This article explains support for using FortiLink over media converters. FortiLink can be implemented through different topologies, including L2, L3, P2P, MC-LAG, and others. In all of these cases however, some customers are unsure whether FortiLink supported over media converters.
Scope
Managed FortiSwitches
Solution
To define what Media converters are: Media converters are devices intended to extend the distance covered by a network. They are also known as fiber optic media converters: devices that connect two different types of physical media, such as a twisted pair and fiber optic connection. The details of how these devices work is beyond the scope of this article.
Media converters may have different behaviors of control packet forwarding. It is therefore not possible for Fortinet to guarantee that FortiLink will work correctly when using a media converter in between. The use of certified by Fortinet SFPs will be always preferred and recommended. Be advised that Fortinet support team will ask for these devices to be removed from the network in order to further investigate and troubleshoot issues with deployment.
A list of features needed to make FortiLink work correctly:
Unfortunately, this is not available. Fortinet does not recommend the use of Media converters.
Media converter models identified to work correctly when running FortiLink:
There are none. Unless specified in FortiSwitch product documentation, these devices are not recommended.
