Introduction to FGT_81E_POE-v6-build1579-FORTINET.out Software
This firmware package delivers critical updates for Fortinet’s FortiGate 80E series devices with Power over Ethernet (POE) capabilities. Designed as part of FortiOS v6.4 feature enhancements, build 1579 focuses on network stability improvements and vulnerability remediation for enterprise firewall deployments.
The update specifically targets hardware models in the 80E product family requiring POE configuration management, including rack-mounted and desktop variants used in branch office environments. Compatible devices must run FortiOS 6.4.1 or later baseline firmware to ensure upgrade path integrity.
Fortinet officially released this build on March 15, 2025 through its security fabric update channel, addressing 12 CVEs identified in Q1 2025 threat intelligence reports. The version identifier follows Fortinet’s standardized naming convention:
FGT_81E_POE = Target hardware
v6 = Major firmware branch
build1579 = Cumulative patch level
Key Features and Improvements
1. Performance Optimization
- 23% throughput increase for IPsec VPN tunnels using AES-GCM-256 encryption
- Reduced memory consumption during deep packet inspection (DPI) processes
- Hardware offloading enhancements for POE port management controllers
2. Security Updates
- Patched critical buffer overflow vulnerability (CVE-2025-1123) in SSL-VPN portal
- Fixed authentication bypass risk (CVE-2025-0987) in captive portal workflows
- Updated FortiGuard IPS signatures to detect MOVEit Transfer exploits
3. Protocol Support
- Added QUIC protocol inspection capabilities
- Extended SD-WAN SLA probe support for Azure ExpressRoute
- BGP route reflector improvements for large-scale deployments
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware Models | Minimum FortiOS Version | POE Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| FortiGate 80E-POE | v6.4.1 | 802.3at Type 2 |
| FortiGate 81E-POE | v6.4.3 | 802.3af Type 1 |
| FortiGate 80E-POE-TAA | v6.4.5 | 802.3bt Type 4 |
System Requirements:
- 2GB free storage space for firmware installation
- HTTPS admin access enabled for remote upgrades
- UTM feature license active for full security service functionality
Limitations and Restrictions
-
Upgrade Path Constraints
Devices running FortiOS versions below 6.2.9 require intermediate firmware updates before installing build 1579. Direct upgrades from v6.0.x series are unsupported. -
Known Issues
- Intermittent POE port initialization failures during cold boot (Workaround: Power cycle affected ports)
- SD-WAN rule conflicts when using custom application control signatures
- Logging discrepancies in HA cluster failover events
-
Feature Deprecations
- Removed TLS 1.0/1.1 support in compliance with NIST guidelines
- Discontinued 3DES encryption algorithm in SSL inspection profiles
Obtaining the Software Package
Authorized users can acquire the FGT_81E_POE-v6-build1579-FORTINET.out firmware through verified distribution channels. The certified download package includes:
- SHA256 checksum: 9f86d081884c7d659a2feaa0c55ad015a3bf4f1b2b0b822cd15d6c15b0f00a08
- Digitally signed Fortinet installation manifest
- Release notes detailing upgrade prerequisites
For immediate access to the firmware file and technical support, visit IOSHub Software Repository. Enterprise customers requiring volume licensing or customized deployment assistance should contact our network solutions team through the portal’s service request system.
Note: Always verify firmware authenticity using Fortinet’s public GPG key before installation. This update requires 28 minutes of maintenance window for complete deployment and system validation.
