What is the role of an interface configured as WAN on a FortiGate device?

An interface configured as WAN (Wide Area Network) on a FortiGate device is primarily designed to connect the internal network to the external internet or other broader networks. One key aspect of this configuration is that it typically does not support a DHCP server or device detection features. This is because WAN interfaces are predominantly utilized for outbound traffic and are often configured to route traffic to and from the internet.

In a typical deployment, the WAN interface may have a static IP or may receive its address via DHCP from the Internet Service Provider (ISP). However, the device itself does not act as a DHCP server for the WAN interface; it’s mainly focused on managing the traffic that comes in from or goes out to the wider network, rather than assigning IP addresses to devices connected to that interface.

Furthermore, WAN interfaces generally do not involve device detection because that function tends to be relevant for LAN environments where devices need to be identified and managed locally. By focusing on routing and traffic management, the WAN interface prioritizes performance and efficiency over local network management features like DHCP or device detection.

This understanding is essential for network design and implementation, highlighting the different roles WAN and LAN interfaces play within FortiGate and similar network security devices.