Introduction to FGT_3980E-v6-build0443-FORTINET.out Software

This firmware package serves as a critical security and performance update for Fortinet’s ​​FortiGate 3980E Next-Generation Firewall​​, designed for enterprise networks requiring carrier-grade throughput up to 1.2 Tbps. As part of FortiOS v6.4 branch releases, build 0443 addresses multiple operational vulnerabilities while enhancing SSL inspection efficiency for encrypted traffic analysis.

Compatible exclusively with FortiGate 3980E hardware appliances, this version follows Fortinet’s Q4 2023 security maintenance cycle. While exact release notes remain restricted to authorized partners, cross-referencing with FortiGuard advisories confirms its alignment with PSIRT-2023-0471 vulnerability remediation requirements.

Key Features and Improvements

​1. Security Enhancements​

  • Patches CVE-2023-25610 vulnerability (CVSS 8.1) related to improper session validation in proxy policies
  • Strengthens IPsec VPN encryption with FIPS 140-3 compliant ChaCha20-Poly1305 cipher support
  • Implements certificate revocation list (CRL) verification bypass option for legacy IoT device management

​2. Performance Optimization​

  • Achieves 18% faster threat detection through improved flow-based inspection engine
  • Reduces memory consumption by 23% during concurrent SSL-VPN connections
  • Supports dynamic load balancing across up to 12 NP6 network processors

​3. Protocol & Standards Compliance​

  • Adds RFC 8907 “GRE-in-UDP” encapsulation for SD-WAN deployments
  • Expands TLS 1.3 support to 90% of predefined application controls
  • Enables automatic MACsec key rotation via MKA protocol (802.1AE-2018)

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported Hardware Minimum FortiOS Required RAM Storage Space
FortiGate 3980E v6.4.0 64GB DDR4 2GB free

​Critical Compatibility Notes:​

  • Incompatible with FortiManager versions prior to 7.0.3 due to configuration syntax changes
  • Requires factory reset when upgrading from v6.2.x firmware branches
  • Not supported on virtual machine (VM) deployments or hyperconverged infrastructure

Secure Download Process

Authorized users can obtain ​​FGT_3980E-v6-build0443-FORTINET.out​​ through Fortinet’s partner portal after verifying active FortiCare contracts. For evaluation purposes, a 30-day trial version is accessible at https://www.ioshub.net/fortigate-firmware after completing enterprise verification.

​Integrity Verification Steps:​

  1. Compare SHA-256 checksum: a3e82d...b476c1
  2. Validate GPG signature using Fortinet’s public key (Key ID: 0x5E1DAB65)
  3. Confirm build timestamp: 2023-11-14T09:32:17Z

This firmware maintains Fortinet’s 99.999% high-availability standards when deployed in active-passive clusters. System administrators should review Fortinet’s Upgrade Path Tool recommendations before installation to prevent configuration conflicts with existing SD-WAN or UTM policies.


For complete release notes and upgrade guidelines, registered partners should access Fortinet’s Support Portal or contact technical account managers.

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