Fortinet FortiAP vs Fortinet FortiWLM comparison

Fortinet FortiAP and Fortinet FortiWLM are both solutions in the Wireless LAN category. Fortinet FortiAP is ranked #12 with an average rating of 8.4, while Fortinet FortiWLM is ranked #17 with an average rating of 9.0. Fortinet FortiAP holds a 4.8% mindshare in Wireless LAN, compared to Fortinet FortiWLM’s 1.9% mindshare. Additionally, 92% of Fortinet FortiAP users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 95% of Fortinet FortiWLM users who would recommend it.

Fortinet FortiAP

Read 14 Fortinet FortiAP reviews

2,269 Views
1,984 Comparison Views

92% willing to recommend

Fortinet FortiWLM

Read 27 Fortinet FortiWLM reviews

2,259 Views
2,088 Comparison Views

95% willing to recommend

Fortinet FortiAP

Fortinet FortiWLM

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Oct 31, 2024

Fortinet FortiWLM and FortiAP compete in the network security and management category, offering integration with FortiGate for a unified experience. FortiWLM stands out for its centralized management capabilities and comprehensive security architecture, while FortiAP features Network-In-Control for optimizing client connections.

Features: FortiWLM provides centralized management with a single pane of glass, enhancing deployment and analytics collection. Its security architecture includes firewalls and wireless LANs. FortiAP offers Network-In-Control for optimized client connections, supports the latest security components, and allows users to manage everything through FortiGate.

Room for Improvement: FortiWLM could benefit from better promotion of Virtual Cell and Single Channel Architecture and improved centralized management. Faster adaptation to new technologies is also desired. FortiAP requires enhancements in guest management automation, improved signal performance in certain environments, and reduced configuration complexity.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: FortiWLM and FortiAP offer on-premises deployment, with FortiAP also available in a hybrid cloud option. FortiWLM is praised for good technical support, though response times can vary. FortiAP support is generally positive, with knowledgeable staff, but complex issues may require escalation.

Pricing and ROI: FortiWLM is competitively priced, offering cost savings and enhanced ROI for educational clients, though facing challenges with return processes. FortiAP is a reasonably priced solution compared to competitors like Cisco, but some perceive it as pricier. Both products offer substantial ROI potential, especially when integrated with Fortinet's Security Fabric, providing comprehensive network visibility and lower total cost of ownership.

To learn more, read our detailed Fortinet FortiAP vs. Fortinet FortiWLM Report (Updated: March 2025).

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiAP vs. Fortinet FortiWLM

March 2025

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Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

Fortinet FortiAP

Ranking in Wireless LAN

12th

Average Rating

8.4

Reviews Sentiment

7.6

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Fortinet FortiWLM

Ranking in Wireless LAN

17th

Average Rating

8.4

Reviews Sentiment

7.3

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Mindshare comparison

As of April 2025, in the Wireless LAN category, the mindshare of Fortinet FortiAP is 4.8%, up from 0.4% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Fortinet FortiWLM is 1.9%, down from 2.1% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Wireless LAN

Featured Reviews

Yati Gharat

Chief Technology Officer at Litmus

Integrates well with Fortinet products, but there are signal issues in the outdoor environment

FortiAP is very good in an indoor environment, but we are struggling with the outdoor environment. That is where we are having certain issues. We are not 100% happy with it. With the indoor environment, we are okay, but we are facing some issues when certain voice-related calls go from wireless points. There are certain drops, and we have faced these issues on an ongoing basis. We also have other vendors such as Aruba and Meraki, and we do not face any issues when there is a Teams or Zoom meeting going on. It could be that FortiAP is okay, but that particular device or appliance is not capable of handling that much load of voice and video. This might be the issue. RF Spectrum Analysis helps to understand what is the coverage and hotspots related to a particular access point, but then when we bought it, we did heat mapping through different vendors. If there are any rogue APs, we can identify them with RF Spectrum Analysis. We can see what the coverage area is, but there are some issues with that. Some of the offices have thick glasses, or the cabins are different, so in the RF coverage, what is shown is not what we get on the practical grounds. There are some issues with signal performance. It has the basic functionality that is mostly used, but there are certain devices that are not able to interconnect. When there is any issue or problem, if the administrator can get some information about that, that will be good. With Meraki and Aruba, we get certain beautiful things. If those can be integrated into this solution, it will be more beneficial, but we understand that being a security company, Fortinet's focus is on security.

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Zachary Wheeler

President / CEO at Secure Solutions Center LLC

Impressive manufacturing quality, highly durable, and very easy to deploy

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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Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"I like FortiAP's performance and stability. The reporting is also quite good."

"The stability of the solution is very high."

"FortiAP's integration using SSID configuration for the input/output makes deploying permission rules easier."

"Fortinet FortiAPs are useful for small to medium-scale companies where there are budget concerns."

"The most valuable aspect of Fortinet FortiAP is the support."

"The integration is efficient, allowing for management through the firewall."

"If we have FortiClient installed on multiple devices, it is seamless to connect with FortiAP. It supports passwordless authentication as well. That is a great thing about it."

"We really don't need to call technical support. Any time we have had to call, they've been great."

More Fortinet FortiAP pros

"Although there are a few steps, the initial setup is pretty straightforward."

"The product is a stable solution."

"The security is a valuable feature."

"Having the single pane of glass, by using the Fortinet Security Fabric, allows us to tighten security, and more easily and quickly create additional VLANs to help protect data. Rules in the firewall mean we can protect data and systems so that, should anything go wrong, any security issue is held to an individual device."

"For me, the ease of setup and the rugged nature in harsh environments are most valuable. So, durability and ease of use have been its best features."

"The greatest advantage is the security fabric Fortinet offers."

"Overall, I would rate the solution a ten out of ten."

"I found that It's really good when comparing it to any other product or it is much better in terms of features that the customer requires."

More Fortinet FortiWLM pros

Cons

"The improvement factor could be in APs. Also, it could have a control, like MAC address."

"Technical support is a pain. Fortinet has to get its act together. If you don't pay for premium service, you will have issues."

"FortiAP is very good in an indoor environment, but we are struggling with the outdoor environment."

"There is nothing that particularly comes to mind for improvement."

"There is room for improvement in the product by expanding the number of SSIDs that can be broadcast."

"The wireless functionality is not the best."

"I would like to have automation capabilities that would help us reduce the configuration steps."

"The product fails to offer default access points to deal with the areas revolving around configurations."

More Fortinet FortiAP cons

"There are currently issues with Fortinet's software quality."

"There are currently issues with Fortinet's software quality. We have concerns regarding the frequent updates needed because of short software cycles."

"Documentation could be improved."

"The interface could certainly do with some improvement. We have other customers with WiFi networks, and they always use Ubiquiti. With Ubiquiti, it's a much better user interface, and it is much easier to configure."

"In terms of improvements, the price is higher than I would like. A reduction in pricing would be beneficial."

"The platform's pricing needs improvement."

"There is very little publicly available information about Virtual Cell and Single Channel Architecture. Promotion of the overall technology is limited as well. Being more vocal about a product that has many advantages would go a long way to eliminating a lot of the confusion and negative perception about Virtual Cell and Single Channel Architecture."

"One area that needs improvement is the configuration aspect, which is more challenging compared to other products, despite Fortinet FortiWLM being a popular brand in Sri Lanka."

More Fortinet FortiWLM cons

Pricing and Cost Advice

"If I compare it with the other enterprise products, the price is good."

"Fortinet FortiAP offers a more cost-effective solution compared to Palo Alto and Check Point."

"The devices under Fortinet are not expensive. The solution's licensing part is expensive."

"On a scale of one to ten with ten being the most expensive, I would rate FortiAP a six."

"We purchased perpetual licensing, and additional costs may vary depending on the services acquired from Fortinet."

"The product is available at a very comfortable price for my company compared to the other products available in the market. The prices of products from Meraki and Aruba are high compared to those of Fortinet."

"FortiAP is more expensive than some other options."

"Fortinet would do something with their pricing model to attract smaller business users and eliminate the mandatory service contracts."

"To save yourself from increased setup and maintenance costs, I highly recommend undertaking a proper site survey from the beginning."

"The price of Fortinet FortiWLM is reasonable compared to the other vendors. We are using a five-year license."

"If a customer already is a FortiGate customer, the cost to go to the FortiAP is incredibly affordable, because you already have the controller."

"The product is highly expensive. I rate the pricing a ten."

"For indoor access points, there is a one-time cost, upfront, whereas outdoor access points have an annual fee."

"There is a perpetual license required for this solution and the price could be reduced."

"Support contracts typically cost approximately $100.00 per year."

More Fortinet FortiWLM pricing and cost advice

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

11%

Government

Comms Service Provider

Manufacturing Company

Computer Software Company

15%

Financial Services Firm

Comms Service Provider

Manufacturing Company

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

Questions from the Community

What do you like most about FortiAP?

If we have FortiClient installed on multiple devices, it is seamless to connect with FortiAP. It supports passwordless authentication as well. That is a great thing about it.

See all answers

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for FortiAP?

Fortinet solutions are more cost-effective compared to Cisco. The license costs for Fortinet are more affordable when considering licensing costs with other leaders like Cisco.

See all answers

What needs improvement with FortiAP?

I cannot pinpoint the exact improvements needed at the moment. However, security is always a concern for any business, and the network should not be compromised easily. There should be alerts to in...

See all answers

What do you like most about Fortinet FortiWLM?

The security is a valuable feature.

See all answers

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Fortinet FortiWLM?

While the pricing of Fortinet FortiWLM is a bit high, it remains effective. However, the cost could be better if reduced.

See all answers

What needs improvement with Fortinet FortiWLM?

In terms of improvements, the price is higher than I would like. A reduction in pricing would be beneficial.

See all answers

Comparisons

Ruckus Wireless vs Fortinet FortiAP

Compared 22% of the time

Aruba Access Points vs Fortinet FortiAP

Compared 21% of the time

Ubiquiti WLAN vs Fortinet FortiAP

Compared 19% of the time

Cisco Wireless vs Fortinet FortiAP

Compared 13% of the time

Cisco Meraki Wireless LAN vs Fortinet FortiAP

Compared 9% of the time

More Fortinet FortiAP Competitors

Aruba Wireless vs Fortinet FortiWLM

Compared 26% of the time

Cisco Wireless vs Fortinet FortiWLM

Compared 18% of the time

Cisco Meraki Wireless LAN vs Fortinet FortiWLM

Compared 12% of the time

Ruckus Wireless vs Fortinet FortiWLM

Compared 11% of the time

Cambium Networks Wireless LAN vs Fortinet FortiWLM

Compared 8% of the time

More Fortinet FortiWLM Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiAP

April 2025

Download Fortinet FortiAP product report

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiWLM

April 2025

Download Fortinet FortiWLM product report

Also Known As

No data available

FortiWLM, FortiAP, Fortinet AP/OAP, Meru Wireless LAN

Overview

Fortinet FortiAP provides wireless network access for industries such as banking, healthcare, and logistics. It enhances connectivity with FortiGate and FortiSwitch, ensuring secure data exchange in settings like offices and malls.

Fortinet FortiAP is integral for managing connected devices across sectors. It integrates seamlessly with Fortinet products, enhancing security and connectivity. Users benefit from a unified console that simplifies configuration and monitoring without additional controllers. The support for passwordless authentication and cloud visibility adds value, while its use in environments like shopping centers and offices facilitates secure data sharing and access.

What are the key features of Fortinet FortiAP?

Integration with FortiGate and FortiAnalyzer: Simplifies network management and monitoring.
Passwordless Authentication: Enhances security and accessibility.
Cloud Dashboard: Provides comprehensive visibility over network activities.
Direct Control from FortiGate: Eliminates the need for separate controllers.
SSID Customization: Supports tailoring of wireless access.

What benefits should users expect from Fortinet FortiAP?

Efficient Network Management: Centralized control and configuration simplify operations.
Comprehensive Reporting: Transparent insights for improved decision-making.
Secure Access: Protects data through advanced security measures.
Seamless Connectivity: Improves user experience with simplified networking.

In industries like banking and healthcare, Fortinet FortiAP is deployed to enhance network security and provide reliable access. Retailers leverage its capabilities in shopping centers, while warehouses benefit from its reliable connectivity to support seamless operations. Managed service providers use it to deliver tailored solutions, ensuring effective network segmentation and coverage.

Fortinet

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.

Fortinet

Sample Customers

Information Not Available

Black Gold Regional Schools, Amadeus Hospitality, Jefferson County, Chunghwa Telecom, City of Boroondara, Dimension Data

Buyer's Guide

Fortinet FortiAP vs. Fortinet FortiWLM

March 2025

Free Report: Fortinet FortiAP vs. Fortinet FortiWLM

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