Connecting to the GUI

After completing your FortiGate's initial installation, there are two ways to connect to the GUI: using FortiExplorer or a web browser.

FortiExplorer

To connect to the GUI using FortiExplorer, connect your management computer to your FortiGate’s USB management port, using the cable that came with the unit. FortiExplorer should open automatically once the devices are connected; if it does not, open the program manually.

To connect to the GUI, go to Devices > Web-based Manager and enter your user name and password. If you have not changed the admin account’s password, use the default user name, admin, and leave the password field blank.

The GUI will now be displayed in FortiExplorer.

Web browser

The recommended minimum screen resolution for properly displaying the GUI is 1280 by 1024. Check the FortiOS Release Notes for information about browser compatibility.

In order to connect to the GUI using a web browser, an interface must be configured to allow administrative access over HTTPS or over both HTTPS and HTTP. By default, an interface has already been set up that allows HTTPS access, with the IP address 192.168.1.99.

Browse to https://192.168.1.99 and enter your user name and password. If you have not changed the admin account’s password, use the default user name, admin, and leave the password field blank.

The GUI will now be displayed in your browser.

If you wish to use a different interface to access the GUI, do the following:

1. Go to Network > Interfaces and edit the interface you wish to use for access. Take note of its assigned IP address.
2. Beside Administrative Access, select HTTPS. You can also select HTTP, although this is not recommended as the connection will be less secure.
3. Select OK.
4. Browse to the IP address using your chosen protocol.

Results

The GUI will now be displayed in your browser.

More information on features available through the GUI in FortiOS 5.4 can be found in the What's New chapter of the FortiOS™ Handbook under GUI Refresh.