How to Pass Fortinet Certified Professional (FortiGate Security NSE 4) Exam

Introduction

For IT professionals looking to prove they are knowledgeable about managing and implementing the company’s network security solutions, Fortinet offers a variety of certifications. The purpose of these certifications is to verify a candidate’s proficiency in a range of network security topics, such as Intrusion Prevention and Detection Systems (IPS/IDS), firewalls, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM).

Start your NSE 4 journey today! IPSpecialist is a platform that stands out for its diverse Courses in Cybersecurity. IPSpecialist offers online training and career support, serving as a centralized hub for individuals seeking Cybersecurity knowledge.

This article is all about the Fortinet NSE 4 Exam. Let’s get started.

What is Fortinet?

Leading the way in network security worldwide is Fortinet. Founded in 2000, the company is publicly traded and has headquarters in Sunnyvale, California.

Many organizations, including businesses, government agencies, service providers, and academic institutions, employ Fortinet’s technologies and solutions to safeguard their networks and fend off cyberattacks. Fortinet is well-known in the market and is regarded as a pioneer in the network security sector.

Fortinet provides various training and certification programs for IT professionals who wish to show they are knowledgeable about managing and implementing the company’s network security solutions and its products and solutions.

Certificates such as the Fortinet Certified Network Security Professional (FCNSP) and Network Security Expert (NSE) aim to confirm a candidate’s proficiency in diverse aspects of network security. 

Fortinet Certifications 

The Fortinet Cybersecurity Certification Program offers a comprehensive five-tier training and certification path tailored for technical experts seeking validation of their network security capabilities. It caters to individuals keen on demonstrating their proficiency and experience in safeguarding networks.

Every tier within this program evaluates distinct levels of cybersecurity expertise, spanning from fundamental knowledge to advanced architectural skills.

Level 1: Fortinet Certified Fundamentals (FCF)

• Focus: This foundational level validates your grasp of basic cybersecurity concepts and prepares you for entry-level cybersecurity roles.

• Structure: Complete one core course (“Cybersecurity Fundamentals”) and one elective course (“Threat Detection and Analysis”, “Secure SD-WAN Essentials”, or “Zero Trust Essentials”).

• Target Audience: IT professionals, students, and career changers seeking to enter the cybersecurity field.

Level 2: Fortinet Certified Associate (FCA)

• Focus: Equips you with practical skills to configure, manage, and monitor a FortiGate firewall, the core Fortinet security appliance.

• Structure: Pass the “FortiGate Network Security 7.2” exam after completing the “FortiGate Operator” course.

• Target Audience: Network administrators, security analysts, and IT support specialists working with FortiGate devices.

Level 3: Fortinet NSE Professional

• Focus: Deepens your expertise in specific Fortinet security domains like threat protection, endpoint security, or secure wireless LAN.

• Structure: Earn one or more specialist certifications by passing the relevant exam(s) within each domain (e.g., NSE 5 – FortiSIEM, NSE 5 – FortiClient, NSE 5 -FortiManager, NSE 6 – FortiSOAR, NSE 6 – FortiAnalyzer, NSE 6 – Secure Wireless LAN).

• Target Audience: Security professionals seeking specialization in specific Fortinet security solutions.

Level 4: Fortinet NSE Specialist

• Focus: Validates your ability to design, deploy, and manage complex Fortinet security solutions across an enterprise network.

• Structure: Pass the Zero Trust Access, NSE 7 – Public Cloud Security, NSE 7 – OT Security, NSE 7 – Advanced Analytics, NSE 7 – Enterprise Firewall or NSE 8 – FortiGate Secure SD-WAN Architect exam.

• Target Audience: Experienced network security professionals and architects responsible for designing and implementing Fortinet security solutions.

Level 5: Fortinet NSE Expert

• Focus: Demonstrates mastery of advanced Fortinet security concepts and the ability to solve complex security challenges in large-scale deployments.

• Structure: Pass the ” FortiOS 7.2 Security Expert” exam, followed by one or more expert-level domain certifications like “FortiSandbox Advanced Threat Detection” or “Secure SD-WAN Security Expert”.

• Target Audience: Security architects, incident responders, and security consultants with deep expertise in Fortinet security solutions.

Benefits of Fortinet NSE Certification

Earning a Fortinet NSE certification offers several benefits, including:

• Increased Career Opportunities: Fortinet NSE Certification is highly recognized by top IT companies, which can help you land better job opportunities with higher salaries.

• Competitive Edge: With the growing demand for network security specialists, a Fortinet NSE Certification might provide you with a competitive advantage over other job seekers.

• Enhanced Knowledge and Skills: Preparing for the certification exam will help you comprehensively understand Fortinet’s cybersecurity solutions and their implementation.

• Industry Recognition: Fortinet NSE Certification is globally recognized and respected, making it a valuable asset for cybersecurity professionals.

Tips for Acing Fortinet Certified Professional (FortiGate Security NSE 4) Certification Exam

Here are some pointers to help you achieve a high mark on the NSE 4 certification exam.

1. Understand the Fortinet NSE 4 Exam Syllabus

The first and most important piece of advice is to know what subjects are covered in the NSE 4 exam. This guarantees that you study all required material and do not waste time elsewhere.

2. Start Preparation Early

Starting your Fortinet NSE 4 preparation as soon as possible is a great idea since you will have plenty of time to prepare thoroughly for the test. This is due to the fact that you can study every exam topic.

3. Attempt Fortinet NSE 4 Practice Exam

Practice exams are frequently a very good indicator of how well-prepared you are for the real exam. They are also useful in pinpointing your areas of weakness in knowledge. You will better understand your areas of weakness after taking the NSE 4 practice exam.

IPSpecialist is a great resource for anyone preparing for the Fortinet NSE 4 – FortiGate Security exam. The product version offered by IPSpecialist for the NSE 4 FortiGate Security exam includes:

• Study guide
• Practice Questions

Is the Fortinet NSE4 Certification Exam Hard?

The professional-level Fortinet NSE4 certification exam measures a candidate’s knowledge and proficiency in setting up and overseeing the company’s network security solutions. Due to this, some candidates may find the exam difficult, particularly if they need to be well-prepared or have a solid foundation in networking and security concepts.

How Much Time Does the Fortinet Certified Professional NSE4 Certification Exam Take?

The time it takes to pass the Fortinet Certified Professional NSE4 certification exam is determined by several variables, such as your level of prior knowledge and experience, the amount of study time you have available, and the exam-taking strategies you employ.

Is the Fortinet Certified Professional NSE4 Certification Worth it?

The demands of the labor market and a person’s career objectives determine the worth of the Fortinet NSE4 certification. If you are an IT professional looking to grow in your career or stand out from the competition, the NSE4 certification can help.

A candidate’s ability to implement and manage Fortinet’s network security solutions is demonstrated by the Fortinet NSE4 certification, which can be a valuable credential for IT workers in the network security industry.

IT professionals with a firm grasp of networking and security concepts and who wish to prove their proficiency in deploying and overseeing Fortinet’s network security solutions can apply for the professional-level NSE4 certification.

Conclusion

Sitting for and passing the Fortinet Network Security Expert 4 Certified Professional exam could be difficult. However, if you prepare thoroughly and use all the study materials available, you will succeed and be awarded a prestigious certification.

FAQs

1. How difficult is the Fortinet NSE 4 certification exam, and what prerequisites are essential for success?

The NSE 4 exam can be challenging due to its focus on comprehensive network security solutions. Success often requires a firm grasp of networking and security principles and prior experience in managing and implementing Fortinet’s network security solutions. Candidates with a strong foundation in these areas tend to fare better in the exam.

2. What are the advantages of obtaining the Fortinet NSE 4 certification for IT professionals?

Acquiring the Certified Professional NSE 4 exam offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it enhances your skill set by providing advanced knowledge of security and firewall principles, making you a valuable asset in the workforce. Additionally, it can open doors to better job opportunities with higher salaries, pave the way for promotions, and provide suitable job security in the constantly evolving IT industry.

3. Is the Fortinet Certified Professional NSE 4 exam hard?

The Certified Professional NSE 4 exam can be challenging. It helps to understand networking and security basics and have experience managing Fortinet’s security solutions for a better chance at success.