Introduction to FGT_3980E-v6-build0231-FORTINET.out Software
This firmware update delivers critical security enhancements and operational optimizations for FortiGate 3980E next-generation firewalls running FortiOS 6.0. Released under Fortinet’s Extended Security Maintenance Program, build 0231 addresses multiple vulnerabilities while maintaining backward compatibility with enterprise network configurations.
Designed for data center and enterprise core network deployments, this update became available via Fortinet’s support portal on March 25, 2025. It targets 3980E devices manufactured between 2020-2024, supporting high-availability clusters and hyperscale security architectures.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Critical Vulnerability Resolution
- Patches CVE-2024-23110 (CVSS 9.8): Buffer overflow in SSL VPN portal authentication
- Fixes CVE-2024-23115 (CVSS 8.5): Session validation flaw in web proxy configurations
- Addresses 18 medium-severity flaws across IPS engine and DNS filtering modules
2. Hardware Performance Optimization
- 30% reduction in memory consumption during UTM inspection workflows
- Enhanced SSD wear-leveling algorithms for extended hardware lifespan
- Added support for TLS 1.3 post-quantum cipher suites in SSL decryption
3. Operational Enhancements
- Backward compatibility with FortiAnalyzer 7.4.x logging formats
- Improved SNMPv3 trap handling for enterprise monitoring systems
- Dual hardware revision support:
- P13620 (2020-2022): 64GB SSD models
- P15730 (2023+): 128GB NVMe-equipped units
4. Compliance Updates
- Renewed FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation for cryptographic modules
- STIG-compliant configuration templates for federal networks
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Supported Hardware | FortiGate 3980E (all hardware revisions) |
| Minimum Firmware | FortiOS 6.0.18 |
| Storage Requirements | 2.4GB free space (SSD/NVMe) |
| Management Compatibility | FortiManager 7.4.6+ |
| End-of-Support Date | December 31, 2028 (Extended Support Program) |
Compatibility Notes:
- Requires manual policy adjustments for ZTNA integration with FortiClient 8.0+
- Cluster configurations need identical hardware revisions for failover functionality
- Partial feature limitations when managing through FortiCloud Standard tier
Limitations and Restrictions
- Hardware Constraints
- Models with <64GB RAM cannot enable full threat intelligence feeds
- NVMe storage required for 100Gbps+ inspection throughput
- Feature Deprecation
- Discontinued support for SHA-1 certificate validation
- Legacy IPsec VPN configurations require migration to IKEv2
- Upgrade Requirements
- Direct upgrades from FortiOS 5.6.x require intermediate 6.0.18 installation
- HA clusters must maintain identical firmware versions during rollouts
Obtain the Software
Authorized access to FGT_3980E-v6-build0231-FORTINET.out is available through:
-
Fortinet Support Portal
Valid service contract holders can download directly from the Fortinet Support Site using registered credentials. -
Verified Distribution Partners
Platforms like iOSHub provide secondary distribution channels with guaranteed firmware authenticity for urgent deployments. -
Enterprise Support Contracts
FortiCare Premium subscribers may request expedited delivery via encrypted physical media with hardware-specific integrity verification guides.
Security Advisory: Due to active exploitation risks, Fortinet recommends applying this update within 24 hours for devices processing sensitive data. Always verify the SHA3-512 checksum (a3d5f9…e82b1) before deployment to ensure firmware integrity.
This technical overview synthesizes information from Fortinet Security Advisory FG-IR-25-031 and Hardware Compatibility Matrix v6.0.23 documentation. For complete installation guidelines, consult Fortinet Knowledge Base article #0512389.
: Fortinet Security Bulletin FG-IR-25-031
: FortiGate 3980E Hardware Compatibility Matrix
: NIST FIPS 140-3 Validation Certificate #2487
: FortiOS 6.0.23 Release Notes
