FortiAnalyzer Ordering Guide⁚ A Comprehensive Overview
This guide provides a complete overview of FortiAnalyzer ordering, covering product offerings, model selection (appliance, virtual, cloud), licensing options (perpetual, subscription, FortiFlex), and the ordering process itself. It also details essential pre-ordering considerations.
Understanding FortiAnalyzer Product Offerings
FortiAnalyzer offers a range of solutions to meet diverse security analysis needs. These include physical appliances, virtual machines (VMs), and cloud-based options. Appliances provide dedicated hardware for optimal performance and scalability, ideal for large enterprises with substantial log volumes. VMs offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness, integrating seamlessly into existing virtualized environments, suitable for smaller organizations or those prioritizing resource optimization. The cloud-based FortiAnalyzer provides a managed service, simplifying deployment and maintenance, perfect for organizations wanting a hassle-free solution. Each option comes with varying capacities and features to cater to different requirements, from basic log collection and analysis to advanced threat intelligence and reporting. Careful consideration of factors such as log volume, required reporting features, and IT infrastructure will guide your choice. The FortiAnalyzer ordering guide provides detailed specifications for each product to assist in making an informed decision.
Choosing the Right FortiAnalyzer Model⁚ Appliance, Virtual, or Cloud
Selecting the appropriate FortiAnalyzer model hinges on several key factors. FortiAnalyzer appliances offer dedicated hardware ensuring optimal performance and scalability, making them ideal for organizations with substantial log volumes and demanding reporting needs. These are typically deployed on-premises. Virtual machine (VM) deployments provide flexibility and cost-effectiveness, easily integrating into existing virtualized environments. This makes them suitable for smaller organizations or those prioritizing efficient resource allocation. Lastly, FortiAnalyzer’s cloud-based service offers a fully managed solution, simplifying deployment and maintenance. This is a perfect choice for organizations prioritizing ease of use and minimal IT overhead. Consider factors such as log volume, required reporting features, existing IT infrastructure, and budget constraints when making your decision. The FortiAnalyzer ordering guide provides detailed specifications to assist in making an informed choice aligning with your specific operational requirements and security goals.
Licensing Options⁚ Perpetual, Subscription, and FortiFlex
FortiAnalyzer offers flexible licensing options to suit diverse budgetary needs and deployment strategies. A perpetual license provides indefinite access to FortiAnalyzer functionality upon a one-time purchase. This is best suited for organizations seeking long-term cost predictability and ownership of their security infrastructure. Subscription licensing offers a recurring payment model, providing access to FortiAnalyzer features for a specified period. This is ideal for organizations preferring operational flexibility and predictable, manageable budget allocation. Lastly, the FortiFlex licensing program offers a unique approach, providing capacity-based licensing that scales according to your organization’s evolving log volume and reporting requirements. This option is beneficial for organizations experiencing fluctuating data volumes or anticipating growth in their security infrastructure. The specific pricing and terms for each licensing model are outlined in the FortiAnalyzer ordering guide, enabling you to choose the most cost-effective and suitable option for your organization’s needs.
Navigating the Ordering Process
This section details how to order FortiAnalyzer, including locating the official ordering guide, understanding order types like BYOL (Bring Your Own License), and contacting authorized resellers for pricing and availability.
Locating the FortiAnalyzer Ordering Guide
Finding the FortiAnalyzer ordering guide is crucial for a smooth purchasing process. Fortinet’s website is the primary source; navigate to their support or product pages. Look for sections dedicated to documentation, datasheets, or ordering information. The guide may be a downloadable PDF or accessible online. Alternatively, contact Fortinet’s sales team directly; they can provide the guide and assist with the ordering procedure. Resellers and distributors also often have access to the guide and can assist with order placement. Remember to specify the FortiAnalyzer version and any additional requirements when requesting the guide to ensure you receive the correct documentation. If you’re uncertain about the version or specific requirements, contacting Fortinet support will help you find the appropriate guide and avoid any delays or inaccuracies in your order. Thoroughly review the guide before placing your order to ensure it aligns perfectly with your needs.
Understanding Order Types⁚ Bring Your Own License (BYOL)
The Bring Your Own License (BYOL) model for FortiAnalyzer offers flexibility in acquiring the software. Unlike purchasing a pre-licensed appliance, BYOL allows you to procure the FortiAnalyzer hardware separately and then obtain a license from Fortinet or an authorized reseller. This approach provides greater control over your licensing costs and allows for better alignment with your budget and licensing strategy. BYOL supports perpetual, subscription, and FortiFlex licensing options, offering various choices for your deployment. Perpetual licenses provide permanent access to the software, while subscription licenses offer usage for a specific period, requiring renewal. FortiFlex provides a flexible licensing model that adapts to changing needs. Understanding the nuances of each license type is key to making an informed decision. Consult the FortiAnalyzer ordering guide for a comprehensive comparison of each licensing option, including pricing and terms. This allows for a customized solution tailored to your specific needs and budget.
Contacting Resellers and Distributors for Pricing and Availability
To obtain pricing and confirm the availability of FortiAnalyzer hardware and licenses, it’s recommended to connect with authorized Fortinet resellers or distributors in your region. These partners possess up-to-date information on pricing structures, current stock levels, and any ongoing promotions. Directly contacting a reseller often provides a more personalized experience, enabling you to discuss your specific requirements and receive tailored recommendations. They can also assist with the procurement process, providing guidance on selecting the optimal FortiAnalyzer model and licensing option to meet your needs. Leveraging their expertise helps streamline the ordering process and ensures a smooth transition to deployment. Remember to compare quotes from multiple resellers to secure the most competitive pricing and service agreements. The FortiAnalyzer ordering guide may list some authorized resellers, but it’s beneficial to conduct independent research to find a reputable partner aligned with your organizational needs.
Essential Considerations Before Ordering
Before placing your FortiAnalyzer order, carefully assess log data retention policies, capacity planning needs, integration with your existing security infrastructure, and deployment options (on-premise, cloud, hybrid).
Log Data Retention Policies and Capacity Planning
Effective log data retention is crucial for security analysis and compliance. FortiAnalyzer offers flexible retention policies, but careful planning is essential to avoid exceeding storage capacity. Consider factors such as the volume of logs generated by your network devices, the desired retention period (FortiAnalyzer’s log data analytics retention cannot exceed three months or 100 calendar days; log data retention cannot exceed twelve months or 365 calendar days), and the available storage capacity of your chosen FortiAnalyzer model. Overestimating your needs can lead to unnecessary expenses, while underestimating can result in data loss and hinder your security analysis capabilities. Utilize FortiAnalyzer’s capacity planning tools and resources to accurately determine the appropriate storage size for your specific needs. Account for future growth to avoid needing upgrades shortly after deployment. Thorough planning will ensure your FortiAnalyzer system efficiently manages log data retention and provides optimal performance.
Integration with Existing Security Infrastructure
Seamless integration with your existing security infrastructure is key for a successful FortiAnalyzer deployment. Before ordering, assess your current environment’s compatibility. Determine which security devices (FortiGates, other vendors’ devices) generate logs and if they support the necessary protocols for data transmission to FortiAnalyzer (syslog, SNMP traps, etc.). Evaluate the network bandwidth available for log transfer to prevent performance bottlenecks. Consider the impact on existing network infrastructure and any required adjustments to accommodate FortiAnalyzer’s integration. This includes firewall rules, network segmentation, and potential upgrades to network hardware. Ensure the FortiAnalyzer’s capabilities align with your existing security information and event management (SIEM) system or other log management tools. Proper planning for integration minimizes disruption and maximizes the effectiveness of FortiAnalyzer within your overall security architecture. Consult Fortinet’s documentation for detailed integration guides and best practices.
Deployment Considerations⁚ On-Premise, Cloud, or Hybrid
Choosing the right deployment model—on-premise, cloud, or hybrid—is crucial for FortiAnalyzer. On-premise deployment offers complete control and customization but requires dedicated hardware and IT resources for installation, maintenance, and updates. Cloud deployment (FortiAnalyzer Cloud) simplifies management, reduces IT overhead, and provides scalability, but may involve vendor lock-in and potential limitations on customization. A hybrid approach combines on-premise and cloud deployments, leveraging the strengths of each. Consider your organization’s IT infrastructure, expertise, budget, and security requirements when making this decision. Evaluate the level of control and flexibility needed versus the desired simplicity and cost-effectiveness. FortiAnalyzer’s scalability should align with your current and future log volume projections; Factor in potential network latency and bandwidth constraints when choosing a deployment location. Review Fortinet’s documentation for detailed deployment guides and best practices for each model to ensure a smooth and efficient implementation.