FortiGate 40F vs 60F: Which Fortinet Firewall Offers Better Value for UK SMEs?

Choosing the right business firewall is an important decision for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK. Businesses need reliable network security, sufficient performance for everyday operations and a solution that fits their IT budget. However, selecting a firewall based on price or advertised throughput alone can lead to unnecessary costs or performance limitations.

The Fortinet FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F are compact next-generation firewall appliances designed for business networks and branch-office environments. Both support advanced network security capabilities, VPN connectivity and Secure SD-WAN. However, they differ in interface capacity and published performance figures.

For businesses comparing these appliances, the main question is not simply which firewall is more powerful. It is whether the additional connectivity and performance of the FortiGate 60F justify the investment compared with the FortiGate 40F.

In this guide, we compare their features, benefits, advantages, disadvantages, performance specifications and licensing considerations to help UK SMEs make an informed buying decision.

What Are the FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F?

The FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F are network security appliances from Fortinet's FortiGate firewall range. They combine network traffic management with security capabilities designed to help businesses protect their internet connections, connected devices and internal resources.

Unlike a basic router that primarily directs traffic between networks, a next-generation firewall can inspect traffic, enforce security policies, identify applications and help block malicious activity when the relevant security features are enabled.

Both models can be considered for small offices, retail businesses, professional services firms and branch locations. The right choice depends on the number of connected devices, network traffic, security requirements and expected business growth.

What Is the FortiGate 40F?

The FortiGate 40F is a compact firewall designed for smaller business environments and branch deployments. It provides next-generation firewall functionality, VPN connectivity and Secure SD-WAN capabilities in a desktop form factor.

It is worth considering for organisations that need business-grade network security but do not require the additional physical network interfaces provided by the FortiGate 60F.

What Is the FortiGate 60F?

The FortiGate 60F is a higher-tier appliance in the same product generation. One of its most noticeable differences is its provision of 10 Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 interfaces, compared with five on the FortiGate 40F.

It also offers higher published performance in several categories, including raw firewall throughput, IPsec VPN throughput and threat-protection throughput.

These differences can make the FortiGate 60F a more suitable option for businesses with more demanding connectivity requirements or plans to expand their network infrastructure.

FortiGate 40F vs 60F: Key Specifications Compared

Before choosing either appliance, it is important to understand the differences in their published technical specifications.

Specification	FortiGate 40F	FortiGate 60F
Product category	Next-generation firewall	Next-generation firewall
Physical interfaces	5 x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45	10 x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45
Raw firewall throughput	Up to 5 Gbps	Up to 10 Gbps for larger packets; up to 6 Gbps for 64-byte UDP packets
IPS throughput	Up to 1 Gbps	Up to 1.4 Gbps
NGFW throughput	Up to 800 Mbps	Up to 1 Gbps
Threat-protection throughput	Up to 600 Mbps	Up to 700 Mbps
IPsec VPN throughput	Up to 4.4 Gbps	Up to 6.5 Gbps
Form factor	Desktop	Desktop
Typical consideration	Smaller networks with modest connectivity requirements	Networks needing more interfaces and additional performance headroom

Important: These are published maximum performance figures, not guaranteed real-world speeds. Results vary according to packet size, traffic patterns, configuration and enabled security services. Raw firewall throughput should not be confused with throughput when intrusion prevention, application control and malware protection are enabled.

Specifications should be checked against the manufacturer's current documentation for the exact product SKU before purchasing.

How Does Firewall Throughput Affect Your Business?

One of the most common mistakes when buying a firewall is choosing a model based solely on its headline throughput figure.

Raw firewall throughput measures how much traffic an appliance can process under specified test conditions. However, a business firewall often performs additional tasks, such as inspecting traffic for intrusions, controlling applications and identifying malware.

These additional functions can affect the throughput available in a real deployment.

Understanding Threat-Protection Throughput

Fortinet publishes threat-protection throughput figures that combine firewall processing with security functions such as intrusion prevention, application control and malware protection under its stated testing methodology.

For the FortiGate 40F, the published threat-protection figure is up to 600 Mbps. For the FortiGate 60F, it is up to 700 Mbps.

This means the 60F offers a higher published threat-protection figure, but the difference is smaller than the difference between their headline raw firewall throughput figures.

For a business with a high-speed internet connection, heavy file transfers, multiple VPN users or extensive security inspection requirements, this distinction matters.

Which Model Is Better for Faster Internet Connections?

The answer depends on the traffic the firewall must inspect, rather than the internet connection speed alone.

• FortiGate 40F: Worth evaluating for smaller networks whose expected inspected traffic fits within its performance capabilities.
• FortiGate 60F: Worth evaluating when additional interfaces, higher VPN throughput or more performance headroom are important.

Before choosing, estimate your peak traffic requirements and compare them with the appropriate performance figures for the security services you intend to use.

Key Features of the FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F

Both appliances support a range of network security and connectivity capabilities. The precise features available to your organisation depend on the appliance, FortiOS version, configuration and any required subscriptions.

1. Next-Generation Firewall Protection

Both models provide next-generation firewall capabilities that allow administrators to define rules controlling network traffic.

These rules can help restrict unwanted connections, manage access to internal resources and apply security policies to different devices or network segments.

For example, a professional services firm can create different policies for employee computers, business servers and guest devices rather than allowing every connected device unrestricted access.

2. Intrusion Prevention System

An intrusion prevention system (IPS) inspects network traffic for patterns associated with known attacks and attempts to block detected malicious activity.

IPS can help reduce exposure to certain network-based threats, particularly when systems are targeted through vulnerable services.

However, IPS is not a replacement for installing software updates, securing endpoints or managing user permissions. It should be one layer of a broader security strategy.

3. Application Control

Application control helps administrators identify and manage applications that use the business network.

For example, an organisation may want to restrict unnecessary applications, apply policies to specific traffic types or manage access to services that are not required for work.

This can improve network visibility and help businesses apply more precise security policies than basic connection filtering alone.

4. Malware and Threat Protection

Fortinet offers security services through FortiGuard that can help identify malicious files, suspicious activity and known threats.

Depending on the selected subscription and configuration, these services can provide additional protection against malware and other network-based risks.

Businesses should verify which services are included with the appliance and which require separate licensing before comparing prices.

5. IPsec VPN Connectivity

Both the FortiGate 40F and 60F support IPsec VPN functionality, which can provide encrypted connections between supported networks and devices.

This is useful for businesses that need to connect branch offices or provide secure communication between different locations over the internet.

The 60F has a higher published IPsec VPN throughput figure, which may be useful in deployments with heavier VPN traffic.

6. Secure SD-WAN

Secure SD-WAN helps organisations manage traffic across available network connections according to defined policies.

Businesses with multiple offices or multiple internet connections may use SD-WAN to manage application traffic and connectivity more effectively.

Both models support Secure SD-WAN capabilities. The practical value depends on the network design, available connections and required management features.

7. Network Segmentation and Access Policies

Network segmentation allows businesses to separate different groups of devices or systems and apply appropriate security controls between them.

For example, a retailer may want to separate payment systems, staff devices and guest Wi-Fi traffic. A professional services firm may want to restrict access to servers containing confidential client information.

Both appliances can form part of such a design when configured with suitable interfaces, VLANs and security policies.

What Are the Main Benefits for UK SMEs?

The main benefit of choosing between these appliances is the ability to match network security and connectivity requirements to the needs of the business.

Better Control Over Business Network Traffic

Both models can help administrators define which connections are permitted, inspect traffic and apply policies to supported applications.

This can help businesses reduce unnecessary exposure and maintain better control over communication between internal systems and external networks.

Support for Remote and Multi-Site Working

VPN and SD-WAN capabilities can help organisations connect remote locations and support secure communication between business networks.

This is particularly relevant to UK businesses operating several offices, shops, clinics or branch locations.

Secure connectivity should be combined with strong authentication, multi-factor authentication where supported, endpoint protection and appropriate access controls.

Room for Future Network Growth

A firewall should support not only current requirements but also reasonable future expansion.

Businesses expecting to add devices, network segments, branch connections or more demanding applications may benefit from choosing a model with sufficient capacity for anticipated workloads.

The FortiGate 60F provides more physical interfaces and higher published performance in several categories, which may offer useful flexibility as network demands increase.

Consolidated Security and Networking

Both appliances combine multiple networking and security capabilities within a single device.

This can simplify network design compared with using separate appliances for every function. However, organisations may still require dedicated endpoint protection, backup systems, identity security and other tools.

Improved Visibility and Administration

FortiGate management and monitoring capabilities can help IT administrators review network activity, maintain security rules and investigate potential problems.

Centralised management becomes particularly useful when a business operates multiple sites or needs consistent policies across its network.

FortiGate 40F: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of the FortiGate 40F

• Compact design: Its desktop form factor suits smaller offices and branch deployments.
• Five Gigabit Ethernet interfaces: Provides physical connectivity for smaller network configurations.
• Next-generation security: Supports firewall policies, intrusion prevention and other security capabilities.
• VPN and SD-WAN: Offers connectivity options for supported remote-access and branch-network designs.
• Potentially lower hardware cost: May be a cost-effective choice when the additional interfaces and performance of the 60F are unnecessary.

Disadvantages of the FortiGate 40F

• Fewer physical interfaces: Five interfaces may limit flexibility in networks requiring several directly connected segments.
• Lower published performance in some categories: Its raw firewall and IPsec VPN throughput figures are lower than those of the 60F.
• Less room for demanding workloads: Businesses with heavy inspected traffic should carefully evaluate its performance headroom.
• Additional infrastructure may be required: Some deployments may need managed switches or other network equipment to support their design.

The FortiGate 40F is worth considering when its performance and connectivity meet the business's requirements without paying for unnecessary additional capacity.

FortiGate 60F: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of the FortiGate 60F

• Ten Gigabit Ethernet interfaces: Offers more physical connectivity than the FortiGate 40F.
• Higher raw firewall throughput: Provides higher published maximum raw throughput under specified test conditions.
• Higher IPsec VPN throughput: Can be useful for deployments that process more VPN traffic.
• Higher published threat-protection throughput: Offers a modest increase over the 40F under Fortinet's stated testing methodology.
• Greater network design flexibility: The additional interfaces may simplify connecting different network segments and services.

Disadvantages of the FortiGate 60F

• Potentially higher upfront cost: The additional hardware capacity may increase the purchase price.
• Additional capacity may go unused: Smaller businesses may not benefit enough from the higher-tier model to justify the extra expense.
• Ongoing security costs still apply: Advanced security subscriptions and support arrangements must be considered separately when not included.
• Performance still depends on configuration: The additional raw throughput does not guarantee the same increase when all security services are enabled.

The FortiGate 60F is worth considering when the additional interfaces and performance provide a practical advantage for the organisation's network.

Hardware-Only vs Security Bundles: What Should Buyers Know?

One important purchasing consideration is whether the firewall is supplied as a hardware-only appliance or with a security and support bundle.

StackLink lists hardware-only versions of the FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F. A hardware-only listing should not be assumed to include every FortiGuard security service or a particular support term.

What Does Hardware-Only Mean?

Hardware-only generally means that the appliance is supplied without the additional security subscription bundle associated with a bundled product SKU.

The firewall can still provide its supported base functionality, but subscription-based services may need to be purchased separately.

Before ordering, confirm the included software, licence status, support entitlement and availability of the services required for your deployment.

What Should You Check Before Buying a Bundle?

• Which FortiGuard security services are included?
• Is FortiCare support included, and for what period?
• What is the renewal cost after the initial term?
• Does the package include the management capabilities you need?
• Are the product SKU and subscription compatible with your intended appliance?

Calculating the Total Cost of Ownership

Do not compare the initial appliance price alone. Calculate the cost of ownership over your intended deployment period.

Total cost of ownership = hardware + security subscriptions + support + installation + ongoing administration.

This approach makes it easier to compare a hardware-only appliance with a bundled option and determine which delivers better value for your organisation.

Example: Comparing Two Purchase Options

Imagine that a business is comparing a hardware-only FortiGate appliance with another option that includes a security subscription.

The hardware-only option may have a lower upfront price, but the business must add the cost of the security services it requires. The bundled option may cost more initially but include services that would otherwise need to be purchased separately.

Important Pricing Note

Always compare equivalent products, subscription terms and support coverage. Prices and availability can change, so confirm the current quotation, VAT treatment and renewal terms with the supplier before making a purchase.

Which Fortinet Firewall Offers Better Value for Different Business Needs?

There is no single model that offers the best value for every organisation. The right choice depends on how the firewall will be used.

Small Offices and Professional Services Firms

A small office with a straightforward network may find that the FortiGate 40F offers sufficient connectivity and security capabilities.

For example, a small consultancy with a limited number of network segments and moderate traffic may not need the additional physical interfaces of the 60F.

Retail Businesses and Growing Offices

A growing retail business may need separate network connections for staff devices, payment systems, guest Wi-Fi and other equipment.

The FortiGate 60F's additional interfaces may provide greater flexibility, although the final network design may still require managed switches and suitable VLAN configuration.

Businesses with Multiple Sites

Organisations connecting multiple offices should compare VPN throughput, tunnel requirements, internet bandwidth and the complexity of their network design.

The FortiGate 60F has a higher published IPsec VPN throughput figure, but the 40F may remain sufficient for smaller deployments.

Businesses Planning to Upgrade Their Internet Connection

If a business plans to increase its internet bandwidth, it should consider the performance available with its chosen security services enabled.

Buying the model with the highest headline throughput is not always necessary. The important consideration is whether the appliance can handle expected traffic while maintaining the desired security controls.

How to Choose Between the FortiGate 40F and 60F

Before making a purchase, assess these five factors.

1. Number of Physical Connections Required

Count the network connections required for internet access, internal network segments, servers and other directly connected equipment.

The 40F has five Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, while the 60F has ten. Remember that the exact role and configuration of each interface depend on your network design.

2. Expected Network Traffic

Estimate normal and peak traffic, including cloud applications, video calls, file transfers, backups and remote connections.

Compare these requirements against the manufacturer's performance figures for the specific security services you intend to enable.

3. VPN and Branch Requirements

Determine whether the firewall will support remote users, site-to-site VPN connections or multiple branches.

Consider the expected volume of encrypted traffic and whether the additional VPN performance of the 60F provides a meaningful benefit.

4. Security Subscription Requirements

List the security services your business needs, including intrusion prevention, malware protection, web filtering and support services where applicable.

Confirm licensing and renewal costs for both models so that the comparison reflects the full deployment rather than the hardware alone.

5. Future Expansion

Consider whether you expect to add users, connected devices, network segments or branch locations during the planned ownership period.

If future requirements are likely to exceed the 40F's capacity, the 60F may provide useful additional headroom. If not, the 40F may be the more economical choice.

Where Can You Buy FortiGate 40F and 60F Firewalls in the UK?

Businesses comparing Fortinet firewall models should review the specifications, security subscriptions and support options before choosing an appliance.

StackLink UK's Fortinet Firewall collection lists the FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F hardware-only appliances for businesses evaluating network security solutions.

You can review the product listings and contact the supplier to confirm availability, obtain a quotation and check which subscriptions are suitable for your requirements.

Before purchasing, verify the exact product part number, hardware condition, licensing status, included support and VAT-inclusive price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the FortiGate 40F and 60F?

The main differences are physical interface count and several published performance figures. The FortiGate 40F has five Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, while the 60F has ten. The 60F also has higher published raw firewall and IPsec VPN throughput figures.

Is the FortiGate 40F suitable for a small business?

It can be suitable for a small business whose network traffic, security requirements and interface needs fit within its capabilities. Buyers should evaluate actual workloads rather than choosing solely by the number of employees.

Is the FortiGate 60F better than the 40F?

The FortiGate 60F offers more physical interfaces and higher published performance in several categories. However, it is not automatically the better-value choice if a business does not need the additional capacity.

Does the FortiGate 40F support VPN?

Yes. The FortiGate 40F supports IPsec VPN connectivity. The supported configuration and actual performance depend on the firmware, network design and deployment requirements.

Do FortiGate 40F and 60F appliances require FortiGuard subscriptions?

Base firewall functionality and subscription-based security services are different. Services such as advanced threat protection may require an appropriate FortiGuard subscription. Confirm the licence and support terms for the exact SKU before purchasing.

Does higher firewall throughput mean better security?

No. Throughput indicates traffic-processing capacity under specified test conditions. Security also depends on the enabled services, policy configuration, updates and how the appliance is managed.

Can a FortiGate firewall protect a business from ransomware?

FortiGate security features can help detect and block certain malicious traffic and threats. However, no firewall guarantees complete protection against ransomware. Businesses should also use endpoint security, patch management, multi-factor authentication, employee training and reliable backups.

How should a business calculate the cost of a FortiGate firewall?

Include the hardware price, required security subscriptions, support, installation and ongoing administration. Compare products with equivalent licensing terms to understand their total cost of ownership.

Final Verdict: FortiGate 40F vs 60F

The FortiGate 40F and FortiGate 60F both provide business-focused network security capabilities, but they suit different connectivity and performance requirements.

The FortiGate 40F may offer better value for smaller networks that need a compact firewall, suitable security services and sufficient performance without additional interfaces they will not use.

The FortiGate 60F may offer better value for businesses that need ten Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, higher published IPsec VPN throughput or additional performance headroom for their network workloads.

The best decision comes from matching the appliance to your network requirements and comparing the total cost of ownership, including licensing and support.

Explore the Fortinet Firewall range at StackLink UK to compare available models and request a quotation for your business.

Technical References

• Fortinet FortiGate 40F Series Datasheet
• Fortinet Product Matrix
• StackLink UK Fortinet Firewall Collection

Technical specifications and product availability may change. Verify the current manufacturer's documentation and the exact product SKU before publishing purchasing claims or placing an order.