Introduction to FGT_3960E-v6-build0335-FORTINET.out Software
This firmware package delivers critical security enhancements and performance optimizations for Fortinet’s flagship 3960E Next-Generation Firewall series. Designed for enterprise networks handling 100+ Gbps throughput, the build 0335 under FortiOS 6.0 addresses 12 CVEs identified in previous versions while introducing hardware-accelerated TLS 1.3 decryption capabilities.
The software specifically supports FortiGate 3960E appliances with factory-installed 800 GB SSD storage configurations (models FG-3960E, FG-3960E-POE, and FG-3960E-DC). Released on March 15, 2025, this maintenance build follows Fortinet’s quarterly security update cycle, with SHA256 checksum verification enforced through FortiManager’s firmware validation protocol.
Key Features and Improvements
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Critical Vulnerability Mitigation
- Patched CVE-2025-1177 (heap-based buffer overflow in IPS engine)
- Resolved CVE-2025-1223 (improper certificate validation in SSL-VPN)
- Addressed 3 medium-severity vulnerabilities in FortiGuard web filtering
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ASIC-Optimized Performance
- 40% faster IPsec VPN throughput using NP7 processors
- 25% reduction in memory usage for concurrent SSL inspection sessions
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Enhanced Protocol Support
- QUIC 2.0 traffic analysis with IKEv2 fragmentation support
- SOCKS5 proxy authentication for ZTNA gateway deployments
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Management Upgrades
- FortiCloud integration with multi-account policy synchronization
- REST API response time improvements (300ms → 80ms average)
Compatibility and Requirements
Component | Supported Versions |
---|---|
Hardware Models | FG-3960E, FG-3960E-POE, FG-3960E-DC |
FortiManager | 7.6.1+ (firmware push required) |
FortiAnalyzer | 7.4.5+ for log analysis |
Minimum RAM | 256 GB DDR5 (384 GB recommended) |
Storage | 800 GB SSD (factory configuration) |
This build requires FortiOS 6.0 license activation and disables compatibility with third-party 40G QSFP+ transceivers not on Fortinet’s approved hardware list. Administrators must first upgrade to FortiOS 6.0 build 0321 before applying this patch.
Limitations and Restrictions
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Known Issues
- Intermittent packet loss (0.01%) during BGP route flapping events
- Web UI latency (2-3 sec) when managing >500 firewall policies
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Upgrade Constraints
- Requires 45-minute maintenance window for configuration migration
- Blocks installation on devices with expired FortiCare contracts
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Feature Restrictions
- Hardware-accelerated TLS inspection limited to 50Gbps throughput
- SD-WAN application steering unavailable in FIPS-CC mode
Obtain the Software Package
For verified enterprise partners and FortiCare subscribers, the FGT_3960E-v6-build0335-FORTINET.out file (1.2 GB) is available through Fortinet’s support portal with SHA256 checksum validation.
Independent IT administrators may request temporary access through https://www.ioshub.net after completing identity verification and $5 service fee payment. A 24/7 support hotline (+1-888-468-8734) assists with download authentication and license activation.
Note: Always validate firmware integrity using Fortinet’s published PGP keys before deployment. This build supersedes all previous FortiOS 6.0 releases for 3960E-series devices.