FortiGate Next Generation Firewall utilizes purpose-built security processors and threat intelligence security services from FortiGuard labs to deliver top-rated protection and high performance, including encrypted traffic.
This article describes tips to verify that the modem and connection is working correctly if the external modem has difficulty connecting to a remote modem.
Scope
FortiGate.
Solution
The installed modem must be able to understand standard Hayes AT commands. This ensures proper communication and configuration between the modem and the FortiGate.
The issue may be the capability and reliability of the modem to connect to the remote modem. Fortinet has tested KeySpan and Wiretek USB-to-serial converters, versions 1.1 and 2.0 USB-to-Modem adapters.
If the modem dials but does not connect, there may be a compatibility issue between the modem and the remote modem that attempted to connect.
Disconnect the modem from the FortiGate, and try connecting using the preferred communication software, such as HyperTerminal or ProComm, and configure it to manually dial the provider.
If a driver is installed for this modem on the computer, the modem may receive an initialization AT string through the driver without the intervention and/or knowledge.
When the modem is connected to the FortiGate, this initialization string is not sent to the modem.
If this string is required to obtain a successful modem connection, configure the modem so that the AT register values are preset upon power-up.
To determine whether the modem is configured properly to connect to a remote modem.
Power-cycle the modem, and communicate with it directly using the COM port. Do not select a modem type within the serial communication software.
Establish a modem connection manually by typing the ATDTxxx command, where xxx represents the phone number.
Confirm a successful PAP PPP connection, for example, Windows Dial-Up Networking from the PC.
If the connection is successful, the modem is configured properly. Connect the modem to the FortiGate unit, and retest.
