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rouzbeha
New Member
January 24, 2026
Question

Forticare license for a new FortiAP 231g

  • January 24, 2026
  • 3 replies
  • 265 views

I have a fortiap 231g, which I purchased new and it is still on the 3 months Fremium license that comes with the device. now I want to extend the license to keep receiving firmware updates. I don't need other support options in Premium and Elite licenses. With this can I buy a Forticare Essential license or I have to buy Premium/Elite for the first year and then extend by Essential license later? I receive conflicting info from different sources, including my official Fortinet rep who says I must buy Fortinet Premium for the first year, then extend with Essential from the second year. 

Any idea what the truth is?

3 replies

Jean-Philippe_P
Staff & Editor
Staff & Editor
January 27, 2026

Hello rouzbeha, 

 

Thank you for using the Community Forum. I will seek to get you an answer or help. We will reply to this thread with an update as soon as possible. 

Jean-Philippe - Fortinet Community Team
Jean-Philippe_P
Staff & Editor
Staff & Editor
January 27, 2026

Hello,

 

We are still looking for an answer to your question.

 

We will come back to you ASAP.

Jean-Philippe - Fortinet Community Team
Jean-Philippe_P
Staff & Editor
Staff & Editor
January 28, 2026

Hello again rouzbeha,

 

I found this solution. Can you tell us if it helps, please?

 

For a new FortiAP-231G, you can choose from different FortiCare support levels based on your needs. However, the context provided does not specify whether you must purchase a FortiCare Premium or Elite license for the first year before switching to an Essential license.

 

Typically, FortiCare Essential is the base-level service and is targeted toward devices that require limited support. It is possible that your Fortinet representative is suggesting FortiCare Premium for the first year to ensure you have comprehensive support during the initial deployment and setup phase.

 

To get a definitive answer, I recommend checking directly with Fortinet's official support or consulting the Fortinet Support Portal for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding licensing requirements for your specific situation.

Jean-Philippe - Fortinet Community Team
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