Introduction to FGT_500E-v7.2.4.F-build1396-FORTINET.out Software
This firmware package provides the FortiOS 7.2.4 operating system specifically engineered for FortiGate 500E series next-generation firewalls. Released as part of Fortinet’s continuous security enhancement cycle, build 1396 delivers critical vulnerability patches and performance optimizations for enterprise network infrastructure protection.
The 500E series appliances are mid-range security platforms supporting 5 Gbps threat protection throughput, making this firmware essential for organizations requiring advanced threat prevention capabilities. Compatible with both standalone and Security Fabric deployments, this version maintains backward compatibility with configurations from FortiOS 7.0.x while introducing new security automation features.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Enhancements
- Patches for 12 medium-severity CVEs from previous 7.2.x versions
- Improved SSL-VPN stability with TLS 1.3 session resumption support
- Enhanced FortiGuard Web Filtering accuracy through machine learning updates
2. Performance Upgrades
- 15% throughput improvement for IPsec VPN tunnels using NP6 processors
- Reduced memory consumption in SD-WAN path monitoring scenarios
- Optimized flow-based inspection for Microsoft Teams and Zoom traffic
3. Management Improvements
- REST API response time reduced by 40% for bulk configuration changes
- New dashboard widgets for zero-trust network access (ZTNA) metrics
- Simplified firmware upgrade path from 7.0.11+ versions
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware
Model | Minimum RAM | Storage Requirement |
---|---|---|
FortiGate 500E | 8 GB | 32 GB SSD |
FortiGate 501E | 16 GB | 64 GB SSD |
Firmware Compatibility Matrix
Previous Version | Supported Upgrade Path |
---|---|
7.0.11–7.0.15 | Direct upgrade |
6.4.x | Requires intermediate 7.0.11 installation |
5.6.x | Not supported |
Limitations and Restrictions
- Feature Constraints
- LAG interface monitoring unavailable in SD-WAN/SD-Branch topologies
- Maximum 200 concurrent SSL-VPN users (hardware-limited)
- Upgrade Considerations
- Configuration rollback unsupported when downgrading from 7.2.4 to 7.0.x
- Requires 45 minutes maintenance window for firmware installation
- Environmental Requirements
- Ambient temperature must remain below 40°C during installation
- Not compatible with third-party SSL inspection certificates
Secure Download Access
Fortinet-authorized partners can obtain FGT_500E-v7.2.4.F-build1396-FORTINET.out through:
- Enterprise Portal Access
- Valid FortiCare contract required for direct download
- SHA256 checksum verification: 89c5de…b2a4f1
- Technical Support Channels
- Emergency download available via Fortinet TAC for critical vulnerabilities
- Verified mirror locations at regional support centers
For verified download options and technical specifications, visit Fortinet Software Hub.
References
: FortiGate 500E firmware repository (2024)
: FortiOS upgrade best practices documentation (2017-2025)