A helpful piece of hardware for advanced security integration, the FortiSwitch 108E vs FortiSwitch 108F comparison is just one of many from their lineup. What’s great about the product in general is that it works perfectly well with other Fortinet products. Aside from that, the manufacturer has a long list of Fortinet FortiSwitch models to choose from.
Making the right choice comes down to several niche considerations regarding their specs. Port capacity, PoE, and security features should all be reviewed before diving in headfirst. For this article, you’re getting a look at a FortiSwitch comparison to highlight the details you should be looking for.
The Gist of FortiSwitch 108E vs FortiSwitch 108F
It’s important to note that both of these firewall models are still available, but one has a little more time on the market than the other. Both Fortinet FortiSwitches are marketed as entry-level models, but they’re more than suitable for mid-range businesses as well.
The FortiSwitch 108F is seen as a stepping stone from the 108E that came before it. In truth, there aren’t a ton of differences between their specs. Aside from a few improvements in hardware and performance, the 108F isn’t too far off from the 108E. Regardless of their target market, both switches are hailed as excellent enterprise switches for modern network security management.
What is the FortiSwitch 108E?
Although the FortiSwitch 108E has its EOL coming up in 2027, there’s still more than enough time to get some use out of it. At the very least, you’ll be ready to make a transition before that EOL date comes around.
The truth is that both of these Fortinet network switches are very similar in their system specs. However, the PoE features, setup, and more hardware-specific details vary quite a bit.
Here’s a glance at what you can expect from the FortiSwitch 108E:
- Switching Capacity: 20 Gbps
- Packets per Second: 30 Mbps
- VLANs Supported: 4 K
- Form Factor: Desktop (1 RU rack mount)
- Power Consumption: 5.54W average with a 6.26W maximum
It’s common for hardware like this to come with an EOL date, but the 108E is still standing strong in today’s world. Nevertheless, it’s still easily overshadowed by the growing popularity of the FortiSwitch 108F.
What is the Fortinet FortiSwitch 108F?
Marketed as secure, simple, and scalable, the FortiSwitch 108F is a helpful tool for any business looking to improve their network security measures. Once again, you’ll find specs similar to this FortiSwitch model, outside of aspects like hardware, power consumption, and form factor, for example.
Take a look below, and you can see where each FortiSwitch shares similarities and their own unique differences:
- Switching Capacity: 20 Gbps
- Packets per Second: 30 Mbps
- VLANs Supported: 4 K
- Form Factor: Desktop (19-inch rack bracket)
- Power Consumption: 6.2 W average
At the end of the day, the FortiSwitch 108F focuses on hardware enhancements more than anything else. Necessary to say the least, having a modern network switch with firewall tech to match is crucial to defend against today’s cyber threats.
Detailed Comparison of the FortiSwitch 108E vs FortiSwitch 108F
Even though the actionable specs in each model are somewhat similar, it’s still helpful to stack them side by side. This helps you to know exactly what you’re dealing with and what to expect, and hone in on which model is best for your business demands.
| Specifications | FortiSwitch 108E | FortiSwitch 108F |
|---|---|---|
| Switching Capacity (Gbps) | 20 | 20 |
| Packets per Second (Mbps) | 30 | 30 |
| VLANs Supported | 4 K | 4 K |
| MAC Address Storage | 8 K | 8 K |
| Interfaces | 7x GE RJ45 1x GE/PoE-PD RJ45 2x GE SFP | 7x GE RJ45 1x GE/PoE-PD RJ45 2x GE SFP |
| Dimensions (H x D x W) | 1.5 x 6.3 x 8.7 inches | 1.18 x 4.72 x 7.09 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs | 1.36 lbs |
| Power Consumption | 5.54W (avg) / 6.26W (max) | 6.2 W (avg) |
Part of your biggest consideration here is how much time you’ll actually get with the appliance. Even if the 108E is more than enough for your current demands, are you okay with having to make a switch in two years? This doesn’t necessarily need to be a deal breaker, but the FortiSwitch 108F offers much more longevity.
The Bottom Line
Remember that Fortinet has many more switches to choose from than just these two alone. When it comes to this specific comparison, the Fortinet FortiSwitch 108F would be the better long-term option.
Considering it comes with a few hardware upgrades and isn’t facing its EOL anytime soon, you’re in safe hands with the 108F. If you’re still feeling a little lost in your search, get in touch with us to see how we can get you in front of the right Fortinet network switches.
