The Network Security Expert (NSE) program features several certification levels, covering everything from foundational knowledge to expert-level mastery:
- Fortinet Certified Fundamentals (FCF) – Basic cybersecurity foundations (self-paced, free training).
- Fortinet Certified Associate (FCA) – Basic operations on FortiGate devices (entry-level, free training; exam availability may vary)
- Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) – Covers FCP specializations such as Network Security, Security Operations, and Public Cloud Security
- Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist (FCSS) – Focuses on specific advanced domains: OT Security, Security Operations, Network Security, SASE, and Public Cloud Security
- Fortinet Certified Expert (FCX) – Highest level: requires both written and practical exams for expert-level validation
Exam Pricing (as of latest Fortinet update)
According to Fortinet’s official support as of July 4, 2025, exam voucher pricing is:
- Single-exam certifications: $400 USD per exam (e.g., FCSS, NSE 7 when only one exam is needed)
- Two-exam certifications: $200 USD per exam (e.g., FCP levels, NSE 4/5/6; each written + elective)
- FCX (Expert) examinations: Written exam is $400 USD; Practical exam is $1,600 USD
To summarize:
Certification Type | Exam Count | Price per Exam | Total Cost (approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
FCF / FCA | Free / varies | Training free; exam pricing may vary | – |
FCP / NSE 4/5/6 | 2 exams | $200 each | $400 USD total |
FCSS / NSE 7 (single exam) | 1 exam | $400 | $400 USD total |
FCX (Expert) – Written + Practical | 2 exams | $400 + $1,600 | $2,000 USD total |