In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare technology, NHS Trusts and private healthcare providers alike are constantly seeking solutions that offer robust security, efficient network management, and cost-effectiveness. Fortinet's FortiGate next-generation firewalls (NGFW) emerge as a game-changer in this area, offering built-in SD-WAN capabilities at no additional licensing cost.
Let’s explore why FortiGate is the ideal choice for healthcare organisations looking to modernise their network infrastructure whilst maintaining tight budget controls.
Integrated SD-WAN: A Cost-Effective Revolution
One of FortiGate’s many standout features is its integrated SD-WAN functionality, which comes as standard with no extra licensing fees. This approach offers several key advantages for healthcare providers:
- Cost Savings: Unlike competitors who charge additional fees for SD-WAN capabilities, FortiGate includes this functionality out of the box, allowing healthcare organisations to redirect precious funds towards patient care.
- Simplified Licensing: With SD-WAN built in, there’s no need to navigate complex licensing structures or worry about unexpected costs as your network grows.
- Unified Security and Networking: FortiGate seamlessly blends advanced security features with SD-WAN capabilities, providing a cohesive solution for healthcare networks.

Tailored for Healthcare Needs
FortiGate’s integrated approach is particularly beneficial in the healthcare sector:
- Secure Telemedicine: Ensure high-quality, secure video consultations with optimised bandwidth management and robust encryption.
- Electronic Health Records (EHR) Protection: Safeguard sensitive patient data with FortiGate’s advanced threat protection, whilst ensuring swift access across multiple sites.
- IoT Device Security: Manage and secure the growing number of connected medical devices on your network with ease.
- Multi-site Connectivity: Efficiently connect multiple hospitals, clinics, and remote healthcare facilities under a single, secure network umbrella.

The Fortinet Security Fabric: A Holistic Approach
FortiGate is part of the Broader Fortinet Security Fabric, offering additional benefits:
- Integrated Threat Intelligence: Benefit from real-time updates on the latest healthcare-specific cyber threats.
- Seamless Integration: Easily incorporate other security tools like email filters and endpoint protection for comprehensive coverage.
- Automated Response: Quickly react to potential threats across your entire healthcare network with automated security protocols.

Partnering with Excellence: The Switchshop Advantage
When implementing FortiGate Solutions in healthcare environments, choosing the right partner is crucial. Switchshop stands out as an Expert Fortinet partner, bringing unparalleled expertise to NHS Trusts and healthcare organisations:
- Elite Technical Credentials: As one of the first UK partners to achieve Fortinet Engage Technical Partner (ETSP) status, Switchshop offers expert-level support that healthcare organisations can rely on.
- Award-Winning Excellence: Recently named Fortinet Public Sector of the Year, Switchshop’s dedication to serving healthcare and public sector organisations has earned industry-wide recognition.
- Healthcare-Specific Expertise: Our team includes former NHS engineers who understand the unique challenges and requirements of healthcare IT environments, ensuring solutions are perfectly aligned with your needs.
- Highly Qualified Team: With some of the most extensively Fortinet-trained engineers in the UK, Switchshop provides technical expertise that goes beyond standard implementation.
- Deep Healthcare Understanding: Our experience in NHS environments means we understand the critical nature of healthcare networks and the importance of maintaining continuous service while implementing new solutions.
This expertise, combined with FortiGate’s powerful capabilities, ensures your healthcare organisation receives not just a product, but a complete solution backed by trusted specialists who understand both the technology and your specific needs.
FortiGate – The Clear Choice for Healthcare Networking
In a sector where every pound saved on IT can be redirected to patient care, FortiGate’s approach of offering built-in SD-WAN capabilities without additional licensing costs is a game-changer. For NHS Trusts and private healthcare providers alike, FortiGate represents not just a networking solution, but a strategic investment in the future of healthcare delivery.
With FortiGate, healthcare organisations can:
- Reduce networking costs while enhancing capabilities.
- Ensure robust security for sensitive patient data.
- Streamline network management across multiple sites.
- Meet stringent healthcare compliance requirements.
- Scale efficiently as needs grow and evolve.

Don’t let unnecessary licensing cost drain your IT budget. Choose FortiGate and invest in a solution that offers comprehensive security, advanced SD-WAN capabilities, and unparalleled value for money, all tailored to the unique needs of healthcare providers.


