September 30, 2025
Fortinet Hardware Refresh: Advice from Security Experts
As the digital landscape evolves, maintaining secure, high-performance infrastructure is critical. Fortinet's upcoming End of Support (EOS) dates for numerous models mark a pivotal moment for IT leaders.
Future-proof your network security
Fortinet has announced that a significant number of FortiGate, FortiSwitch, and FortiWiFi models will reach End of Support (EOS) in 2026 and 2027. For IT leaders, this is more than just a maintenance deadline—it's a chance to future-proof your network and align security investments with long-term business goals.
Why acting now matters
Operating unsupported hardware introduces critical risks:
- Security vulnerabilities – No patches mean open doors for cyber threats.
- No RMA or firmware updates – Hardware failures can cause extended downtime.
- Performance bottlenecks – Legacy devices can't keep pace with modern application and traffic demands.
By planning your refresh now, you can avoid reactive upgrades and instead take a proactive, strategic approach.
What's changing with the Fortinet refresh?
Fortinet's End of Support (EOS) announcement impacts a wide range of customers, from SMB to Enterprise to MSSP environments (not all model quantity or type listed):
- FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall: 70 models
- Fortinet LAN Edge - FortiSwitch: 19 models
- FortiGate FortiWiFi: 36 models
Full list of models and EOS dates can be found here.
Popular EOS best-sellers include devices still widely deployed in production networks today. Continuing to operate them beyond EOS not only jeopardizes uptime but limits your ability to adopt next-generation security capabilities.
Why the Fortinet refresh is strategic
Refreshing hardware isn't just about replacement—it's about transformation. With WWT and Fortinet, your refresh plan can include:
- Upgraded throughput and functionality – Deploy FortiGate next-generation firewalls (NGFW) for faster performance and deeper inspection.
- Security fabric integration – Consolidate point products into a unified, centrally managed security architecture.
- Enhanced automation and visibility – Improve operational efficiency across hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
- AI-Powered threat protection – Leverage Fortinet AI Security solutions for faster detection and response.
The advantage of partnering with WWT on your Fortinet refresh journey
WWT partners with Fortinet to proactively identify affected hardware, evaluate your security architecture and map an upgrade path tailored to your business. WWT services include:
- EOS impact review – Identify exactly which assets are at risk.
- Discovery call – Align refresh objectives with business priorities.
- Next-Gen Fortinet solutions review – Explore hardware and AI-driven options.
- Consultative planning – Optimize your refresh for cost, performance, and security outcomes.
- Bundled services – Installation, configuration, and responsible asset disposal.
- Executive summaries – Business case development, including revenue impact analysis.
- Our Advanced Technology Center (ATC) offers lab access and demos, so you can validate solutions before deployment.
Next steps
The Fortinet EOS deadline will arrive faster than expected. Don't wait until support runs out. Refresh now to stay secure, agile and ready for tomorrow.