What is the purpose of a VDOM in a FortiGate device?

A VDOM, or Virtual Domain, in a FortiGate device serves the important function of creating virtual instances of the device's operating system that can operate independently. This allows for the segmentation of network and security policies within a single FortiGate unit. Organizations can use VDOMs to manage different customer environments, departments, or tenants without needing separate physical devices. Each VDOM has its own set of configurations, policies, and resources, making it easier to tailor security settings and network management per specific needs while maintaining the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of using a single hardware device.

By enabling this level of segmentation, FortiGate provides flexibility and scalability in network security management, allowing organizations to protect various segments of their network according to their distinct requirements.