FortiClient VPN: A Comprehensive Guide to Secure Remote Access

FortiClient VPN is a virtual private network (VPN) software that provides secure remote access to users. With FortiClient VPN, users can connect to a network remotely, allowing them to access resources that would otherwise be unavailable to them. FortiClient VPN is designed to be easy to use, with a simple interface that makes it easy for users to connect to the VPN.

FortiClient VPN is a powerful tool that provides users with a secure and reliable way to connect to a network remotely. It is designed to protect against a wide range of threats, including malware, viruses, and other malicious software. FortiClient VPN is equipped with advanced endpoint protection features, including vulnerability scanning, automated patching, software inventory, and app firewall. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses and organizations that need to provide their employees with secure remote access.

FortiClient VPN

Overview

FortiClient VPN is an endpoint protection software that offers secure remote access to an organization’s network. It is a robust and reliable VPN client that provides a secure and encrypted connection between a remote user and the organization’s network. FortiClient VPN is part of Fortinet’s Security Fabric, which is a comprehensive security solution that offers endpoint protection, network security, and cloud security.

What is FortiClient VPN?

FortiClient VPN is a VPN client software that enables remote users to securely access an organization’s network over the internet. It is an endpoint protection software that provides advanced threat protection, security fabric integration, and endpoint quarantine. FortiClient VPN is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.

How does FortiClient VPN work?

FortiClient VPN works by establishing a secure and encrypted connection between a remote user and an organization’s network. The VPN client software creates a secure tunnel between the remote user’s device and the organization’s network, allowing the user to access network resources securely. FortiClient VPN uses SSL and IPSec protocols to create a secure connection.

FortiClient VPN also offers a range of features that enhance the security of the remote user’s device. It provides antivirus and anti-malware protection, web filtering, and application firewall. FortiClient VPN also has a comprehensive reporting dashboard that provides visibility into the security posture of the organization’s network.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN is a reliable and robust VPN client software that offers secure remote access to an organization’s network. It provides advanced threat protection, security fabric integration, and endpoint quarantine. FortiClient VPN is easy to use and compatible with multiple operating systems.

Features

FortiClient VPN offers a wide range of features that make it a reliable and secure VPN solution for businesses of all sizes. Here are some of the key features of FortiClient VPN:

Authentication

FortiClient VPN provides strong authentication options to ensure that only authorized users can access the network. It supports two-factor authentication, certificate-based authentication, and LDAP authentication. Two-factor authentication is particularly useful for adding an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a password and a token or biometric factor.

Endpoint Management

FortiClient VPN offers comprehensive endpoint management features that allow administrators to manage endpoints from a single console. It includes features like remote deployment, patch management, and compliance checking. Remote deployment allows administrators to deploy FortiClient VPN to endpoints without having to physically visit each device. Patch management ensures that endpoints are up-to-date with the latest security patches, while compliance checking ensures that endpoints are compliant with company policies.

Traffic

FortiClient VPN provides secure and reliable access to corporate resources from anywhere in the world. It offers both SSL and IPSec VPN options, depending on the specific needs of the organization. SSL VPN is ideal for remote access, while IPSec VPN is better suited for site-to-site connections. FortiClient VPN also includes features like split-tunneling, which allows users to access both corporate and internet resources simultaneously, and traffic shaping, which ensures that critical traffic gets priority over less important traffic.

Dynamic Security Fabric Connector

FortiClient VPN integrates seamlessly with the Fortinet Security Fabric, allowing for dynamic security policies and threat intelligence sharing. This integration enables automated threat response and real-time threat detection, as well as centralized management and visibility across the entire network.

In summary, FortiClient VPN provides a comprehensive and secure VPN solution that includes strong authentication options, endpoint management features, reliable traffic options, and dynamic security fabric connector integration.

VPN Installation and Configuration

Installation and Configuration

FortiClient VPN is a powerful and secure VPN client that can be installed on various operating systems. In this section, we will discuss how to install and configure FortiClient VPN on Windows, Mac, and iOS.

FortiClient VPN for Windows

To install FortiClient VPN on Windows:

  1. Download the latest version of FortiClient VPN from the official website.
  2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
  3. Once the installation is complete, launch FortiClient VPN and click on the “Configure VPN” button to create a new VPN profile.
  4. Fill in the required fields, including the remote gateway, username, and password. You can also configure advanced settings such as split-tunneling, DNS, and proxy settings.
  5. Click “Save” to save the VPN profile and connect to the VPN server.

FortiClient VPN for Mac

To install FortiClient VPN on Mac:

  1. Download the latest version of FortiClient VPN from the official website.
  2. Open the DMG file and drag the FortiClient VPN icon to the Applications folder.
  3. Launch FortiClient VPN from the Applications folder and click on the “Configure VPN” button to create a new VPN profile.
  4. Fill in the required fields, including the remote gateway, username, and password. You can also configure advanced settings such as split-tunneling, DNS, and proxy settings.
  5. Click “Save” to save the VPN profile and connect to the VPN server.

FortiClient VPN for iOS

To install FortiClient VPN on iOS:

  1. Download and install FortiClient VPN from the App Store.
  2. Launch FortiClient VPN and click on the “Configure VPN” button to create a new VPN profile.
  3. Fill in the required fields, including the remote gateway, username, and password. You can also configure advanced settings such as split-tunneling, DNS, and proxy settings.
  4. Click “Save” to save the VPN profile and connect to the VPN server.

Overall, FortiClient VPN is a reliable and easy-to-use VPN client that can be installed and configured on various operating systems. By following the above steps, users can quickly set up and connect to a VPN server using FortiClient VPN.

FortiClient EMS

What is FortiClient EMS?

FortiClient Enterprise Management Server (EMS) is a security management solution that enables scalable and centralized management of multiple endpoints (computers). It provides efficient and effective administration of endpoints running FortiClient. With FortiClient EMS, administrators can easily configure, deploy, and manage FortiClient agents, as well as monitor and enforce policies across all endpoints from a central console.

FortiClient EMS is designed to work with FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, and FortiManager, providing a comprehensive solution for endpoint security and management. It simplifies endpoint management by providing a single console to manage all FortiClient agents, and it allows administrators to enforce policies and monitor endpoint activity in real-time.

Endpoint Visibility

FortiClient EMS provides endpoint visibility by allowing administrators to monitor endpoint activity in real-time. It provides a dashboard that displays information about all connected endpoints, including their operating system, IP address, and security status. Administrators can also view detailed logs of endpoint activity, including application usage, web browsing history, and network traffic.

Software Inventory Management

FortiClient EMS provides software inventory management by allowing administrators to view a list of all installed applications on each endpoint. This helps administrators ensure that all endpoints are running the required software, and it allows them to quickly identify and remediate any security vulnerabilities. FortiClient EMS also provides a software quarantine feature that allows administrators to isolate and remediate endpoints that are found to be running unauthorized or malicious software.

In summary, FortiClient EMS is a comprehensive solution for endpoint security and management. It provides endpoint visibility, software inventory management, and centralized policy enforcement, making it an essential tool for organizations that need to manage large numbers of endpoints. With FortiClient EMS, administrators can easily configure, deploy, and manage FortiClient agents, as well as monitor and enforce policies across all endpoints from a central console.

FortiClient VPN for Business

FortiClient VPN offers secure remote access for business users to access corporate resources from anywhere. It is a lightweight, modular client that can be easily installed on laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. FortiClient VPN offers several options for remote access, including FortiGate Administrators, SSL VPN, and IPsec.

FortiClient VPN for FortiGate Administrators

FortiClient VPN for FortiGate Administrators provides secure remote access to FortiGate devices. It allows administrators to manage and configure FortiGate devices from remote locations. FortiClient VPN for FortiGate Administrators supports two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to the remote access process.

FortiClient VPN for SSL VPN

FortiClient VPN for SSL VPN provides secure remote access to corporate resources through a web browser. It is ideal for users who need to access corporate resources from untrusted networks, such as public Wi-Fi hotspots. FortiClient VPN for SSL VPN supports multiple authentication methods, including username and password, two-factor authentication, and digital certificates.

FortiClient VPN for IPsec

FortiClient VPN for IPsec provides secure remote access to corporate resources through an IPsec VPN connection. It is ideal for users who need to access corporate resources from remote locations, such as home offices. FortiClient VPN for IPsec supports strong encryption and authentication methods, including AES-256, SHA-256, and RSA-2048.

In summary, FortiClient VPN offers secure remote access for business users to access corporate resources from anywhere. It provides several options for remote access, including FortiGate Administrators, SSL VPN, and IPsec. FortiClient VPN is a lightweight, modular client that can be easily installed on laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.

FortiClient VPN for Endpoint Protection

FortiClient VPN is a Fabric Agent that delivers protection, compliance, and secure access in a single, modular lightweight client. It is designed to provide secure remote access to corporate networks and resources from anywhere in the world. FortiClient VPN offers several features that make it a reliable and robust solution for endpoint protection.

FortiClient VPN EPP/APT Edition

FortiClient VPN EPP/APT Edition is an advanced version of FortiClient VPN that provides enhanced endpoint protection against advanced threats. It includes features such as real-time threat detection and response, advanced endpoint protection, and automated threat containment. FortiClient VPN EPP/APT Edition is ideal for organizations that require high-level endpoint protection against advanced threats.

FortiClient VPN Application Firewall

FortiClient VPN Application Firewall is a powerful feature that provides advanced protection against application-level attacks. It monitors and controls access to specific applications, ensuring that only authorized users can access them. FortiClient VPN Application Firewall also provides granular control over application traffic, allowing administrators to define policies that enforce application-level security.

FortiClient VPN Antivirus

FortiClient VPN Antivirus is a comprehensive endpoint protection solution that provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other threats. It includes features such as antivirus, anti-spyware, and anti-rootkit protection. FortiClient VPN Antivirus also includes a behavioral analysis engine that can detect and block zero-day threats.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN is a powerful and reliable solution for endpoint protection. It offers advanced features such as real-time threat detection and response, application firewall, and antivirus protection. FortiClient VPN is an ideal solution for organizations that require high-level endpoint protection against advanced threats.

Fortinet Security Fabric

What is Fortinet Security Fabric?

Fortinet Security Fabric is a security platform that provides a comprehensive and integrated approach to security. It is designed to work with Fortinet’s suite of security products, including FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, and FortiClient. The Security Fabric is based on the concept of a fabric, which is a network of interconnected devices that work together to provide security.

The Security Fabric is designed to provide visibility, control, and automation across the entire network. It allows organizations to detect and respond to threats in real-time, while also providing a seamless user experience. The Security Fabric is built on three key pillars: visibility, control, and automation.

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a security model that is designed to provide secure access to applications and data, without granting access to the entire network. It is based on the principle of least privilege, which means that users are only given access to the resources they need to do their job.

ZTNA is a key component of the Fortinet Security Fabric. It provides secure access to applications and data, regardless of where they are located. ZTNA is designed to provide a seamless user experience, while also providing strong security controls.

The Fortinet Security Fabric provides a comprehensive approach to security, with a focus on visibility, control, and automation. It is designed to work with Fortinet’s suite of security products, including FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, and FortiClient. The Security Fabric is built on the principle of least privilege, which means that users are only given access to the resources they need to do their job. ZTNA is a key component of the Security Fabric, providing secure access to applications and data, regardless of where they are located.

Compatibility

FortiClient VPN is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and offers support for client certificates. This section will explore the compatibility of FortiClient VPN with different operating systems and how it supports client certificates.

Operating Systems

FortiClient VPN is compatible with the following operating systems:

Operating SystemVersion
Windows7, 8.1, 10
macOS10.12, 10.13, 10.14, 10.15, 11.0
LinuxUbuntu 18.04, 20.04, CentOS 7, 8, Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7, 8

FortiClient VPN also supports mobile devices running iOS and Android operating systems.

FortiClient VPN’s compatibility with different operating systems ensures that users can access secure VPN connections on a variety of devices.

Client Certificate

FortiClient VPN supports client certificate authentication, which provides an additional layer of security for VPN connections. With client certificate authentication, users can authenticate themselves using a digital certificate rather than a username and password.

To use client certificate authentication with FortiClient VPN, users must obtain a digital certificate from a trusted certificate authority (CA) and install it on their device. Once the certificate is installed, FortiClient VPN will use it to authenticate the user during VPN connections.

Client certificate authentication provides a more secure method of authentication than traditional username and password authentication. With client certificate authentication, users do not need to remember their passwords, which can be easily forgotten or compromised.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and supports client certificate authentication for enhanced security. This compatibility ensures that users can access secure VPN connections on a variety of devices, and client certificate authentication provides an additional layer of security for VPN connections.

Privacy Practices

FortiClient VPN takes the privacy of its users seriously. They have implemented strict privacy practices to ensure the confidentiality of users’ data.

Data Not Collected

FortiClient VPN does not collect any personal information from its users. They do not log any user activity, including browsing history, IP addresses, or any other identifying information. All data transmitted through the VPN is encrypted, and FortiClient VPN does not have access to the encryption keys. This means that even if a third party were to gain access to the VPN server, they would not be able to access users’ data.

Disclaimer

While FortiClient VPN takes all necessary precautions to protect user privacy, they cannot guarantee complete security. Users should be aware that there is always a risk of data breaches or hacking attempts. FortiClient VPN recommends that users take all necessary steps to protect their data, including using strong passwords and keeping their software up to date.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN is committed to protecting user privacy and has implemented strict privacy practices to ensure the confidentiality of users’ data. While they cannot guarantee complete security, users can take steps to protect their data and minimize the risk of data breaches or hacking attempts.

Utilities

FortiClient VPN is a comprehensive security solution that provides various utilities to ensure secure access to corporate resources.

FortiToken

FortiToken is a two-factor authentication mechanism that adds an extra layer of security to FortiClient VPN. It generates a one-time password (OTP) that is required to access the VPN. FortiToken is available as both a hardware and software token. The hardware token is a physical device that generates the OTP, while the software token is a mobile app that can be installed on a smartphone.

Using FortiToken is highly recommended as it significantly improves the security of the VPN. It ensures that only authorized users can access the VPN, even if their login credentials are compromised.

Price

FortiClient VPN is available in both free and paid versions. The free version provides basic VPN functionality and is suitable for small businesses or home users. The paid version, on the other hand, provides advanced features such as endpoint protection, web filtering, and application firewall, and is suitable for large enterprises.

The pricing for the paid version of FortiClient VPN varies depending on the number of licenses required and the duration of the subscription. The pricing is competitive and affordable, making it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN provides various utilities such as FortiToken to ensure secure access to corporate resources. The pricing for the paid version is affordable and competitive, making it a suitable option for businesses of all sizes.

Languages

FortiClient VPN supports multiple languages, making it accessible to users from different regions. Users can easily switch between languages based on their preferences. In this section, we will discuss the two languages supported by FortiClient VPN: English and French.

English

English is the default language of FortiClient VPN. Users who prefer to use the application in English do not need to make any changes to the settings. The application will automatically launch in English.

French

FortiClient VPN also supports French language. To switch to French, users need to follow these steps:

  1. Launch FortiClient VPN.
  2. Click on the “Settings” icon in the top-right corner of the application.
  3. In the “Language” section, select “Français” from the drop-down menu.
  4. Click “Apply” to save the changes.

Once the changes are made, the application will restart in French.

It is important to note that not all features of FortiClient VPN may be available in French. Some features may only be available in English. Users should check the documentation or contact support if they have any questions or concerns.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN supports multiple languages, including English and French. Users can easily switch between languages based on their preferences.

Support

FortiClient VPN offers comprehensive support to its users. In case of any issues or queries, users can refer to the following sub-sections to get the required assistance:

Bug Fixes

FortiClient VPN regularly releases bug fixes to ensure smooth functioning and enhanced security. Users can visit the Product Downloads page to download the latest version of the software. The page also provides technical specifications and instructions on how to buy the software.

In case a user encounters any bugs while using FortiClient VPN, they can report the issue to the support team by filling out the Support Request Form on the official website. The support team will then review the issue and provide a resolution as soon as possible.

Notifications

FortiClient VPN keeps its users updated with the latest developments and notifications through various channels. Users can visit the Support Community page to access video tutorials, technical documentation, and training & certification programs. The page also provides information on how to simplify deployment, logging, reporting, and ongoing management of FortiGate Firewalls with a SaaS-based centralized management and security analytics of FortiGate Firewalls and connected access points, switches, and extenders.

Moreover, users can subscribe to the FortiClient VPN newsletter to receive regular updates on product releases, bug fixes, and security patches. The newsletter also contains tips and tricks to optimize the performance of the software.

In conclusion, FortiClient VPN provides robust support to its users through bug fixes and notifications. Users can rest assured that any issues or queries will be resolved promptly by the support team.

Conclusion

FortiClient VPN is a reliable and secure solution for remote access to corporate networks. It offers a range of features to ensure that users can connect to the network securely and easily. The solution is scalable and can be deployed on both small and large networks.

One of the key benefits of FortiClient VPN is its integration with the Fortinet Security Fabric. This allows for a comprehensive security solution that can protect the network from a range of threats. The solution also supports split DNS tunneling, which allows for more granular control over network traffic.

FortiClient VPN is also easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface. Users can connect to the network with just a few clicks, and the solution can be configured to automatically connect on startup. The solution also supports a range of devices, including Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

Overall, FortiClient VPN is a solid solution for remote access to corporate networks. It offers a range of features to ensure that users can connect securely and easily, and is backed by the comprehensive security of the Fortinet Security Fabric.