Fortinet FortiWLM Reviews

Name: Fortinet FortiWLM
Brand: Fortinet
Rating: 4.2 (23 reviews)

4.2 out of 5

23 reviews
95% willing to recommend

454 followers

What is Fortinet FortiWLM?

Consolidate security and wireless LAN management with our integrated wireless solutions. Single-pane-of-glass management for security and access without the need to add point products simplifies deployment and reduces management complexity. These solutions are highly scalable to support even the largest organizations and distributed enterprises.

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Fortinet FortiWLM is the #15 ranked solution in top Wireless LAN solutions. PeerSpot users give Fortinet FortiWLM an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. Fortinet FortiWLM is most commonly compared to Aruba Wireless: Fortinet FortiWLM vs Aruba Wireless. Fortinet FortiWLM is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 52% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 17% of all views.

Helped 815,854 peers since 2012

Featured reviews

Zachary Wheeler

President / CEO at Secure Solutions Center LLC

They need to do more with their marketing. That's what's wrong with them. Nobody knows they do all this other stuff. I love the product. For an enterprise-level system, you never have to explain why you're recommending Fortinet, whereas you might have to do that if you want to use the Ubiquiti Professional or the new Netgear line, but you don't have to explain Fortinet. It has been remarkable to work with. It would be nice if they had some smaller switches or hubs. They should offer two-port, three-port, or four-port devices so that you don't have to buy an eight-port switch, and you don't have to use an unmanaged element, but their product line is very complete, and I can't say enough about it.

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FransLegdeur

Owner at Falco Networks

We use a basic setup and the initial setup of Fortinet FortiWLM. The implementation process takes approximately one hour. To effectively manage your network, it's important to understand the concept of profiles. These profiles can be tailored to specific types of hardware and when that hardware is detected, it will automatically be configured to match the corresponding profile, ensuring all APs are consistently set up. It's a fantastic solution for network management. The bulk of the work involves physically connecting all the devices and ensuring they have the correct IP addresses. Once that is done, the logical setup is relatively simple and can be accomplished by navigating through the GUI to create profiles. I rate the initial setup of Fortinet FortiWLM a seven out of ten.

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Shariq Jamil

Technical Manager at Orbin

In comparison to the Extreme and UBNT wireless solutions, we find that Fortinet falls short in terms of validity management, practice management, and firmware arrangement. The initial setup is complex and has room for improvement. I would like to have some customized modifications to the radio bands so that we can see which is interfering with the wireless IP. If FortiWLM could provide a tool where the user could generate a heat map of the space in which the FortiWLM is operating, this would be a valuable addition to the solution. Most organizations rely on their existing knowledge of wireless before deploying a wireless solution. When we look at the market, we see many more commercial products which provide comprehensive tools. Fortinet has the basic tool, but I don't use it because it is not flexible enough. If Fortinet could provide us with flexible customization of band management, and add a special dashboard where the user can see other devices and settings, as well as a tool to generate a heat map in the next version, this would greatly improve the solution.

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Fortinet FortiWLM mindshare

As of November 2024, the mindshare of Fortinet FortiWLM in the Wireless LAN category stands at 2.1%, down from 2.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Wireless LAN

Key learnings from peers

Last updated Oct 31, 2024

Valuable Features

Fortinet FortiWLM offers valuable features like centralized management, ease of use, scalability, and cost-efficiency. It provides seamless roaming with Virtual Cell, a single-pane view for management, and advanced security integration. Users appreciate its ability to quickly configure SSIDs and VLANs, benefiting from the Security Fabric for comprehensive visibility. The Network-In-Control feature optimizes connections effectively. It's known for stability, adaptability, and excellent firewall integration within a unified management framework, supporting cost-effective expansions and configurations.

"The setup was easy."
"The security is a valuable feature."
"I use Fortinet FortiWLM for wireless communication and the internet."

Room for Improvement

Fortinet FortiWLM requires enhancements in centralized management and reporting features, which are currently less effective without FortiAnalyzer. The interface complexity and initial setup can be challenging, especially compared to competitors. The cost is high, yet frequent technology updates are needed to stay relevant, leaving users feeling outdated. Improvements in compatibility with Apple products and cross-platform integration are needed. Marketing and promotion are insufficient, contributing to limited awareness of advanced features like Virtual Cell and Single Channel Architecture.

"The platform's pricing needs improvement."
"The range needs some improvement and also the stability."
"The solution should improve user capacity."

ROI

Organizations experience varied ROI with Fortinet FortiWLM, typically between six to 12 months. Many report more sales and savings, plus reduced TCO by up to 15 percent compared to competitors. Retailers gain client insights through data analytics and wireless heat maps. Fortinet's central management eases network operation, resulting in positive returns for many. Some consider non-failure as ROI. Overall, Fortinet FortiWLM aids in achieving business returns.

Pricing

Enterprise users report Fortinet FortiWLM offers valuable pricing and reasonable licensing, though improvements in enterprise licensing are suggested. The removal of per-AP licensing is favored, yet return policies on RMAs draw criticism. Pricing is competitive, sometimes offering better deals than competitors, especially with included features. Perpetual licenses are required, and while overall prices can seem high, users often find them justifiable. Indoor access points incur a one-time cost, while outdoor units have annual fees.

"The product is highly expensive. I rate the pricing a ten."
"The solution is fairly priced."
"Fortinet FortiWLM's pricing is regular and competitive."

Popular Use Cases

Fortinet FortiWLM is used for wireless management in diverse environments, including remote locations, K-12 schools, healthcare, hospitality, and large office spaces. It supports secure wireless LAN solutions for service providers and integrates seamlessly with FortiGate firewall systems. Users highlight its high-performance WiFi, scalability, and unique V2 cell technology. The technology is also utilized in complex environments with advanced networking needs, emphasizing edge technology features and robust network security.

Service and Support

Fortinet FortiWLM customer service varies, with some rating it positively for professionalism and responsiveness, while others note average experiences requiring escalation. They report knowledgeable staff capable of addressing issues, although response times aren’t always prompt. Some highlight excellent interaction with support, citing thorough help and available staff. Consistency of service seems license-dependent, with higher-tier support offering faster assistance. Support is reported as understanding of technical challenges, helping users effectively navigate any issues encountered.

Deployment

Fortinet FortiWLM's initial setup is generally straightforward, intuitive, and user-friendly. Users report ease in deployment, with time frames varying based on project size. Experienced personnel can complete setups quickly, often requiring minimal support. Training is occasionally necessary, especially for more complex environments like industrial settings. Pre-deployment and staging facilitate smoother implementations. Network knowledge is essential for optimization, with correct planning crucial for efficiency. Fortinet's documentation and support are highlighted as helpful resources.

Scalability

Fortinet FortiWLM is highly scalable and suitable for various environments, handling numerous access points and users efficiently. Users appreciate its integration capabilities and long-term support. In both small and large enterprises, it meets scaling demands, offering diverse features for different needs. Performance remains high even when deployed with outdated models, and clients across sectors, from education to retail, find it versatile, offering visibility and control. Users rate it positively, aligning it with leading industry competitors.

Stability

Users find Fortinet FortiWLM very stable, with minimal issues. Many rate its stability between eight to ten, praising it for reliability and absence of major outages. Some note an initial adjustment period when deploying new versions but acknowledge enhancements in subsequent updates. Bugs are mostly minor and addressed promptly. High availability is supported, and there's satisfaction among clients, indicating confidence in the overall performance.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

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