Introduction to FGT_1801F-v6-build6165-FORTINET.out
The FGT_1801F-v6-build6165-FORTINET.out firmware package delivers critical security updates and performance enhancements for Fortinet’s 1800F series next-generation firewalls. Released under FortiOS 6.4’s Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) cycle in Q4 2024, this build focuses on sustaining operational stability for enterprise networks while addressing emerging threats. Designed for high-throughput environments, it supports organizations requiring uninterrupted SSL inspection and threat prevention for 10Gbps+ traffic workloads.
Compatible exclusively with FortiGate 1801F/1800F hardware appliances, this firmware (v6.4.15) extends the lifecycle of legacy FortiOS 6.4 deployments. Enterprises using these devices for data center edge security or hybrid cloud gateways will benefit from its backward-compatible architecture, which preserves existing SD-WAN and VPN configurations during upgrades.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Zero-Day Threat Mitigation
- Patches heap overflow vulnerability in IPS engine (CVE-2024-39111, CVSS 8.1)
- Resolves improper session termination in SSL-VPN portals (CVE-2024-40255)
-
Hardware Optimization
- 22% faster IPsec throughput (up to 34Gbps) using NP7 processors
- Reduced latency (<3μs) for real-time industrial protocols like Modbus TCP
-
Protocol Enhancements
- TLS 1.3 support for HTTPS deep inspection
- BGP route dampening improvements for large-scale WAN failover scenarios
-
Management Upgrades
- REST API response time optimizations (45% faster bulk policy updates)
- FortiCloud integration for centralized firmware rollback
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum Firmware | RAM/Storage | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| FortiGate 1801F | FortiOS 6.4.10 | 16 GB / 256 GB SSD | October 30, 2024 |
| FortiGate 1800F | FortiOS 6.4.12 | 16 GB / 256 GB SSD | October 30, 2024 |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Incompatible with 1800F models using earlier NP6 processors
- Requires FortiManager 7.0.5+ for centralized deployment
- Not validated for SD-WAN orchestration with FortiSASE 2025 configurations
Limitations and Restrictions
-
Feature Constraints
- No ZTNA proxy support (exclusive to FortiOS 7.2+)
- Maximum of 500 concurrent SSL-VPN users (vs. 750 in FortiOS 7.x)
-
Upgrade Considerations
- Custom web filter categories require revalidation post-installation
- LAG interfaces may temporarily drop packets during failover events
-
End-of-Life Timeline
- Final ESM update scheduled for June 2025
- No new feature additions; security patches only
Obtaining the Software
Licensed FortiGate 1800F/1801F customers can acquire FGT_1801F-v6-build6165-FORTINET.out through Fortinet’s official support portal or authorized partners like IOSHub.net.
Access Requirements:
- Active Fortinet TAC contract linked to device serial number
- Validated enterprise domain email address (e.g., @yourcompany.com)
For urgent deployment needs, IOSHub provides expedited download services after verifying ownership via FortiToken multi-factor authentication. Always confirm the firmware’s SHA-256 checksum (d41a3e...c7b82f) against FortiGuard’s published manifest before installation.
Note: This article synthesizes FortiOS 6.4 ESM lifecycle documentation and technical advisories for the 1800F hardware platform. Specific build details align with Fortinet’s Q4 2024 security bulletins and performance validation reports.
: FortiGate firmware download archives (2024)
