Fortinet FortiMail Reviews

It operates as an alternative mail server, particularly adept at receiving and rescanning messages before they reach the intended recipients.

FortiMail possesses notable strengths, and one key feature is its store-and-forward concept.

It could benefit from enhancing its functionality, especially in terms of advanced filtering. Introducing features such as AI-based and cloud-based filtering could significantly improve mail security. Fortinet should consider developing more robust protection mechanisms, particularly for cloud-based environments. Currently, users often refrain from placing Fortinet in front of Office 365 Exchange unless it's a cloud-based solution. Improving the upgrade process, making it more user-friendly, and simplifying the management of hardware components could enhance the overall user experience and appeal of Fortinet's email security solution.

I would rate its stability capabilities nine out of ten.

Regarding scalability, the challenge lies in the licensing model tied to the hardware appliance. The current setup necessitates choosing between a higher or lower capacity appliance, creating inefficiencies. For instance, if you opt for a smaller appliance designed for up to a hundred users and the client has fewer users, you end up paying for unused capacity. On the other hand, choosing a higher-level appliance for a larger user base may result in unnecessary excess capacity and costs. It would be advantageous if Fortinet could address this issue by offering more flexible licensing options. This way, clients could pay for the specific number of users they have without being constrained by preset appliance capacities. This adjustment would enhance the scalability and cost-effectiveness of Fortinet's email security solution.

Initially, when reaching out to Fortinet's tier-one support, we observed effective resolution of issues. However, at the entry-level, it seems that there's a repetition of updating tickets, and the problems persist. Having worked with Fortinet for an extended period, I've noticed a shift in the support dynamic. Either the personnel at the first level lack a complete understanding of the issues, or they are relatively junior, leading to extended resolution times for even minor concerns. Previously, their responsiveness was quick and efficient, with a maximum of 24 hours for a technical person to address an issue. However, recent changes in their approach may be contributing to the longer turnaround times. The process of logging a technical call and receiving a response has become somewhat extended, even for smaller issues. I would rate it six out of ten.

Neutral

I often recommend exploring alternative products that diverge from the appliance-based approach. One notable option is Marshal from Paradigm, which was previously known as NetIQ. Marshal operates as software deployed on a server, handling inbound scanning, and forwarding emails based on established policies. This on-premises solution ensures that emails undergo scanning before reaching the main server, providing a robust layer of security. Other alternatives include GFI MailEssentials, Mimecast, and FortiGuard. Each of these products has its unique features and pricing structures. I've had positive experiences with Enhanced Security, our own rebranded solution. This cost-effective option is specifically tailored for SME segments, running seamlessly for the past four years. It is AI-based, cloud-based and has demonstrated its compatibility with various email platforms, including online exchange servers, on-premises servers, shared hosting, and Google Suite. Users have found it to be a reliable and efficient choice for email security.

The initial setup of Fortinet is not suitable for everyone; it requires a solid understanding of how email systems function, making it less accessible for entry-level or junior technicians. Proper comprehension of mail concepts is crucial for a successful deployment. Incorrect configurations may lead to misleading outcomes, potentially causing disruptions in both incoming and outgoing emails. 

Upgrading the storage requires a more involved process, as it is not a simple plug-and-play scenario. Users must go through the entire setup again, which can be a cumbersome task.

The pricing is on the higher side.

While FortiMail provides a valuable option for those focused on transparent mail filtering or security solutions, it may not be the preferred choice for users accustomed to the features offered by platforms like Microsoft Exchange. In the SME segment, factors such as functionality, ease of use, and cost play a significant role. Many businesses in this category may find cloud-based solutions more appealing due to lower costs, simplified maintenance, and performance considerations. If an organization operates in the enterprise segment and has a substantial budget, considering Fortinet might be a viable option. However, for the SME segment, I would not recommend it due to the cost involved and the complexities associated with yearly renewals. Implementing Fortinet requires a level of technical expertise, particularly in understanding how mail servers function. Overall, I would rate seven out of ten.

We use Fortinet FortiMail to protect our corporate maintenance. It is a very good solution.

It is one of the most efficient solutions in our environment. We have more than nine hundred users. All of these users are protected by Fortinet FortiMail.          

It would be helpful if Fortinet FortiMail could monitor from a smartphone. 

I have been using Fortinet FortiMail since 2019.

There is no downtime and I believe it is stable.

It is scalable. We are planning to upgrade it in the coming stages. 

Every six months, without any charge, they conduct a thorough examination for us. This includes checking if the configuration aligns with our requirements. They provide recommendations for corrections, particularly in cases where potential vulnerabilities or backdoors are identified. Their proactive approach contributes to the security of our environment. The assistance they provide every six months is prompt, cooperative, and delivered in a friendly manner.

Positive

We previously used Microsoft ISA for our security needs, but we encountered challenges with the packages provided by Microsoft, prompting us to explore alternative solutions. After conducting assessments and evaluations, Fortinet FortiGate emerged as the most efficient and effective option from a security perspective. Its ease of deployment, straightforward monitoring tools, and user-friendly interface distinguish it, providing a seamless experience in contrast to other solutions like Check Point, which were deemed complex and challenging by clients in their reviews. Fortinet's simplicity, ease of understanding, and the ability to generate reports effortlessly, including automatic report configurations without reliance on emails, led us to select Fortinet as the preferred solution for our security requirements.

It is pretty simple and straightforward. It doesn't take a long time. 

The pricing is reasonable.

I would rate it 10 out of 10. 

We primarily use the solution to protect the mail of our customers. We have a big device installed in our data center and we offer managed services. Most of our clients have Office 365 and they need that protected. 

The antiphishing capabilities are very good. 

It has good antispam features. 

The solution is stable. 

It would be better if it were easier to install.

The solution doesn't scale easily.

I started using this solution for a couple of years.

We haven't had any issues with the solution. It is stable and reliable. There are no bugs or glitches, and it doesn't crash or freeze. 

The solution is a bit scalable. However, that's based on the size of the hardware that's available at the outset. If you are planning to install dedicated hardware, you need to size the device to meet the needs. 

I've never dealt with technical support. That would be handled by another department. 

I also have some experience with Check Point. I've recently looked into comparisons between Check Point and Fortinet to show to a client. I find Check Point Harmony easier to set up.

The initial setup could be easier as it is a bit difficult. I'd rate the ease of implementation six out of ten.

We have hardware in our data center. For us, this is deployed on-premises; however, for our clients, it's available on the cloud. 

I'd rate the solution seven out of ten. 

We're partners and resellers. 

Our main use case for FortiMail is to protect emails. It acts as a security appliance focusing on emails and securing the inbox. It checks the content of the mail itself and the links that accompany the emails most of the time.

We use FortiMail as our email security for our organization.

The price gives a good review of emails. The anti-spam functionality is good and works well.

FortiMail has some latency issues and sometimes takes time to receive emails. Text emails without URLs also take time to forward. Accessing links in received emails can take time.

I have used FortiMail for one year.

It is a stable product. That said, there is some latency.

Customer support has some delays and is not as expected. It needs improvement.

Neutral

I used Cisco secure email before, which was more expensive, complicated, and harder to deploy compared to FortiMail. Fortinet is easier to deploy, troubleshoot, check the logs, and is cheaper.

There is a good return on investment between eight to nine out of ten. Deployment time is fast.

The pricing and licensing are advantageous. The price is between eight and nine.

I evaluated Cisco for email security.

Out of ten, nine points might be a very high score for this solution, however, eight is more reasonable. I'd rate the solution, therefore, eight out of ten.

Fortinet FortiMail is a mail security gateway that you can deploy on cloud to secure your email on Office 365 or Gmail. You can use Fortinet FortiMail on an on-premises model also. Fortinet FortiMail is used to filter malicious or spam emails sent into a user's network.

The most valuable feature of the solution stems from the fact that it has multiple profile sessions, like anti-spam sessions, content filters, and anti-virus. It has integration with sandbox also. You can ensure data leakage prevention through the content filter, and you can control file formats in both inbound and outgoing emails from the organization. An anti-spam technique and zero-day technique are characteristics of the tool, along with the ability to filter emails based on IP addresses or the domain of the sender.

As a customer, I need a stable update in the product that stays for a long time instead of having to deal with frequent updates.

I have experience with Fortinet FortiMail.

It is a stable solution.

In terms of scalability and availability, Fortinet FortiMail supports high availability for multiple appliances or devices. The to has the ability to configure cache rules.

My company has deployed the product multiple times on the cloud and on an on-premises model. Our company has also taken care of the deployment whenever the server or gateway were moved. In general, my company has dealt with a wide range of customers using the tool.

The technical support for the solution is very good. The tool offers multiple levels of support, and most of the tickets can be resolved by the product's L1 support team. It is rare to use L2 or L3 support.

In 2016, I worked with Cisco Secure Email, formerly known as Cloud Email Security. I think FortiMail is better in all areas compared to other tools. I still work with Cisco but focus more on FortiMail.

The product's initial setup phase was very easy.

After the initial configuration of virtual machines or appliances, you create a connector to Exchange or the email server and create a security profile according to customer needs, then create a policy to control all incoming or outgoing emails of your customer's organization.

The product's licensing part depends on the number of mailboxes and the hard disk needed by customers. The cost of the license depends on the number of mailboxes and the number of emails.

With the DLP format, you can control the format or hash the emails that go outside your organization. In FortiMail, you can locate a shared directory, you can make a hash for every file on it and send them outside your organization, and can encrypt it if you want on identity-based encryption.

Fortinet FortiMail can be integrated with all email security products, like Exchange and Domino. The product is also integrated with AVI systems covered under Office 365 on cloud. The tool can be used if you want to inspect the emails internally in your organization to control malicious traffic.

I don't remember the tool's framework, but for FortiMail, updates and upgrades are meant to add new features and ensure more stability.

In terms of the value provided by the product, I feel that Fortinet FortiMail provides a good value to customers as it offers good security for emails, especially if you configure it the right way and integrate it with sandbox.

I rate the solution a nine out of ten.

My company provides the tool to our clients or customers who want to control phishing and need a tool that offers DLP functionalities.

The most valuable feature of the solution is the tool's ability to prevent phishing attacks.

I haven't worked with Fortinet FortiMail competitors, but I feel whatever it does covers everything that is needed. I probably haven't had the chance to look at the products offered by Fortinet FortiMail's competitors. The tool fulfills the requirements of the client.

Fortinet FortiMail has certain shortcomings but can do well if it integrates with sandboxing features. The integration of tools with sandboxing features is something Fortinet can work on because it can change the way the product detects malicious activities. The sandboxing features are not well done in Fortinet FortiMail, making it an area of improvement.

I have experience with Fortinet FortiMail.

It is a stable solution. There is no requirement for users to have real-time access when using the tool. The product does a good job in the way the messages are delivered, and in the way, the emails are scanned.

It is a scalable solution.

My company caters to the needs of three or four customers of the solution.

My company's clients are mostly medium-sized enterprises.

Fortinet FortiMail office provides good support to users. Within the region where I operate, the support offered by Fortinet is good, especially considering the taken by the technical team to resolve issues.

The longest time taken by the support team to resolve an issue is a day, and it is mostly because the support depends on the time you raise a ticket with the technical team, or it may be based on the support contract that a user has opted for in the company. Support also depends on the contract a user has chosen, which may include support for twenty-four hours and seven days a week in a year or eight to five support.

I rate the technical support a seven out of ten.

Neutral

In the past, I haven't worked with any commercial tools similar to Fortinet FortiMail, but I know a few online tools that can be integrated into our company's systems. I chose to work with Fortinet FortiMail since it was strongly recommended by someone who had been using it.

With the right guidance, the product's initial setup phase is not that complicated. Fortinet FortiMail provides good documentation and a support team to help users.

The solution is deployed with the help of Open Virtual Appliance (OVA).

The time taken to deploy the solution depends on the organization, but generally, the deployment process takes around seven days to complete in SMEs.

The product has an immediate impact on its users after deployment because it lets them know how the attacks are being blocked, and it provides a good analysis of why a certain email or activity has been flagged. There is good feedback related to the product from users.

It is a fairly priced product, considering what it does. The product offers good value for the money users spend on it.

There are no tools similar to Fortinet FortiMail that are available because each product has its own way of functioning. Similar products will have many features that may be similar, so duplication of services is something a company wants to avoid. It is probably the better choice to select a product that is the easiest to use and offers a good support team.

I rate the overall product an eight out of ten.

The tool needs to improve its pricing policy. Also, it needs to be more user-friendly. I would want it to improve email security as well. 

I have been using the solution for two years. 

I would rate the tool's stability a nine out of ten. 

I would rate the solution's scalability an eight out of ten. 

The support takes one to two days to respond. 

Positive

The tool's distributor supported us with the deployment. The solution's deployment took around one day to complete. 

You need to pay additional fees for premium support. 

I would rate the tool a nine out of ten. This solution is good for small and medium enterprise companies. 

I have one deployment, which is a service provider, so it's working in a multi-tenancy environment. At least ten customers are being handled by this multi-tenant Fortinet FortiMail. We use Fortinet FortiMail mainly for incoming messages and also as a server.

In the first presentation we did, we were able to demonstrate to our client that 98.2% of the emails they received were spam emails. Furthermore, out of the spam emails, around 2,000 messages were found to contain viruses. Fortinet FortiMail was able to block these 2,000 virus-infected messages that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. Since we use Fortinet FortiMail as a multi-tenant environment in our cloud, we also save our customers' bandwidth as the spam emails are not downloaded.

The most valuable features of Fortinet FortiMail are its virus outbreak prevention and FortiSandbox integration.

Fortinet FortiMail should allow more flexibility with the content rules. FortiMail does not allow users to use the content itself as a matching policy attribute. This limits the flexibility of policy configuration, and we have to adapt by using specific sources to apply specific content filtering.

I have been using Fortinet FortiMail for the past seven to eight years.

I rate Fortinet FortiMail a nine out of ten for stability.

I rate Fortinet FortiMail an eight out of ten for scalability. We are expanding our customer base with Fortinet FortiMail because security is now perceived as an investment in Brazil.

Fortinet FortiMail's deployment is straightforward. It's not like plug-and-play, but if you use the default configuration, you can enable very strict security without digging into the configurations.

Since we started offering the anti-spam with FortiMail as a service, we have moved from OpEx to CapEx.

I am using the latest version of Fortinet FortiMail. Users need to understand the SMTP standards to configure Fortinet FortiMail properly. If you make mistakes in the configuration, you may allow users on the internet to use your email as an MTA. This was the mistake committed by one of our customers who tried to deploy the solution himself without proper knowledge. You must have some knowledge about the solution so you can internally configure it.

Overall, I rate Fortinet FortiMail an eight out of ten.