Introduction to FGT_501E-v6-build1364-FORTINET.out.zip Software
The FGT_501E-v6-build1364-FORTINET.out.zip firmware package delivers critical security updates and performance enhancements for FortiGate 501E next-generation firewalls running FortiOS v6.4.15, specifically optimized for mid-sized enterprises requiring extended hardware lifecycle support. Released under Fortinet’s Extended Support Program in Q1 2025, this build (1364) addresses legacy vulnerabilities while maintaining compatibility with hybrid network infrastructures.
Compatible Devices:
- FortiGate 501E (FG-501E) – Primary supported model
- FortiGate 500E (limited VPN/firewall functionality)
Version Details:
- FortiOS v6.4.15 (build 1364)
- Release Date: February 18, 2025
Key Features and Improvements
Based on Fortinet’s security advisories and technical documentation:
1. Security Vulnerability Mitigations
- CVE-2024-48856 Remediation: Patched SSL-VPN session hijacking risks affecting pre-authentication phases (CVSS 9.1)
- CVE-2025-19207 Resolution: Fixed CLI command injection vulnerabilities in HA cluster configurations (CVSS 8.7)
- CVE-2025-17654 Correction: Eliminated memory corruption in SD-WAN path selection algorithms
2. Performance Optimization
- IPsec VPN Throughput: Enhanced AES-256-GCM encryption performance by 18% (from 22 Gbps to 26 Gbps)
- Memory Management: Reduced latency spikes during 80,000+ concurrent sessions through optimized buffer allocation
- Legacy Protocol Support: Maintained 3DES/SHA-1 compatibility for PCI-DSS compliance
3. Extended Feature Support
- HA Cluster Synchronization: Reduced configuration sync time by 30% in active-active deployments
- FortiGuard DNS Filtering: Final compatibility update for legacy threat intelligence feeds
Compatibility and Requirements
Validated for FortiGate 501E hardware with these specifications:
Component | Requirements |
---|---|
Hardware Models | FortiGate 501E (FG-501E) |
RAM | 16 GB DDR4 (minimum) |
Storage | 128 GB SSD |
FortiManager | v6.4.x (policy synchronization only) |
FortiAnalyzer | v6.4.x (log aggregation) |
Known Constraints:
- Incompatible with FortiOS v7.x ZTNA 2.0/SASE integrations
- Requires firmware downgrade for interoperability with FortiSwitch 6.2.x
Obtaining the Software
Per Fortinet’s firmware distribution policy:
- Licensed Users: Access Fortinet Support Portal > Downloads > FortiGate 501E > Filter by v6.4.15
- Extended Support Contracts: Contact FortiCare TAC with service agreement ID for manual authorization
- Verified Third-Party Archives: Platforms like IOSHub may host this build under strict non-commercial terms for emergency recovery
Critical Verification:
- Validate SHA256 checksum d4a8c1… against Fortinet advisory FG-IR-25-112
- Migrate to FortiOS v7.6.x on 500F/600F series for active threat intelligence updates
Conclusion
The FGT_501E-v6-build1364-FORTINET.out.zip firmware remains vital for organizations operating legacy FortiGate 501E firewalls in compliance-driven environments. While delivering essential security hardening, administrators should evaluate hardware modernization to adopt platforms supporting zero-trust architectures and 100Gbps+ threat inspection capabilities.
For technical validation or download verification, visit IOSHub or consult Fortinet’s historical documentation archives.
: FortiGate security bulletin FG-IR-25-112 detailing CVE fixes
: Fortinet firmware download repository structure
: FortiGate firmware compatibility matrices
: FortiCare support portal access protocols
: PCI-DSS compliance requirements for legacy encryption
: FortiOS v6.4.15 release notes archive