The certification program of the Fortinet NSE Training Initiative comprises eight examination levels (NSE 1 to NSE 8), which represent different levels of competence. Each of these levels is categorized into four career-oriented certification levels: Fundamentals (NSE 1 & 2), Associate (NSE 3), Professional (NSE 4 & 5), Solution Specialist (NSE 6 & 7) and Expert (NSE 8 Written + Practical). One exam per exam level is required to achieve certification – for example, the Professional level requires passing the NSE 4 exam plus an NSE 5 exam.
Fortinet does not prescribe a fixed sequence for obtaining the certifications: If you have the required knowledge and experience, you can start at any level.
Fortinet Certified Fundamentals (FCF) - NSE 1 & 2
Fortinet Certified Associate (FCA) - NSE 3
Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) - NSE 4 & 5
The four specializations of the Fortinet Certified Professional certification validate your ability to secure networks and applications by deploying, managing and monitoring Fortinet cybersecurity products.
- Fortinet Certified Professional - Secure Networking
- Fortinet Certified Professional - SASE
- Fortinet Certified Professional - Cloud Security
- Fortinet Certified Professional - Security Operations
Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist (FCSS) - NSE 6 & 7
The four specializations of the Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist certification validate your ability to develop, manage, monitor and troubleshoot Fortinet cybersecurity solutions.
- Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist - Secure Networking
- Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist - SASE
- Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist - Cloud Security
- Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist - Security Operations
Fortinet Certified Expert (FCX) - NSE 8
The Fortinet Certified Expert in Cybersecurity certification validates your comprehensive and expert knowledge in the areas of network security design, configuration and troubleshooting for complex networks.
Fortinet audit
The written exams are usually taken in a Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center. In addition, it is also possible to take the Fortinet exams as online proctored exams at VUE. This means that it is no longer necessary to visit a VUE Test Center.