In this guide, we will demonstrate how to factory reset a FortiGate firewall (specifically a 60E model). We will cover two distinct methods: using the physical reset button for a hardware reset, and using the Command Line Interface (CLI) via a console cable.
This method requires physical access to the device and a small pin (like a paperclip). It is useful if you do not know the credentials or cannot access the management interface.
Locate the reset button on the back of the device. Start by unplugging the power cable from the firewall.
Insert the pin into the reset button and hold it down. While keeping the reset button pressed, plug the power cable back in.
Keep holding the reset button. Watch the "Status" LED on the front of the device. You must wait until the status light begins to flash. This process can take a significant amount of time (several minutes on the 60E model), so be patient and do not release the button early.
Once the status light starts flashing, you can release the pin. The device will now proceed to factory reset itself. Wait until the status light turns solid green, indicating the device is ready for connection.
If you have a console cable, you can reset the device via the software interface. This is often done using a USB-to-RJ45 console cable.
Plug the RJ45 end of the console cable into the Console port of the FortiGate and the USB end into your computer.
Open Device Manager on your computer to identify which COM port the cable was assigned to (e.g., COM3).
Open a terminal program like Putty. Configure the session with the following settings:
Once connected, press Enter to see the login prompt. Log in with the default credentials:
You will be forced to create a new password upon the first login. Once logged in, execute the following command to initiate the reset:
execute factoryresetType y to confirm. The system will reboot and reset to factory defaults.