Troubleshooting Tip: How to check connectivity status with TFTP server for loading FortiGate image

After formatting a FortiGate and using the TFTP server to load a new image, the network adapter on the TFTP server may show as 'Network cable unplugged' and the physical interface on FortiGate will not have a lit LED.

Verify the TFTP parameter using option [R] from the boot menu:


This is the default behavior where the network adapter will show no cable plugged and the FortiGate's LED on the physical interface will be off. This is because, by design, the FortiGate will not activate the interface until it is actually needed by initiating a TFTP transfer or a ping test from the BIOS options. To verify the connectivity, follow these instructions:

• Enter the boot menu by pressing any key when the message 'Please wait for OS to boot, or press any key to display configuration menu' appears.

• After that, press [C] to configure the TFTP server.

• Then, press [N] to enter the diagnose menu.

• Finally, press [1] to ping the TFTP server. At the same time, the network adapter will also show as connected.

It can be confirmed that the TFTP is successfully uploading the image if there is '#' loading one after another as per the picture below. At the end of the transfer, the speed and 'done' is expected.