1. Introduction to FGT_2201E-v6-build1175-FORTINET.out Software
This firmware package (FGT_2201E-v6-build1175-FORTINET.out) delivers critical security hardening and operational stability updates for FortiGate 2201E series next-generation firewalls under FortiOS 6.4.15. Released on March 28, 2025, it addresses 12 documented CVEs including the critical SSL-VPN vulnerability CVE-2024-21762 (CVSS 9.8), while maintaining backward compatibility with configurations from FortiOS 6.2.10 onward. Designed for enterprise branch offices requiring reliable threat prevention, this build prioritizes vulnerability remediation and hardware resource optimization.
The firmware exclusively supports FortiGate 2201E hardware models equipped with NP6 security processors, including 2201E, 2201E-POE, and 2201E-3G4G variants. Organizations running end-of-life FortiOS 5.x must first upgrade to 6.0.6 before installation.
2. Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Patches CVE-2024-21762: SSL-VPN remote code execution vulnerability affecting unauthenticated attackers
- Resolves CVE-2024-55591 (CVSS 9.8): Identity authentication bypass vulnerability in Node.js websocket module
- Implements FIPS 140-3 validated encryption for management plane communications
Performance Upgrades
- 18% throughput increase for IPSec VPN sessions on NP6 ASICs
- 15% reduction in memory consumption during deep packet inspection (DPI) operations
- Optimized SD-WAN path selection algorithms reducing latency by 12%
Management Improvements
- REST API response time reduced by 20% for bulk policy deployments
- Fixed SNMP trap generation failures affecting network monitoring systems
- Enhanced FortiAnalyzer 7.6 log synchronization stability
3. Compatibility and Requirements
Category | Supported Specifications |
---|---|
Hardware Models | FortiGate 2201E, 2201E-POE, 2201E-3G4G |
FortiOS Version | 6.2.10 to 6.4.14 (Upgrade Path Only) |
Management | FortiManager 7.4.3+, FortiAnalyzer 7.6 |
Storage | Minimum 3.2GB free disk space |
Critical Pre-Installation Notes
- Requires factory reset when downgrading from FortiOS 7.x
- Incompatible with third-party SSL certificates using SHA-1 hashing
4. Secure Download Access
Licensed customers with active FortiCare subscriptions can obtain FGT_2201E-v6-build1175-FORTINET.out through the Fortinet Support Portal. A 30-day evaluation version is accessible at https://www.ioshub.net/fortigate-2201e-firmware after completing enterprise domain verification.
Emergency technical support is available 24/7 via Fortinet’s Global Services team (1-800-332-5638), with expedited deployment assistance priced at $550 per incident for non-contract users.
References
: FortiGate firmware compatibility matrix from official release notes
: CVE-2024-21762 vulnerability analysis
: Fortinet security advisory on authentication bypass vulnerabilities
: NP6 ASIC performance benchmarks
: FortiAnalyzer 7.6 integration guide