Certification Overview

The Fortinet Certified Fundamentals in Cybersecurity certification demonstrates that candidates understand the core cybersecurity concepts required for entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. To achieve this certification, candidates must complete two required online exams provided by the Fortinet Training Institute. The certification courses cover topics such as the modern cyber threat landscape and basic cybersecurity technologies.

Track Details & Exam Requirements

To obtain the Fortinet Certified Fundamentals – Cybersecurity certification, candidates must pass the following exams.

🔹 NSE 1 Exam

• Introduction to the Threat Landscape

This exam introduces the current cybersecurity environment and explains the different types of cyber threats affecting organizations today. Key topics include:

• Types of cyber threats
• Common attack methods
• Cybercrime trends
• Importance of cybersecurity awareness
• Basic risk management concepts

🔹 Second Required Exam (Choose One)

Candidates must pass one of the following exams:

• Getting Started in Cybersecurity or
•  Technical Introduction to Cybersecurity

Getting Started in Cybersecurity

• This course is recommended for non-technical professionals, including sales or management roles who want to understand cybersecurity basics.

Technical Introduction to Cybersecurity

• This course is recommended for technical professionals who plan to pursue advanced Fortinet certifications or work in cybersecurity roles.

What FCF Cybersecurity Certification Validates

With the FCF certification, professionals demonstrate the ability to:

• Understand the modern cyber threat landscape
• Identify common cybersecurity threats and attack techniques
• Apply basic cybersecurity best practices
• Understand fundamental network and application security concepts
• Recognize the importance of cybersecurity in protecting digital assets

Exam Focus Areas

The FCF Cybersecurity certification focuses on foundational cybersecurity topics including:

• Cyber threat landscape and cybercrime trends
• Common attack vectors and threat actors
• Basic cybersecurity terminology and principles
• Network security fundamentals
• Cybersecurity best practices
• Risk awareness and digital protection strategies

Validity & Recertification

Validity Period

The Fortinet Certified Fundamentals – Cybersecurity certification is valid for 2 years from the date the certification requirements are completed.

Recertification Options

To maintain an active FCF certification, candidates must renew the certification before it expires.

Option 1 – Retake the Required Exams

Candidates can renew the certification by completing:

• Introduction to the Threat Landscape exam
• One elective cybersecurity exam

Passing these exams again extends the certification validity for another 2 years.

Option 2 – Achieve Higher Fortinet Certifications

You can also extend the validity of the FCF certification by achieving higher Fortinet certifications such as:

• Fortinet Certified Associate (FCA)
• Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP)
• Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist (FCSS)
• Fortinet Certified Expert (FCX)

Higher certifications automatically renew lower-level certifications if they are still active.

Digital Badges

Fortinet provides digital badges to recognize certification achievements. You receive badges in the following situations:

• Exam Badge – Each time you pass an exam included in the FCF Cybersecurity certification track
• Certification Badge – Once you complete all requirements for the FCF Cybersecurity certification

These digital badges can be shared on professional platforms such as LinkedIn and online portfolios.

Recommended Experience

There are no formal prerequisites for the FCF Cybersecurity certification. However, Fortinet recommends:

• Basic familiarity with computers and networking concepts
• Interest in cybersecurity and digital protection
• Willingness to learn about modern cyber threats and security practices

This certification is designed for beginners entering the cybersecurity field.

Who Should Pursue FCF Cybersecurity?

The Fortinet Certified Fundamentals – Cybersecurity certification is ideal for individuals beginning their cybersecurity journey, including:

• Entry-level cybersecurity professionals
• IT support specialists
• Network administrators starting cybersecurity careers
• Students studying cybersecurity or networking
• Sales and non-technical professionals needing cybersecurity awareness

Career Benefits

Earning the Fortinet Certified Fundamentals – Cybersecurity certification offers several advantages:

• Builds a strong foundation in cybersecurity principles
• Provides awareness of modern cyber threats and attack methods
• Recognized globally by organizations using Fortinet technologies
• Helps beginners enter the cybersecurity and IT security industry
• Serves as a starting point for advanced Fortinet certifications

Fortinet Certification Path

Fortinet provides a structured certification pathway for cybersecurity professionals:

1. Fortinet Certified Fundamentals (FCF)
2. Fortinet Certified Associate (FCA)
3. Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP)
4. Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist (FCSS)
5. Fortinet Certified Expert (FCX)

The FCF level represents the foundation stage, helping candidates build essential cybersecurity knowledge before advancing to higher-level certifications.

Summary

The Fortinet Certified Fundamentals – Cybersecurity (FCF) certification validates foundational cybersecurity knowledge and awareness of the modern threat landscape. To earn the certification, candidates must pass the Introduction to the Threat Landscape exam and one elective cybersecurity exam. The certification remains valid for two years and can be renewed by retaking the exams or advancing to higher-level Fortinet certifications.