SD-WAN on-ramp with FortiSASE directs branch user internet traffic to the FortiSASE cloud for consistent security enforcement and protection, regardless of the branch location.

ZTNA ensures that remote users can securely connect to private applications based on identity verification and security policies, without needing a traditional VPN. This access method provides strong security with least-privilege access, which is ideal for protecting private web servers and their data from unauthorized access. It also improves efficiency by dynamically verifying user identity and device posture before granting access.

In a FortiSASE environment, the Unified FortiClient agent is the critical component that fulfills the requirement for " always-on " connectivity and security for remote users.
* Persistent Encrypted Tunnels : The Unified FortiClient maintains a persistent, always-on connection to the FortiSASE infrastructure. 4 This is typically achieved through an auto-connect VPN tunnel (SSL or IPsec) that initiates as soon as the user logs into their device and has internet access.
* Continuous Security Enforcement : By staying connected to a nearby FortiSASE Point of Presence (PoP), the endpoint ensures that all traffic is inspected. This allows the organization to enforce a consistent security posture-including Web Filtering, Antivirus, and Application Control-regardless of whether the user is at home, in a coffee shop, or traveling.
* Zero-Trust Integration : Beyond simple connectivity, the unified agent supports Universal ZTNA . It continuously verifies the identity of the user and the security posture of the device before granting access to specific applications, thereby satisfying modern zero-trust security mandates.
* Comparison of Other Components :
* SD-WAN on-ramp (B) : Used primarily to integrate existing branch office SD-WAN networks with the SASE cloud for private application access.
* Secure Web Gateway (C) : While a feature of the SASE PoP, the agentless SWG deployment (using PAC files) does not provide the same level of " always-on " persistent tunnel protection as the FortiClient agent.
* Thin-branch SASE extension (D) : Focused on securing small branch locations (using FortiAP or FortiExtender) where individual client agents may not be deployed on every device.

When deploying FortiSASE agent-based clients, several features are available that are not typically available with an agentless solution. These features enhance the security and management capabilities for endpoints.
* Vulnerability Scan:
* Agent-based clients can perform vulnerability scans on endpoints to identify and remediate security weaknesses.
* This proactive approach helps to ensure that endpoints are secure and compliant with security policies.
* SSL Inspection:
* Agent-based clients can perform SSL inspection to decrypt and inspect encrypted traffic for threats.
* This feature is critical for detecting malicious activities hidden within SSL/TLS encrypted traffic.
* Web Filter:
* Web filtering is a key feature available with agent-based clients, allowing administrators to control and monitor web access.
* This feature helps enforce acceptable use policies and protect users from web-based threats.
References:
FortiOS 7.6 Administration Guide: Explains the features and benefits of deploying agent-based clients.
FortiSASE 23.2 Documentation: Details the differences between agent-based and agentless solutions and the additional features provided by agent-based deployments.

The FortiSASE software installations page shows which endpoint the software is installed on and the software vendor. This information helps identify potentially unwanted applications and track their presence across the environment. License status and usage frequency are not displayed on this page.