What functionality does FortiGate provide to establish secure connections between a main office and its remote branches over the internet?

FortiGate is well-known for its ability to establish secure connections over the internet using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). VPNs encrypt the data transmitted between the main office and remote branches, ensuring that sensitive information is protected from interception and unauthorized access. This secure tunnel not only safeguards data but also allows for remote access to the corporate network, enabling employees at branch locations to access internal resources as if they were connected directly to the main office.

Furthermore, VPNs are particularly beneficial for organizations that require flexible connectivity options, as they leverage existing internet infrastructure without the need for physical dedicated lines. This makes them a cost-effective solution for secure communications across various locations.

In contrast, dedicated circuits and leased lines refer to physical connections that provide consistent and reliable bandwidth, but they do not inherently provide encryption or secure access features like VPNs do. Direct access does not offer the level of security and remote functionality needed for sensitive corporate communications, making VPNs the optimal choice for secure connections between a main office and its remote branches.