, suitable for space-constrained environments.

Integrated Security Fabric

By connecting to a FortiGate firewall via FortiLink, the FS-224E becomes an extension of the Fortinet Security Fabric. This integration allows for centralized management of security policies, user authentication, and device access control across both wired and wireless networks

Simplified Deployment and Management

The FS-224E supports both standalone and FortiLink-managed deployments. In FortiLink mode, it offers:

• Zero-touch provisioning, simplifying initial setup.

• Intuitive management interfaces, including GUI and CLI, for ease of configuration.

• Scalability, allowing for stacking up to 300 switches per FortiGate, depending on the model

Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support

The FS-224E-POE variant provides PoE+ support, delivering up to 180W across 12 ports. This feature is ideal for powering devices like IP phones and wireless access points directly through the network cable, reducing the need for additional power sources

Advanced Networking Features

• Layer 3 Routing: Supports static routing, VLANs, and IP routing, facilitating efficient network segmentation and traffic management.

• High-Speed Connectivity: Equipped with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4 SFP ports, the FS-224E offers flexible connectivity options, including fiber uplinks for high-bandwidth requirements.

• Stacking Support: Can be stacked with up to 300 switches per FortiGate, allowing for scalable network expansion.

High Performance and Reliability

With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4 SFP uplink ports, the FS-224E ensures:

• Wire-speed switching for efficient data handling.

• Store-and-forward forwarding mode to enhance data integrity.

• Redundant power supply support, ensuring continuous operation

Versatile Deployment Options

The FS-224E is suitable for various environments, including:

• Wiring closets and desktop installations.

• Converged network environments, enabling voice, data, and wireless traffic over a single network

• SD-Branch deployments, offering flexibility and scalability