Introduction to LAN Edge Device Configuration
In today’s rapidly evolving network environments, configuring LAN edge devices is crucial for optimizing network performance and ensuring robust security. The LAN Edge Devices connector card in FortiGate displays vital information for managing FortiGates, FortiAPs, FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders within the Security Fabric.
This blog post provides an easy-to-follow guide on setting up and registering these devices to maintain a secure and efficient network.
Why Configure LAN Edge Devices?
LAN edge devices like FortiAPs and FortiSwitches play a vital role in managing network access points and switches effectively. By configuring these devices, you can:
- Enhance network security
- Improve network performance and bandwidth management
- Ensure authorized access to network resources
Getting Started with FortiGate and LAN Edge Devices
The LAN Edge Devices connector card offers a summary view of the FortiGates, FortiAPs, FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders within the Security Fabric. This view displays information on the device type, number of devices, and alerts for unregistered or unauthorized devices.
If any devices lack a green checkmark in the Status column, hover over the status message to view the tooltip for the necessary action. Unregistered FortiAPs and FortiSwitches can be easily registered through the guidance provided in these tooltips.
Registering a FortiSwitch—Step-by-Step Guide
To bring a FortiSwitch under your Security Fabric, follow these comprehensive steps:
- Connect the device to the root FortiGate.
- Go to System > Firmware & Registration on the root FortiGate. (For FortiExtenders, navigate to Network > FortiExtenders > Managed FortiExtenders.)
- Select the unregistered device and click Register.
- The Device Registration pane will display, and the FortiGate will verify the registration information.
- Once the registration process is concluded, click Close.
The procedure is similar for FortiAPs and FortiExtenders. If a device requires authorization before registration, refer to the instructions in Authorizing Devices.
Additional Resources
- For FortiAP configuration: Configuring the FortiGate interface to manage FortiAP units and related authorization resources.
- For FortiSwitch setup: Discovering, authorizing, and deauthorizing FortiSwitch units.
- For FortiExtender integration: Adding a FortiExtender and FortiExtender and FortiGate integration.
Conclusion
Configuring LAN Edge devices like FortiAPs, FortiSwitches, and FortiExtenders is an essential task to secure your network and optimize its performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your devices are properly integrated within the Security Fabric, providing a seamless and secure network experience.
Start your journey to secure and efficient networking with FortiGate today!